The popularity of oak for mantel design is not, in truth, an accident. The wood has a density that responds to temperature fluctuations without significant change, a factor that becomes more important even with more modern forms of fireplace, such as gas or electric, that still burn at a fraction of the temperature of a traditional grate. The wood grain is also sufficiently pronounced to remain interesting as time passes, avoiding a tired look in favour of a more nuanced appearance.
English oak and European oak behave slightly differently over time, though both remain effective options for a mantel design. English oak, for example, has a tendency to darken more noticeably over time, progressing from a light honey colour to a more amber or brown hue. European oak, on the other hand, retains a lighter colour for longer, though once again, natural light will have a significant impact on this.
Reclaimed oak has emerged as a highly popular option for mantel designs in recent times. Beams reclaimed from structures like barns, factories, or old buildings carry an undeniable sense of history and legacy, like the patina, old mortise marks, and colour variations resulting from decades of exposure to the elements. This appeal, in a sense, is unearned, and that might be one of the main reasons why reclaimed materials have caught the eye of many, especially for projects that require an authentic look or wish to steer clear of the new look entirely.
The flip side of reclaimed materials, however, lies in the lack of uniformity. Each beam carries a unique set of checks, nail holes, and other cosmetic or functional issues. While these can be considered positive aspects, there might be issues in procuring large quantities of specific sizes.
The Right Proportions
The proportions of the mantel play an important role in determining the success of the design in the context of the space. The depth of the mantel, in particular, plays an important role. If the mantel projects too far out, it ends up intruding awkwardly into the space, affecting the placement of furniture. If the projection is too low, it ends up appearing uncertain or lacking in purpose. For most rooms, with standard ceiling heights, a projection of between 150-200mm works well, though in period homes with higher ceilings, a more projecting mantel might not appear out of place.
The length of the mantel normally depends on the chimney breast, but extending it slightly beyond the breast on either side often works better. The extension, however, depends entirely on the proportions of the space, the height of the ceiling, and other architectural elements in the space. There is no formula or rule applicable in all cases.
Thickness is also important. A 100mm thick beam is very different to one which is 200mm thick, even if it is the same length and projection. Thicker mantels will have greater visual weight, which may be exactly what the room needs, or completely wrong. It is necessary to consider the room, not the standard.
Fixing Methods and The Variable Movement
Mantels are attached to the wall through various methods depending on the wall type and the weight of the beam. The traditional approach is to build the mantels into the wall during the building process, although this requires forward planning. More common is the concealed bracket or steel plates screwed into the wall structure, not visible from the front but strong enough to hold the weight.
Oak is flexible, adapting to the humidity changes with the seasons. The longer the beam, the greater the movement, with some beams moving by several millimetres during the year. The fixing must accommodate this movement rather than restrict the beam, as this will cause splits and warping. Fixing the mantels must provide free movement while still securely attached to the wall. The natural movement of the timber must not be fought, as this will inevitably cause problems.
Where They Work Best
Its plain now to see that oak mantels have moved beyond the original purpose as a functional piece. They now top radiators, act as shelving units, or simply serve as design elements to break up the horizontal line of an otherwise boring wall. In commercial environments, particularly in restaurants and hotels, they help break up what might otherwise be a clinical feel to the space.
The best-placed mantels are those where the space seems to have been designed with the mantel in mind, rather than an afterthought, an addition to the space.