Decorating A Mantel, For Any Season

So, you thought decorating a mantel was going to be an easy-breezy task? I hear ya; it’s funny how cute items can quickly turn into a cluttered mess. Okay, we’re going to figure this out together.

We’re going to turn your mantel into the focal point of your room and do it with style.

You see, once upon a time, I read some real estate advice advocating seeking out properties with fireplaces. The author added that fireplaces had miraculous powers making even the tiniest space can feel grand, luxurious, and charming.

I guess that was true because we purchased our first fixer-upper when I was 23 years old. It was a dump, but its saving grace was that it was a dump with a wood-burning fireplace.

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Somehow the buried oil tank and termite issues didn’t even phase us. In fact, we burned one full cord of wood while relaxing during the first winter season.

We’re convinced the crackling of the fire during the open house is what made the house sell for a high market value during a dead housing market. I’m sure the champagne helped, too.

So, for our next project, we sought out a property with a fireplace and repeated the same formula when we sold it.

Ideas For Decorating a Fireplace Mantel

Decorating a mantel doesn’t have to be that complicated. It actually comes down to just a few simple rules and some trial and error.

Keeping proportion and balance in mind while decorating will ensure a cohesive look. Since mantels are usually large in size smaller items can get lost and appear cluttered. When it comes to small decor items apply the less is more rule.

Should Your Fireplace Decor Be Symmetrical or Asymmetrical?

The choice is yours. Whether you choose symmetry or asymmetry decor style, both will create balance. It’s entirely a matter of preference.

Most traditional designs will use symmetry; an example of this would be placing “identical items” on each side of the mantel.

For example, a pair of vases like these metal ones would look great on either side of a mantel:

You can also create symmetry by placing a large piece of art in the center as the anchor of the design and using the same pot on the ends of the mantel.

If you would like to create asymmetry, place decorative items in groups.

A décor principle that always works well is grouping things in odd numbers. Usually, my go-to is groups of threes.

Layering and Styling Your Fireplace Mantel Decor

Asymmetry designs play right into the farmhouse decor style.

To create a cozy and casual feel, layer items of varying sizes.

And to make things more interesting, you don’t need to hang your artwork! Instead, think about placing your artwork on the mantel and leaning it against the wall. This provides a more relaxed design.

Place large-scale items in the back to create a focal point. Use smaller accessories in the front to provide interest and details.

To add dimension to your mantel design, add a mix of heights. You can place your small items on top of decorative boxes or books to create varying heights.

Be sure that the items relate to each other. In other words, they’re all in the same color family or made of the same material, such as wood. This will help keep the design modern.

Three Unique Ideas For Decorating A Mantel Year Round

Using Mirrors When Decorating a Fireplace Mantel

Mirrors are an excellent choice for decorating a mantel and are timeless. Depending on how they are positioned, they can add depth and reflect features in the room.

Unlike artwork, which makes a LOUD statement, a mirror adds a lot of style without complicating the design.

In other words, you will not have to work as hard to make it work with other pieces. Of course, if the room is grand, the frame and size of the mirror should be to scale.

An ornate frame adds to the drama; however, the other items on the mantel can be simple, like this one:

Lastly, mirrors can be used as part of a large arrangement or can work well alone.

Update Your Fireplace Mantel

Many homeowners I’ve worked with have complained about not liking their mantels. My recommendation would be the following:

If you have outdated brick on your fireplace, you may be interested in the German Smear Brick technique, which will provide an inexpensive and fantastic transformation. Check out my tutorial here: How To Create The German Schmear Look.

Another option would be to paint your mantel, update the surround of the fireplace with tiles, or change it altogether.

We love these baroque-style tiles, which would add a unique spin to your fireplace:

Lastly, for a quick update, Amazon has some great mantel options from basic designs to ornate ones, which can immediately transform your whole room.

Complete Your Mantel Decorating Like a Pro

Okay, now that your mantel is looking fancy, you may begin to feel that the lower section of your fireplace appears a little neglected. If that is the case, add one or a few well-chosen pieces to complete the design.

This is where you can add an element that is both decorative and useful. Choosing a firewood holder helps bring in some nature and warmth from the wood logs.

Decorating A Mantel, For Any Season – Conclusion

Decorating a mantel correctly will take your fireplace from a lovely to, “Wow, your fireplace looks worthy of a photo shoot for Better Homes and Gardens magazine.”

Your fireplace provides warmth, ambiance, and a place your family gathers.

Decorating a mantel to showcase its full potential will only allow the time spent in front of it to be all the more special.

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