Thanks - I am kind of back at the drawing board. I looked at some yesterday at Lowe's. The fireplace is 55" - and they come in 5' and 6' ---- the 5' one could be perfect, except at the bottom where it would "attach" to the current surround, it is only 52" which is too small. the 6' one would be way too big. I am trying to convince DH to make one - all it really is is a few boards - but he doesn't think he can do the angles. So now I have to try to figure out what to do.

I think it looked beautiful in her re-do, and not at all bathroom-y. I have a gas FP, but I would think if the fireplace is constructed correctly, the draw would pull the smoke up the chimney and not stain the surround. I have to say that the first pic above posted my nosoccermom makes my heart beat faster! Just gorgeous in that setting. And peppapoodle's light soapstone is also beautiful.

This is a little late, but maybe this will still be helpful. Assuming you have consulted the installation manual for the fireplace and the mantel shelf is set at or near the minimum required height (which is what most folks do), it will still get very hot, especially if it is an unvented gas fireplace. It is not uncommon for a mantel at minimum clearance to get well over 160° F, which is hot enough to cook eggs and will give you a bit of a burn if you leave your hand on there. Oil (solvent) based finishes do not do well subjected to that kind of heat and will tend to yellow. Water-based finishes will do better. If the wood shelf does not meet the minimum required clearance in the fireplace installation manual, there is nothing you can do to protect it, so it would need to be relocated or removed. If it does meet the required clearance, it may warp, discolor or crack, but it won't burn. We recommend exceeding the minimum clearance. Best wishes on your project!

I wouldn't match the fan! The vanilla is pretty, but be sure you use heat-resistant paint.