Oldworld Stoneworks Blog

Easter Mantel Decoration Ideas for Your Stone Fireplace Mantel

Spring isn’t the only thing springing about. The Easter bunny is about to make an annual visit to your home, and it’s time for your family to celebrate with fun, festive decorations!

And what is the best place to show off your holiday excitement? A gorgeous stone fireplace mantel. Here are some suggestions to help you decorate your mantel and use it to display your Easter spirit!

Springtime Flowers and Other Natural Elements

In the spring, the most beautiful decorations are growing right outside your front door! Springtime blooms like daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths are synonymous with Easter time.

Even if they aren’t sitting outside ready to be picked, you can buy flowers from your local store and display them in a colorful vase on your stone fireplace mantel.

But getting creative with nature doesn’t stop with florals. You can incorporate other natural touches like branches, bird’s nests, or pinecones for a more grown-up celebration of spring and Easter.

DIY Projects and Fun Crafts

One of the reasons families love Easter is because it’s the perfect excuse to enjoy some arts and crafts! There are always the classic painted Easter eggs you can gently arrange on your fireplace mantel or put in a decorative basket. But don’t let the inspiration stop there. You can also make:

  • An easter egg tree (arranged branches with easter eggs hanging from them)
  • Carrot garlands
  • Fabric flowers
  • Coffee filter flowers

Get in touch with your artistic side, and let the spirit of the season guide you! Anything with eggs, bunnies, or pastels is fair game, so get creative with what you have at home and involve the whole family!

Classic Easter Decor

Sometimes, nothing beats the classics. Many homeowners already have the standard Easter decorations like baskets and bunny figurines. These decorations look great and can evoke a playful sense of nostalgia. And it’s a good time to grab essentials like candy dishes for jelly beans if you don’t already have them.

But the best-kept secret to a stunning fireplace mantel? Combining classic Easter decorations, DIY projects, and natural touches for a well-rounded approach to your spring aesthetic!

The Power of a Stone Fireplace Mantel

How does having a stone fireplace mantel elevate your Easter decorations? Stone goes with absolutely everything but particularly compliments rustic or natural decorations. Flowers on a stone mantel give your space an instant burst of charm that you can only get from more earthy combinations like this.

Stone mantels are also a permanent fixture — there’s no putting it away at the end of the holiday and pulling it back out of storage. So not only is a stone fireplace mantel the perfect accompaniment to your Easter decorations every year, but it’s also the perfect place to display your favorite decor all year round!

An unexpected but welcome benefit of stone fireplaces is how sturdy they are. There are some obvious benefits to this as a homeowner, but its trademark durability also makes it the ideal place to showcase decorations of all sizes and weights.

A Holiday Most Magnificent With Old World Stoneworks Fireplace Mantels

With these Easter mantel decoration ideas, you have an excellent baseline for creating an exciting and visually striking centerpiece for your mantel. But those with stone fireplace mantels have the added benefit of a durable place to show off their Easter spirit, which adds to the overall appeal.

Do you have the space to display these decorations however you’d like? Old World Stoneworks is here to help you find the fireplace mantel of your dreams, and we’re certain it’s with us. Contact us today to learn more and explore your mantel options!

Fireplace Mantels

How to Remove a Fireplace Mantel: A Step-by-Step Guide

Many homeowners are interested in updating or replacing their fireplace mantels to enhance the aesthetic appeal of their home’s interior. But knowing how to remove a fireplace mantel or surround in order to replace it can be tricky, if you’re not sure what you’re doing.

The guide below gives tips on how to remove a fireplace mantel properly and safely, courtesy of Old World Stoneworks, a leading provider of high-quality cast stone mantels and surrounds.

Preparing for Removal: Safety and Tools Required

Before you start, be sure you have the right tools you need to remove and replace a surround. Here’s what you should have on hand:

  • A plastic sheet or tarp
  • A fireplace covering
  • A cordless power drill
  • A masonry chisel and hammer
  • A pry bar
  • A rubber hammer
  • A putty knife
  • A Phillips head screwdriver

Depending on your situation, you may not use all of these tools, but it’s still wise to have them at your disposal to make things go as smoothly as possible.

If you’re working on projects like mantel removals and replacements, protect yourself with the correct safety gear. Wear safety goggles, gloves, and a mask to protect your hands and keep debris out of your eyes, face and lungs.

Use the tarp to protect the floor and anything else in the work area from debris as well.

Essential Steps for Removing Fireplace Mantels

With the right tools in place, your next step is to identify the material you’re working with, as that will determine how you approach your fireplace surround removal. Some materials, like wood, are relatively easy to remove, while others, like metal, require a greater effort. Specific mantel materials are covered below, but some of the steps will be the same regardless of the composition of your mantel.

Removing a simple mantel shelf is relatively easy. Removing a surround mantel, which encases the fireplace on its top and both sides, will be more complicated. Whatever the mantel is attached to will also influence how challenging it will be to remove; mantels attached to brick may be more difficult to work with while those attached to drywall are often much simpler to remove.

By now, you’re ready to start removing your fireplace mantel. If you have a shelf mantel, take these steps:

  • Loosen the corbel braces (if present)
  • Remove the fasteners with a power drill or screwdriver
  • Remove the braces
  • Gently loosen the mantel and remove it

Those with surround mantels will follow a similar process, with some notable differences:

  • Loosen the sides of the mantel with a pry bar and mallet
  • Remove the fasteners with a screwdriver or power drill
  • Gently loosen and remove the mantel

How to Remove a Mantel from a Brick Fireplace

Need to know how to remove a mantel from a brick fireplace? Doing so will require the same heavy-duty protective gear along with a power drill and a pry bar. Start by removing the fasteners to the attachments, if any, with your power drill. Then, use the pry bar, tapping it with a hammer, to separate the mantel from the brick. Gently lift the mantel and remove any adhesive using a putty knife.

How to Remove a Stone Fireplace Surround

Want to know how to remove a stone fireplace surround? The steps are somewhat similar to those required to remove a mantel from a brick fireplace. You’ll still want your power drill handy, but you’ll instead drill holes directly into the stone. Then, you’ll use a hammer and chisel to chip it off in pieces. It’s a dustier, messier process, so protective gear is once again vital. Additionally, take extra caution with the wall behind the fireplace mantel, as stone surround removal methods can easily damage it.

Selecting Your New Fireplace Mantel

Of course, before you replace your fireplace surround, you will want to determine what you will replace it with. There are several elements to consider when selecting your new mantel.

Of course, aesthetic appeal is probably the primary consideration. The cast stone mantel options available at Old World Stoneworks come in a wide variety, including more than 40 mantel designs that can accompany any decor style, from traditional to transitional.

These designs come in three colors, multiple sizes, and additional options to fit specific types of hearths. If you need something different, special orders are also available!

Installation Tips for a Seamless Mantel Replacement

The most important tip for a suitable mantel replacement is to not underestimate the difference a professional installation makes. Calling a professional ensures your mantel is beautifully installed and adequately secured, and it is the best way to guarantee you’ll have little to no issues with your mantel down the line.

Maintaining Your Fireplace Mantel’s Splendor

In addition to learning how to remove mantel from fireplaces, it’s important to know how to maintain your new one. First of all, stone fireplaces benefit immensely from proper sealing because it greatly enhances their look and longevity. Make sure you get the right kind of sealer for the material your fireplace is made of!

Start by cleaning your fireplace with a mild soap and water. Let it dry for around 24 hours, then apply the sealer using a foam-tip applicator. Focus on applying an even coat, potentially adding a second coat for more protection.

Once it’s sealed properly, you can use soap and water to clean your fireplace, only bringing out the sealer again if you notice any wear.

Ultimately, keeping up with your fireplace’s maintenance can help prevent efflorescence and other stains that could impact its appearance.

Recap: Transforming Your Fireplace With a New Mantel

Ensure you have all the tools you need to safely remove your mantel, follow the steps outlined above (adjusting them as needed), and don’t hesitate to reach out for professional assistance. When you’re ready to purchase your new cast stone mantel, get professional help with installation, then follow the maintenance tips above to keep your investment looking great for years.

Discover your ideal fireplace mantel with Old World Stoneworks — Contact Us Today!

Hampton | Cast Stone Fireplace

The Essential Parts of a Fireplace: A Comprehensive Guide to Design and Functionality

Crafting Warmth and Elegance with Old World Stoneworks

A fireplace is more than just a source of warmth; it’s a symbol of timeless elegance and a focal point that anchors the soul of your living space. Understanding the various parts of a fireplace is not only essential for ensuring optimal functionality but also for creating a design that seamlessly blends aesthetics with purpose.

From the majestic mantel that crowns the hearth to the intricacies of the firebox and the sturdiness of the chimney, each of the parts of a fireplace plays a vital role in enhancing its visual appeal and operational efficiency.

At Old World Stoneworks, we offer custom-made fireplace elements and the expertise to make your fireplace a true reflection of your style and taste.

The Foundation: Fireplace Bottom and Hearth

The fireplace bottom serves as the foundation upon which the entire fireplace structure stands, providing stability and support. It is often constructed from durable materials like concrete or fire-resistant bricks.

The hearth, positioned above the fireplace bottom, incorporates function with design and symbolism. Beyond catching stray embers and enhancing safety, the hearth is a canvas where style meets tradition. Old World Stoneworks’ custom cast stone designs allow you to customize your hearth to match your unique taste and the overall aesthetic of your living space.

Old World Stoneworks goes beyond the conventional, offering custom creations that elevate your hearth to a work of art. Whether you prefer intricate carvings, classic lines, or a modern aesthetic, our artisans ensure that your fireplace becomes a statement of both craftsmanship and individuality.

The Framework: Fireplace Surround and Mantel

The fireplace surround and mantel form the framework that elevates the visual allure of your hearth. These components go beyond mere structural elements, adding character and personality to your living space. Here’s a closer look at the parts of a fireplace surround and the defining features that make it a focal point.

  • Mantel: The mantel, often referred to as the shelf above the fireplace, is a key component of the surround. It provides a horizontal surface for displaying cherished items, such as family portraits, decorative objects, or seasonal ornaments.
  • Legs: The legs, also known as pilasters or columns, are the vertical elements that frame the opening of the fireplace. These contribute to the overall aesthetic and can range from simple and sleek to ornate and intricate, depending on your style preferences.
  • Hearth: While the hearth is part of the foundation, it also plays a crucial role in the surround. The hearth extends outward from the fireplace, creating a visual border that enhances the overall design and provides a space for additional decorative elements.

Your fireplace should be as unique as you are. Customization options in materials, styles, and design allow you to tailor this central feature to suit your style and preferences. For example, cast stone mantels offer durability and a wide range of design possibilities with various colors and finishes to complement your interior, while wood offers a classic and warm aesthetic. Ornate carvings, intricate details and timeless designs characterize traditional mantels, while clean lines, minimalistic features, and contemporary designs define modern mantels.

Old World Stoneworks’ custom-made cast stone mantels are not just accessories; they are statements of sophistication and refinement. Our cast stone mantels are crafted with the same attention to detail and commitment to quality as our cast stone kitchen range hoods, seamlessly integrating functionality and style. Whether you have a specific design in mind or wish to collaborate on a custom creation, at Old World Stoneworks, we can work with you to make your mantle the true centerpiece of your home.

The Focal Point: Fireplace Opening and Firebox

The fireplace opening, also known as the firebox opening, frames the fire and plays a pivotal role in the overall design of the fireplace. Its dimensions, shape, and surrounding materials influence the visual impact of the hearth, making it a key consideration in achieving the desired aesthetic for your living space. The fireplace opening can range from grand and ornate to sleek and modern, allowing you to tailor this element to complement the overall style of your home.

Central to the fireplace’s anatomy is the wood-burning fireplace box. Designed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind, the firebox is the open-to-the-room area where fires are lit and burned. It’s designed to efficiently radiate warmth throughout your space. The design of the firebox ensures that heat is evenly distributed, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere in your home. High-quality materials ensure wood-burning fireplace boxes are built to withstand the rigors of regular use, ensuring longevity and performance.

The Finishing Touch: Fireplace Mantel and Overmantel

The fireplace mantel is more than a mere shelf; it is a canvas for artistic expression and a stage for personal style. Serving as a decorative focal point, the mantel elevates the visual appeal of the entire fireplace, providing a space to display cherished mementos, family portraits, or seasonal decor.

The overmantel, the extension above the mantel, introduces a vertical dimension that transforms the entire hearth into a visual masterpiece. This architectural element draws the eye upward and creates a captivating focal point that defines the entire living space. It also provides a canvas for intricate carvings, ornate designs, or even mirrors, amplifying the sense of space and elegance in the room.

Old World Stoneworks offers a range of customization options for both mantels and overmantels. Whether you envision a cast stone overmantel adorned with intricate carvings or the clean lines of transitional design, our artisans can bring your vision to life.

FAQs about the Parts of a Fireplace

What is the area in front of a fireplace called?

The hearth is the horizontal area directly in front of the firebox opening extending into the base of the firebox.

What is the bottom part of a fireplace called?

This, too, is the hearth. The hearth sits at the base of the firebox and extends about 16 to 18 inches outside the firebox either flush with the floor or onto a raised base. The hearth protects the flooring from the heat and embers.

What are the main parts of a fireplace?

The main parts of a fireplace typically include the firebox, fireplace surround, hearth, mantel, and overmantel.

Add Timeless Beauty & Craftsmanship to Your Home

A fireplace is more than just a source of warmth; a cast stone fireplace surround is a statement of timeless craftsmanship that transforms a house into a home. Every part of a fireplace, from the foundation to the focal point, plays a crucial role in creating an inviting atmosphere and enhancing the overall design of your living space.

At Old World Stoneworks, we understand that each part of a fireplace contributes to the overall experience, and our artisans are dedicated to bringing your vision to life. Whether you seek the grandeur of a traditional hearth or the contemporary sophistication of an arched fireplace design, our craftsmanship stands as a testament to enduring beauty and unwavering quality.

Design your dream fireplace with Old World Stoneworks — Contact Us Today!

Rothchild kitchen range hood design.

Recirculating Range Hood vs. Vented: Which Suits Your Kitchen Best?

Whether you’re a passionate home chef or someone who simply enjoys a warm, home-cooked meal, the choice between a recirculating range hood and a vented one can make a world of difference in your kitchen. Join us as we explore the pros and cons of recirculating range hoods vs. vented hoods to ensure your kitchen remains a place of culinary delight and comfort.

Ventilation in Today’s Kitchens

In the ever-evolving world of modern kitchen design, the quest for the perfect balance between functionality and aesthetics has never been more pronounced. Kitchens have transformed from mere cooking spaces into dynamic hubs for culinary experimentation, entertaining, and warming aesthetics. And as such, the significance of effective kitchen ventilation has risen to new heights.

With the rise of open-plan designs, where kitchens seamlessly merge with living spaces, the need for effective ventilation has become even more apparent. These expansive kitchen areas, often devoid of walls or partitions, demand a robust system to whisk away culinary aromas, steam, and grease that would otherwise permeate the entire living space. So how do you choose between a recirculating range hood vs. vented options?

It only makes sense that Old World Stoneworks, a company known for its proficient cast stone fireplace mantels and overmantels, would enter into the landscape of range hoods. At Old World Stoneworks we have perfected the art of marrying function with beauty.

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Decoding Range Hood Types

Let’s “get under the hood” and take a closer look at vented vs. recirculating range hoods.

How Recirculating Range Hoods Operate

The concept of kitchen ventilation dates back centuries, with ancient kitchens utilizing chimneys and fireplaces to disperse smoke and odors. Over time, the invention of the modern range hood with its exhaust fan and filters revolutionized kitchen air quality. Recirculating hoods were a later addition, making it feasible to provide ventilation in kitchens without easy access to exterior walls or roofs.

The process is quite straightforward. Recirculating range hoods are equipped with multiple layers of filters designed to capture and neutralize the various particles and odors that are produced during cooking. This filtration system typically includes grease filters, charcoal filters, and sometimes even HEPA filters, depending on the model’s sophistication. The grease filters capture oil and grease particles, while the charcoal filters absorb odors and smoke. In more advanced models, HEPA filters can even remove allergens and tiny particles, ensuring that the air is not only free of odors but also allergens like pollen, mold, dust, and bacteria.

Pros and Cons of Recirculating Range Hoods

Recirculating range hoods come with their own set of advantages and drawbacks.

  • Easier Installation: One of the most significant advantages is their ease of installation. Since they don’t require ductwork leading outside, they can be placed almost anywhere in the kitchen, offering more flexibility in design and placement. This means you can have a range hood without the constraints of kitchen layout or wall positioning.
  • Flexibility in Placement: Recirculating hoods can be installed on interior walls or islands, wherever you need them. This flexibility can enhance kitchen aesthetics and functionality.
  • Potential Limitations: While recirculating hoods effectively capture and filter odors, grease, and some smoke, they don’t evacuate these substances from your home entirely. This may result in a warmer kitchen and the need for additional ventilation strategies to control humidity and heat, especially during intense cooking sessions.

Understanding Vented Range Hoods

Vented range hoods work on a different principle. Their main purpose is to channel fumes, particles, and odors directly outside of the home. Vented hoods are connected to ductwork that leads to the exterior of the building. When you cook, the range hood’s exhaust fan draws in the cooking byproducts—such as smoke, steam, and odors—and expels them outside, preventing them from reentering the kitchen.

For a sleek, modern kitchen design, some homeowners choose to install vented hoods without upper cabinets. This approach emphasizes clean lines and open spaces, allowing the range hood to become a focal point in the kitchen’s visual aesthetics.

Find the Perfect Range Hood for Your KItchen

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Pros and Cons of Vented Range Hoods

Vented range hoods are renowned for their superior efficacy in removing contaminants from the kitchen environment. They excel at evacuating heat, moisture, and odors directly outside. However, this efficacy comes with its own set of considerations:

  • Superior Efficacy: Vented hoods are the gold standard when it comes to eliminating cooking byproducts. They prevent heat and moisture buildup in the kitchen, ensuring a more comfortable and odor-free cooking environment.
  • Potentially More Challenging Installation: Installing a vented hood typically requires more complex ductwork, which can be challenging in kitchens without direct access to exterior walls. The installation may also require more significant modifications to the kitchen layout and could potentially increase the overall cost.

Tackling the Central Question: Are Recirculating Range Hoods Effective?

So, just how effective are recirculating range hoods? Let’s take a closer look:

Efficiency in Filtration and Circulation

When it comes to maintaining a healthy and comfortable kitchen environment, understanding the science behind air filtration and circulation is essential. Proper ventilation, specifically through the use of range hoods, can significantly impact the air quality in your home.

Cooking, while a delightful experience, generates various byproducts, including visible elements such as grease and smoke, as well as less obvious but equally significant pollutants.

Several studies and expert opinions highlight the importance of efficient kitchen ventilation. For example, research conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reveals that cooking activities can release not only visible particulate matter like smoke and grease but also ultrafine particles that can linger in the air. These ultrafine particles can contribute to indoor air pollution, potentially leading to respiratory issues and a less-than-pleasant living environment.

Efficient range hoods are designed to address these concerns. They use various filters to capture and eliminate both large and small particles, as well as odors.

Upgrading Your Kitchen with a Recirculating Range Hood

To upgrade your kitchen with a range hood that provides optimal filtration and circulation, consider the following steps:

  1. Assess Your Cooking Habits: Think about your cooking style and the types of dishes you frequently prepare. Do you often sear meat at high temperatures or indulge in flavorful, aromatic cooking techniques? Understanding your culinary preferences will help you select a range hood that can handle the specific challenges of your kitchen.
  2. Choose the Right Type: Determine whether a recirculating or vented range hood is better suited for your kitchen. Recirculating hoods filter and recirculate the air, while vented hoods expel pollutants directly outside. Consider your kitchen layout, the feasibility of ductwork, and the extent to which you need to remove heat, moisture, and odors from the kitchen.
  3. Select Quality Filters: Ensure that the range hood you choose includes high-quality filters. HEPA filters are excellent at removing fine particles and allergens, while charcoal filters excel at eliminating odors. Investing in filters that suit your specific needs will enhance the efficiency of your range hood.
  4. Regular Maintenance: Maintain your range hood and its filters regularly. Clean or replace filters as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure continued performance.

Do Recirculating Range Hoods Work?

Recirculating range hoods are typically not as effective as vented ones. But for kitchens with limited access to exterior walls for venting, they are often the best choice. For optimal effectiveness, it’s crucial to choose a high-quality recirculating range hood with sophisticated filters and regularly maintain it. Ultimately, their performance can be quite impressive, making them a viable option for many kitchens.

Testimonials from Satisfied Customers

The true value of any product lies in the experiences of those who have used it. Old World Stoneworks has garnered a wealth of positive testimonials from satisfied customers whose kitchens have been transformed by our range hoods. Customers often praise not only the exceptional craftsmanship and beauty of the hoods but also the dedication and expertise of the Old World Stoneworks team.

Choose a Range Hood to Enhance Your Kitchen!

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Making the Informed Choice for Your Kitchen

In the dynamic world of kitchen design and ventilation, the choice between recirculating and vented range hoods remains a pivotal decision, offering distinct merits and potential limitations. Regardless of your choice, one thing is certain: a well-chosen range hood has a lasting impact on both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your kitchen. It’s not just an appliance; it’s an architectural masterpiece that enhances your daily culinary experiences.

Old World Stoneworks, with our exceptional cast stone range hoods, has mastered the art of uniting beauty and functionality. Our hoods are not merely ventilation solutions; they are timeless pieces of craftsmanship, capable of transforming your kitchen into a work of art. The durability, customization options, and aesthetic brilliance of Old World Stoneworks’ range hoods set them apart as a remarkable choice for your kitchen.

Ready to elevate your kitchen’s ambiance and utility? Don’t hesitate to reach out to Old World Stoneworks and discover the vast selection of cast stone range hoods today!

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Tips for Taking Care of Your Fireplace During the Off-Season

Tips for Taking Care of Your Fireplace During the Off-Season

A fireplace is excellent for warming the home’s aesthetics and indoor temperatures. That last attribute makes fireplaces a common amenity for homeowners to use during the cold winter months. However, this doesn’t mean you should neglect your chimney during the warm summer months. Read below to find three helpful tips for taking care of your fireplace during the off-season so you can have a cozy, healthy experience using it.

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Home Improvement Projects That Can Increase Your Home Value

Home Improvement Projects That Can Increase Your Home Value

Finding ways to increase a home’s value isn’t always easy because it often requires thinking of what potential buyers want. The right interior and exterior renovations around the house can have a major impact on how buyers perceive your property. Let’s explore the best home improvement projects that can increase your home value. Continue reading

Ways To Create a Fireplace Focal Point With Your Overmantel

Ways To Create a Fireplace Focal Point With Your Overmantel

The overmantel is only one part of a fireplace setup, but it’s a part that you can use to your advantage in a big way. The aesthetic benefits of the overmantel are so effective that you can create a focal point using the overmantel alone. Update your home today using these effective ways to create a fireplace focal point with your overmantel.

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3 Reasons To Install a Fireplace in Your Home

3 Reasons To Install a Fireplace in Your Home

Fireplaces are commonplace in homes. However, you shouldn’t install a fireplace solely because you see it in another house. First, consider what it brings to the space so you can learn how it will help you. A fireplace will make a big impact on your home, and that impact can be for the better. Browse these reasons to install a fireplace in your home to see why it may be the perfect upgrade for your property.

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Precast vs. Cast Stone: What’s the Difference?

Precast vs. Cast Stone: What’s the Difference?

Fireplaces warm up a home, but you can make certain design choices that influence their aesthetics. You can lean into a natural stone texture, or you can move in a different direction. Knowing which path to take to meet specific preferences requires learning what separates the available options. For example, you can install fireplaces using cast or precast building materials. So, when comparing precast vs. cast stone, what’s the difference? Let’s look at what makes each method unique and worth using in your home.

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3 Ways To Make Your Living Room Look More Luxurious

3 Ways To Make Your Living Room Look More Luxurious

Your home may look nice, but does it lack the level of luxury you want? Every homeowner has their own personal taste. That said, everyone can still follow the same steps to convey elegance in the living room. A luxurious living room is particularly powerful because it’s a space for socializing and relaxation. Try these ways to make your living room more luxurious if you want your creativity and personality to shine through.

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factory-built fireplace old world stoneworks

Your Comprehensive Guide to Masonry vs Prefab Fireplace

Usually you can tell at a glance whether a fireplace is masonry or prefab. While traditionalists prefer the aged look of a masonry fireplace, not every house is blessed with one. That’s when a prefabricated fireplace may be the best solution. Both can add that wonderful fire element to your home, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. Continue reading

presidents day

Presidents’ Day Fireplace Facts

Presidents’ Day turns our thoughts towards patriotism – and where it intersects with fireplaces, of course.

This annual holiday is celebrated on the third Monday in February and originally began in 1885 to honor George Washington (his birthday was February 22), but now commemorates all American presidents. Continue reading

Corner Fireplace Design

Corner fireplaces mantels flummox many people. It’s just not that easy to plan how to lay out your furniture with a corner fireplace. These days, most people wouldn’t deliberately build one into their home. But if you buy or rent a new abode with a corner fireplace, these design tips will help. Continue reading

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Introducing Our New Architectural Cast Stone Capabilities

We are happy to announce that Old World Stoneworks is now a full-scale manufacturer of architectural cast stone products

Over the past 20 years, we have been a full-service manufacturer for both custom cast stone and custom stone products that are used in residential and commercial properties alike. Now we are expanding! Our new cast stone production facility allows us to offer a full range of architectural services for our customers.

Old World Stoneworks has manufactured beautiful fireplace mantels, range hoods,  accessories and more for our customers. Now we are able to provide even more services and products with our improved architectural cast stone capabilities.

Why Cast Stone Is a Popular Choice for Builders

Architectural cast stone, which is a man-made limestone, is a cost-effective alternative to natural limestone because it maintains the inherent characteristics and appearance of real stone. It is popular with home builders because it can be used to create stunning and unique features without breaking the bank.

The budget-friendly nature of cast stone also makes it desirable to commercial builders because they are able to use it for large projects that would be prohibitively expensive otherwise.

Of course, choosing cast stone is about more than just saving money on a building or renovation project. It also is beautiful, fully customizable and durable. Cast stone can be used inside and outside and in any part of a building project. It is used in kitchens, entryways, living rooms, windows, archways, columns and much more.

Cast stone can be utilized well in private homes, apartment complexes, high-end condos, restaurants, office buildings, public gardens, government facilities and more.

Our Cast Stone Services

We are proud that our man-made limestone emulates Indiana limestone, also known as Bedford limestone, which is the highest quality quarried limestone in the United States.

Our new cast stone production facility provides us with the capabilities to provide all of the following cast stone products:

  • Facades
  • Columns
  • Pedestals
  • Window Surrounds
  • Door Surrounds
  • Arches
  • Finials
  • Entries
  • Stairs
  • Banding
  • Signage
  • Wall Caps
  • Balustrades
  • Urns
  • Corbels
  • Pavers
  • Fountains
  • Ornaments
  • Tables
  • Fireplace Mantels
  • And More

Our New Facility

Check out our new production facility!

GIF showing various cast stone products from Old World Stoneworks.

We are able to continue to craft the highest quality indoor and outdoor cast stone pieces, regardless of the size of the project. Our customers range from those who are working on small-scale projects in an individual residential home to those working on significant, large-scale commercial properties.

We also are capable of producing materials at a higher volume than ever before, thanks to the capacity of our new facility.

We are located in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, which means we are perfectly situated to quickly ship our cast stone products nationwide to wherever you are building.

I think this page includes images of the facility. If not, this link should go to somewhere else that the client prefers.

Take a Look at What We Have to Offer

We are here to help you find the right cast stone product for your new build or retrofit project. We can assist you with specifying, measuring and planning. We also look forward to answering any questions you have about our cast stone products.

In the meantime, we invite you to look at testimonials from our satisfied customers as well as the photo gallery of our work with six La Madeleine Country French Cafe locations. A video of our Normandy fireplace mantel in the dining room of La Madeleine can be seen on our YouTube page.

Contact us through our website or give us a call at 800-600-8336 to talk about how we can help you find the perfect cast stone product for your build.

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Berkley with Overmantel 9 design.

Cast Stone Fireplace Overmantels That Wow

Incorporating a cast stone fireplace overmantel is the perfect way to add both visual interest and height to your living space. With its rich history and a wide variety of designs we offer, adding an overmantel to your cast stone fireplace is sure to be the focal point of your home that will make everyone stop and say “wow!”.

Here are 4 cast stone fireplace overmantel designs that are guaranteed to make a grand statement. Continue reading

range hood

10 Kitchen Range Hoods That Make a Statement

At Old World Stoneworks, we think a big, bold kitchen range hood makes a powerful statement. Here are 10 of our favorite kitchen range hood styles – some made by us, some by other artisans. Continue reading

Rothton | Cast Stone Fireplace

Types of Stone Hearths

While the word “hearth” is often used interchangeably with “fireplace,” and is a great metaphor for family life, technically it means the floor of the fireplace that often extends into the room.

Choosing a type of stone hearth is not as exciting as selecting a mantel, and may be an afterthought in your purchase process.

But at Old World Stoneworks, we know that the smaller details are all important to the overall look of your room. This week we’ll take a peek at the four different types of stone hearths we offer. Continue reading

European Cast Stone Fireplace Mantel Design Manchester

European Designs: Cast Stone Fireplace Mantels

At Old World Stoneworks, the names of our cast stone fireplace mantels are highly thought out because of the design inspiration in which they came from. When creating these beautiful pieces of work, we not only strive to make them look luxurious but to also transport you into another world.  

European designs for cast stone fireplace mantels can be described as many elements beautifully blended together. It starts with the rich historical bones of European elegance, fused with the modern and sharp-edged details that we love today.

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Mid Century modern design cast stone fireplace mantel Conrad

3 Inspiring Mid-Century Modern Fireplace & Mantel Designs

Adding a mid-century modern fireplace and mantel is a simple way to achieve the undeniable timeless appeal of mid-century modern design into your home. Mid-century modern design is one that fully encompasses a sleek and simple appearance and doesn’t lack in luxury feel.

At Old World Stoneworks, our main focus is on creating inviting living spaces that are infused with cast stone elements that will never dull. Here are three inspiring designs that can help you incorporate the timeless and refined mid-century modern fireplace mantel design into your home:

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