FINISH CARPENTRY BLOG
What Are the Best Dimensions for a Custom Fireplace Mantel?
A custom fireplace mantel can completely transform your living space — but getting the dimensions right is what makes it look balanced, proportional, and high-end.
Is Wainscoting Wall Panels Still Stylish or Outdated?
Wainscoting has been used in homes for centuries, but many homeowners still ask: Is wainscoting wall paneling outdated?
Is Wainscoting Wall Paneling Worth Installing in Your Home?
Wainscoting wall panels have been used in homes for centuries, but their popularity continues to grow as homeowners look for ways to add character and value without major renovations.
Shiplap Fireplace Design Trends for 2026
Shiplap fireplaces continue to be popular in 2026, but the style has matured.
Fireplace Mantel Design Trends for 2026
Fireplace mantels are no longer just decorative shelves — in 2026, they’re becoming architectural focal points that define the character of a space.
Can You Use Shiplap on a Fireplace — and Is It Worth It?
Shiplap has become a popular design choice for fireplace surrounds and feature walls, but many homeowners wonder whether it’s safe — and whether it’s the right investment.
Fireplace Mantel vs. Mantle: What’s the Difference?
If you’re researching fireplaces, home design, or renovation terminology, you’ve likely seen both fireplace mantel and fireplace mantle used online.
What Is the Best Height for a Coffered Ceiling? A Complete Guide
Coffered ceilings are one of the most effective ways to add depth, character, and architectural impact to a room.
Shiplap Fireplaces: Pros, Cons & Design Tips for a Modern Home
A fireplace is often the centerpiece of a living room — a natural gathering spot that sets the tone for your home’s style. In recent years, shiplap fireplaces…
Are Fireplace Mantels Out of Style?
If you’re planning a fireplace renovation or designing a new focal point for your living space, you might wonder whether fireplace mantels are still in style.
Waffle Ceiling vs. Coffered Ceiling: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to elevating the look of a space, few features make a statement like a detailed ceiling design.
How to Determine the Perfect Mantel Size Above Your Fireplace in Toronto
When designing your dream living space, the fireplace often serves as a central feature, and adding a mantel can elevate the entire room's aesthetic.
The Timeless Charm and Practical Benefits of a Waffle Ceiling in Your Home
When it comes to elevating your home's design, few features offer the blend of aesthetic appeal and functional benefits quite like a waffle ceiling—often referred to as a coffered ceiling.
Can You Use Shiplap on a Fireplace? A Stylish and Safe Design Guide
If you're looking to add warmth and character to your home, few features are more impactful than a custom fireplace wall.
What Is a Fireplace Mantel? A Key Design Element in GTA Homes
A fireplace mantel—also called a mantelpiece—is the decorative framework that surrounds a fireplace opening. While mantels once had a functional purpose in older homes,
What Is the Purpose of a Coffered Ceiling? (And Why You Might Want One)
Coffered ceilings have been used in architecture for centuries, dating back to ancient Rome and the Renaissance. Today, they’re a sought-after design feature in both traditional and modern homes—and for good reason.
How to Properly Install a Custom Fireplace Mantel: Safety & Style Rules You Need to Know
Installing a custom fireplace mantel is one of the most effective ways to elevate the look of your living room or family space.
What Do People Put on Fireplace Mantels? 10 Stylish Ideas to Elevate Your Space
A fireplace mantel is more than just a shelf above the fire—it’s a focal point that anchors your living space and reflects your personal style.
Shiplap vs. Drywall Ceiling: Which One Is Better for Your Home?
When it comes to ceiling finishes, most homeowners automatically think of drywall. It's clean, smooth, and standard in modern homes.
What Is a Waffle Ceiling?
A waffle ceiling is a decorative architectural feature that creates a grid of square or rectangular recessed panels on your ceiling. The crisscross pattern of beams forms a look similar to — you guessed it — a waffle!

