The fireplace holds a deep and symbolic meaning for the human faculty. From the time humans first utilized fire in rudimentary means, such element has then become the center for many tribes and many 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.

Setting aside the changes in some of the structures of the fireplace, two of its primary parts remain intact over the years""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. However, as electric fireplace is now considered as the direct and safest alternative for the traditional hearth, surround and mantels are now also available for 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.

Similar to the ones used for traditional hearth, you could also unleash your creativity through your electric fireplace surround. Though this fireplace often comes with its own surround, you could still change the way how it looks using your own design preference as a guide. Since an electric fireplace does not produce real flames, a wooden surround would definitely provide you more opportunity for decoration as it could be carved in differing shapes that would complement the interior design of your room. Some materials that you could also take advantage of other than wood may include plaster, cast iron, marble, brick and limestone; just remember that some materials offer more advantages than the others so make sure that you'll pick the materials that you think would highlight your fireplace.

Along with the surround, electric fireplace mantels profoundly affect the appearance of your fire feature. Throughout history, mantels are powerful symbols of domestic life that have since received the special attention of fireplace designers, both traditional and electric. Similar to your surround, the mantels of your fireplace could also be designed with the use of different materials ranging from wood and metal, to natural stone and synthetic items. The most important thing that you have to consider when creating or choosing the designs of your mantels is how you could put your emotions into it in order to make it the best focal point inside your room.

Among the most notable designs for electric fireplace mantels today are the period mantels such as colonial, Gregorian, Victorian and federal mantels. 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, there are no limits as to what you could actually do with the design of the surround and mantels of your electric fireplace. Overseeing the design aspects of your fireplace would not only warrant you a unique fire feature but would also pave way for you to exercise your creativity and a means for you to discover yourself in depth.