Yes, please post a picture of the fireplace in it's current state as well as pictures of tiles you are considering.

Skip the mantel entirely. : ) You don't see it anywhere, because nobody does it. The mantle is the accent, or part of a surround. You will have all the edges, they will need a pencil trim or a bullnose. It is over think. Pick a tile, and if you need an accent tile ? You really don't or you highlight the fire box.

Here's why you DON'T find it........: )

Just because it hasn't been done so far doesn't mean that it can't be done.

Or ripped off when you're unhappy : ) lol

Show the tiles and the area where it all GOES.

This is for new construction, early in the process. Attached photos are possible styles of fireplace (linear, glass floor media) and tiles.

My style is transitional/contemporary, but not pure modern. I think a simple mantel shelf will soften the look of the linear fp and tile. Plus I like the shelf for (restrained) decorative display. This pic is from the model home, tiled surround with a wood mantel shelf.

ps - I changed plan so that fp will be centered on wall, not in the corner!

So Grace what did you end up doing.i wanted to use all tile but my dad thinks the breaks in the tile will make the mantel look tacky

This is done by pc not the real deal

Really wondering if you did it and how it turned out. I have been googling the same idea for what seems like hours. It works in my head .

Me too - love to hear if anyone made it work.