When designing a fireplace such as this, how do you determine the best dimensions for your stone and wood surround? I have a 36 inch wide by 28 inch high opening with a standard 8 foot ceiling. The code states I must have a minimum of 8 inches to the sides and 12 inches above of non-flammible surface (stone, brick, etc...) Do you have any advice as to what would look best in this scenario? I want something that looks close to this picture. I am curious, though, how much area I should have of stone to the sides and top as well as how wide and tall the mantle and surround should be. Any help is much appreciated! Thank you!!! »
edmontongirln18 How do you attach the wood surround to the stacked stone?, I mean , do you set the mantel inside the masonary on flush up against it? I am wondering about the neatness.
Trying to add a mantel after the fact is possible, but nightmarish.