A great fireplace needs more than flame: it needs the right mantel and surround to frame it.
These elements define the aesthetic, set the proportions, and make the fireplace look intentional in your home.
This guide walks you through materials, sizing, styles, and installation so you can confidently choose the perfect mantel and surround for your space.
The mantel is the horizontal shelf or architectural detail above the firebox. It can be:
The surround is the material that frames the firebox opening. It may extend several inches or cover the entire wall, depending on style.
Explore diverse fireplace surround materials to find the best fit for your aesthetic.
Common surround materials include:
The surround establishes the “architecture,” and the mantel adds a finishing line.
Some modern fireplaces skip the mantel entirely for a more minimalist look.
Key components you may see:
Before design decisions, match your mantel and surround to your fireplace type to avoid safety issues.
Best for: modern builds, media walls, apartments.
The Gloria II 78" Seamless Push-in Electric Fireplace allows for a seamless integration with modern surrounds due to its sleek push-in design.
Best for: high-performance heating, custom home builds.
Best for: traditional homes, rustic styles, large existing hearths.
For a robust hearth setup, the Enerzone Destination 2.7 Wood Insert demands a sturdy, code-compliant surround.
Best for: retrofitting old inefficient fireplaces.
Each material changes maintenance, cost, style, and heat resistance. Here are the key options:
Pros: Warm, natural, easy to mount, many styles
Cons: Requires proper clearance; can warp with heat
Best for: Farmhouse, rustic, transitional, classic interiors
Pros: Heat-resistant, premium look, durable
Cons: Can be expensive or heavy
Best for: Luxury, classic, modern, European-style homes
Pros: Affordable, design-flexible, great for color or pattern
Cons: Grout maintenance; can look busy if overdone
Best for: Modern eclectic, transitional, craftsman
Pros: Seamless minimalist aesthetic
Cons: Requires professional application for durability
Best for: Minimalist, contemporary, Scandinavian designs
Pros: Industrial/modern look, durable, fire-safe
Cons: Heavy; may require reinforcement
Best for: Loft-style, modern industrial, architectural homes
Pros: Sleek, dramatic, heat-safe
Cons: Shows fingerprints; can scratch
Best for: Ultra-modern or industrial interiors
Browse through Architectural Digest's surround ideas for high-end inspiration.
The Dimplex IgniteXL Bold 60" Smart Linear Electric Fireplace fits seamlessly into luxury contemporary designs with its clean lines and customizable media.
Sizing is one of the most crucial steps.
Fireplaces—especially gas and wood—have manufacturer-required spacing between:
Electric units have the most flexibility, but wood and gas units must strictly follow their manuals.
See our detailed guide on mantels and height rules.
If placing a TV above the fireplace, read this guide on mounting a TV above a fireplace safely.
Can you put a TV above a fireplace?
Yes, but check heat output and follow clearance rules. Electric fireplaces are safest.
Do wood mantels need to be a certain distance away?
Yes—always follow manufacturer clearance charts based on mantel depth.
Do electric fireplaces require non-combustible surrounds?
No, but using them can elevate style.
How do I clean stone, tile, or plaster surrounds?
Use mild cleaners; avoid acids on natural stone; dust plaster regularly.
Choosing the right mantel and surround is a mix of design, safety, and proportion. Start by identifying your fireplace type, then choose materials that match your style and meet clearance rules.
Measure carefully, consider long-term durability, and invest in a look that will feel timeless in your home.
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