Joanna Gaines' Stunning Mantel Design Idea Will Give You Major Renovation Inspo

If you're looking for a simple addition that will change the look of your living space, take advice from Joanna Gaines. Even if your style doesn't fall under farmhouse chic, your home can still benefit from her timeless tips. Adding a rustic touch to your interior doesn't mean it will look dated. In fact, organic décor and natural accessories can ground a contemporary space. If you are starting a renovation, Gaines has a stunning mantel design idea that will give you major inspiration. All it entails is adding a reclaimed wooden beam to your fireplace mantel.

In a design transformation, "Fixer Upper" stars Joanna and Chip Gaines turned a faux fireplace into a gorgeous statement piece with their signature shiplap and a mantel made of reclaimed wood. Joanna explained her vision in a Facebook clip: "I love old mantels. This has to be custom-built. I want it white, so it doesn't matter what kind of wood you do. I want to put corbels on the ends, but very simple and distressed so it looks like it was the mantel that came here. ... I would like to do the shiplap to the top." Although the wood used for the shiplap would be painted white, there was one piece of natural wood that wouldn't be covered — the reclaimed wood beam you'll reuse above the fireplace. If your goal is to decorate a fireplace like a professional, adding a solid wood mantlepiece is a stunning place to start.

If you want to add shiplap like Chip and Joanna, you can follow the Gaines' approach and hire a carpenter. She explained the transformation to the homeowner, "Our carpenter, Clint Harp, came in and did the shiplap and then this nice mantel that's an old beam from a barn." The client replied, "It just looks like it was meant to be in this house!" However, if you only want to add a wooden mantlepiece, this is something that can be done yourself. First, locate the studs and drive in lag screws, cutting off the heads to leave sturdy rods. Then, drill matching holes in the back of the mantel, add construction adhesive, and slide the mantel onto the screws for a hidden mount. Once you've installed your mantel, this is the best way to clean reclaimed wood in your home.

This isn't the first time Joanna has recommended the use of a single beam to transform an interior. She wrote on her Magnolia blog, "You don't always have to add in full ceiling beams — a simple beam accent is a great way to achieve a cohesive-feeling design throughout the house." Joanna Gaines has several do's and don'ts for decorating with reclaimed wood. The trick is to choose a finish and tone that will complement your space. With a rich, dark brown tone, walnut is ideal if you want a traditional appearance. For a more modern look, consider white oak. If your goal is to curate a luxurious interior, cherry wood is a perfect choice.