The fireplace holds deep symbolic meaning for the human psyche. Ever since humans first used fire in rudimentary ways, this element has evolved to become the center of tribes and various familial activities. Eventually, the fireplace emerged to serve as the primary source of light, heat, security and food. Currently, with the innovations in technology, from the once wood and gas burning fireplace, such fire feature can now be bought in the form of a portable flame electric fireplace.

Despite the significant changes in the structure of the fireplace, two of its most important parts never ceased existing""the surround and mantels. Fireplace surround and mantels are what primarily borders the fireplace and makes it appear more appealing rather than just a big black hole on the wall. Such parts are commonly seen in traditional wood and gas burning fireplace. But, as the electric fireplace has become the direct substitute for traditional hearth, these features are also made to befit this type of fireplace.

As most of us are aware of, a fireplace surround serves as the shield for soot and heat emitted by the fireplace that could actually damage walls. So, you're probably wondering, why would I need a surround if I am using an electric fireplace that does not produce damaging soot and heat? The answer lies on the design capability of the surround; a fireplace without this feature certainly lacks appeal. A surround could definitely make profound appearance changes on your electric fireplace and could also create a modern statement for the entire room.

Parallel to traditional fireplace, your electric fireplace surround could become the canvass of your creativity. Although this type of fireplace is already equipped with its own surround, you could easily make changes to this by using your own design idea. Considering that an electric fireplace does not emit real flames, a wooden surround would give you more opportunity to decorate as it can be carved into different shapes that you think would be appropriate to maintain the design continuity of the room where the fire feature is placed. Aside from wood, other materials that you could use to facilitate changes on your surround include plaster, cast iron, marble, brick and limestone; just remember though that some materials are more efficient to use than the others so make sure that you settle for the ones that would last for long.

Alongside the surround is the electric fireplace mantels, which also plays an integral role in enhancing the appearance of your fire feature. Throughout history, mantels are symbols of domestic life that have captured the interest of both homeowners and fireplace designers. Just like your surround, the mantels of your fireplace could be created and finished using a wide variety of materials like wood, metal and natural stones among others. The most important thing that you have to think about when you are designing the mantels of your fireplace is that it should reflect what you think inspires you about the space where your fireplace is positioned.

Noteworthy designs of electric fireplace mantels today are the ones known as period mantels such as colonial, Gregorian, Victorian and federal. To add a more personal touch to your mantels, you could simply integrate designs base from the places that you wish to visit or you have already visited, or the those things that simply makes you happy; the main idea is for you to be able to create an artwork that signifies who you are. Basically, you could go at almost any lengths when it comes to the design of the surround and mantels of your electric fireplace. Going an extra mile in the design aspect would not only give you a unique fireplace but would also permit you to become more creative.

As far as decorative matters are concerned, perhaps there is nothing more important than the fireplace surround as well as mantels. Regardless if you are using traditional wood or gas burning fireplace or flame electric fireplace that uses electric fireplace mantels, changing the two aforementioned elements could instantly add your desired exclusiveness that would define the general appearance not only of your fire feature but also the room where it is placed.