To paint or not to paint? That really is the question.
 My partner and I are moving into a new apartment, and it has this lovely  vintage gas fireplace with a darkly stained mantel.
The fireplace is faced with some pretty interesting tile — but I  can’t decide whether I hate it or love it.
I am trying to figure  out whether to leave the mantel stained, keeping the look traditional,  or just paint it out. In my search for inspiration, I’ve come across  some gorgeous mantels. Obviously not all of them will suit our space and  the existing elements — but they are still fun to review! Here are a  couple of options…
 Option 1: Paint it black. I love this look — it's so  sophisticated, and with so many graphic elements in the space, the black  really grounds the room.
 Option 2: Go rustic. I love the  roughed up look of this one. I’m not sure if the landlord would be too  happy about this treatment, though…!
Option 3: Keep it simple. This is  my favourite from the Lulu DK  website. It's so clean and simple, plus it highlights all the other  elements in the room.
Now to make a decision — that’s a whole  other story! What would you suggest?
For more mantel inspiration,  view our Fireplaces  And Mantel Displays photo gallery.