Outdoor Fire Mantelpiece Ideas

Earth, Wind and Fire

• Focus on the elements of nature to create a standout fireplace mantel with objects that symbolize earth, wind and fire. Clay pots are natural choices. You can fill them with flowers and foliage, then swap out your plantings as the seasons change. Use a rustic weather vane with a rooster or directional arrows for the centerpiece, and to flow with the changes and shifts of the wind. The fireplace itself will represent fire. Flanked above with the earth and wind objects you'll have a cohesive theme.

Fire and Rain

• Combining fire and water is a unique way to add character and make your fireplace mantel distinctive. One large water feature, centered and placed right above the fire, will make a dramatic statement. But you don’t have to go all-out and retrofit your fireplace with a water feature. A ready-made water feature that runs by electricity is all it takes. The key is to select a large unit that will make a statement, and not just a small desktop size unit. The contrast between the water falling and the fireplace flames rising will give your entire fireplace a look that's sure to captivate all.

Iron Chef

• If you have the complete outdoor setup, including an exterior kitchen, tie in the fireplace and the kitchen by decorating your mantel with an "iron chef” theme. There are several ways to go about creating an iron chef display. Drill holes in the smokestack's surface and attach a semicircle shaped iron cookware rack. Use the rack to hang your favorite barbecue utensils along with cast iron skillets of various sizes. Scour flea markets and vintage shops for antique ladles and other cast iron cooking utensils. You can even spray paint items black and coat them with a sealant to prevent them from rusting – or allow them to rust to enhance the authenticity of your iron chef theme.

Mantel of Modern Metal Art

• One large statement piece is often all it takes to turn a mantelpiece from a ho-hum, flat long surface into an attention magnet. Home décor stores are good sources for metal artwork. Don’t pass over items that look like they’ll rust or can’t take exposure to outdoor elements. As long as the item is made of metal, you can protect it and it will endure. Take the item to a home improvement store and select a spray-on or brush-on protective sealant to cover your find, then decorate your mantel with a piece of modern metal art.