The term "mantel" refers to the entire decorative surround and not just the shelf. In historic homes, the quality of the mantel indicated the homeowner's status, and its form was a showpiece for the architect's personal art and the handiwork of many local craftsmen.

Today, it remains as the social and aesthetic focus of any room it occupies. Replacing an old, skimpy mantel or embellishing a bland brick surround not only transforms the appearance of your fireplace, it can change the architecture of the entire room!