Heavy Shelf Limestone Mantel in a Vaulted Room

Photographed at the edge of a vaulted evening room, this mantel shows its bulk rather than its detail. The shelf is a thick moulded slab that projects well clear of the wall, the frieze below is left plain and panelled, and the legs are broad curved consoles that sweep down to the hearth. A glazed fire screen sits inside the opening. Lamplight rakes across the limestone and picks out how warm and open grained the surface is. It suits living rooms with beamed or vaulted ceilings, ranch houses, lodges and relaxed estate interiors.