Mantel Surround/Awkward Fireplace

Sep 18, 2012, 08:32 AM

brooks_sea

I am planning to build a fireplace surround/mantel in my family room, and am looking for some advice on balance and incorporating an "obstacle". The fireplace itself is not centered between the two adjacent windows, and to further complicate matters, there is a light switch on the wall to the right of it that operates the fireplace (gas) and an overhead light. If I avoid the light switch and place the "leg" of the mantel to the side, it would need to go all the way to the edge of the window, and even then the scale may not be sufficient to balance the width of the mantel which would extend window-to-window with that design.

My issues are:
1) Any suggestions for the light switch? Is there any product or option that I could hide it someway? Do I incorporate it directly on the leg of the mantel somehow?

3) Does going the full width between the windows make sense? It feels awkward to me and is not my first choice. Please consider that the room is large (20 X 23 X 9) so it may be okay?

I've attached a diagram as reference. Any thoughts or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Sep 18, 2012, 11:26 AM

Sparky

It would probably take an electrician but why not move the light switches to get them out of the way?

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Any advice given here is general in nature and is not necessarily valid for your given area. If in doubt check with your local codes enforcement department for what is required when doing electrical, plumbing or structural work on your house. Permits may or may not be required in your area and home owners may not be able to DIY some tasks. I have no way of knowing if you have the skills needed to complete the tasks you are asking about, when in doubt seek professional assistance.

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Sep 18, 2012, 03:34 PM

brooks_sea

I agree that's what needs to be done (see item 1). Since to go higher would put it above the mantel shelf (approx. 60" off floor), the next logical place is on the mantel leg somewhere. It wouldn't make sense to put the switch on the other side of the room.

Since my posting, I was able to find a switch that will combine all three switches into a single-gang plate, which at minimum makes the intrusion smaller. This may even allow me to put the switch plate on the side of the leg if I design the mantel to extend out from the wall a few inches. I'm going to measure/mock tonight!

Sep 18, 2012, 03:47 PM

redoverfarm

Given that there is probably a stud bay on which the light switch is located and most likely continues up to the ceiling I would probably just relocate the switch above the mantle. Yes if there is three individual switches you should try to incorporate them into a three gang switch. It can be easily hidden with a decoration sitting onthe mantle shelf.