MARK CUTLER STYLE GUIDE: Burning Up

I know it is the middle of summer and lighting a fire is probably the furthest thing from your mind, but I was going through some old images, and I just couldn't resist. A fireplace mantle is one of my favorite things. It can create a bold statement as well as warmth and a sense of harmony where there was none before. I particularly enjoy using antique pieces, like the one shown above. I think that they have such character and beautiful proportion, and almost any room can benefit from them, whether it's traditional or modern.

Here are some more of my personal favorites:

There are also some wonderful reproduction cast stone or hand carved limestone fireplace mantles which can be sourced from Exquisite Surfaces, Stone Yard and Francois & Company which have the air of an antique without the price tag. These can be made in many different stone finishes and sizes, thus multiplying your choices ad infinitum!

Mark Cutler
Interior Designer,
MarkCutlerDesign.com