Taking up the mantle

Overview - TV, mantle, fireplace. TV is
temporary, we're saving up for a larger one.

See the rustic gouges?

One more view from the front

We had our reclaimed wood mantle installed today, and I love it! We found a local carpenter who was able to pick out an appropriately sized beam from a salvage yard. After we went out to his Treasure Island workshop to approve the beam, he sanded, treated, stained, waxed, and installed it. It has old black gouges and nail holes in it - so cool!

A little bit of grout/caulk and our fireplace wall will be complete! I'm so pleased with the way it turned out.  I would love to refer the carpenter if you need any interesting wood work done...