As the fireplace mantel is a focal point in a room, it is a fabulous opportunity to express your interests and display what you love. Begin with a display formula and make small changes to create a fresh or seasonal appeal. This post offers mantel decorating ideas that could take you right through the holidays with a few tweaks.
Mantel Design Formulas:
Symmetrical Look
Are you the kind of person who wants both sides of your mantel to look the same, displaying an item in the center? If so, you like the symmetrical look, this style can be the easiest to decorate and change with the seasons. You can display a lovely mirror or piece of artwork in the center and flank it with tall candles, topiaries, or lamps (or flank the mirror with sconces). The key here is to have the proper height to create interest by encouraging the eye to look up. You will not want to place small items along the mantel. With each season, you can add a silk floral arrangement in the center displaying natural objects to add variety and color.
The Wave
This mantel design concept encourages the eye to go from high to low and high to low each time, varying the heights like a wave. Start with a tall featured item, such as a beautiful vase, and gradually carry the eye in a wave formation. Try to group your items appropriately, managing color and heights accordingly. Stand back, look at your arrangement, and be sure it isn’t too busy yet interesting to create that visual “wave.†This look is flexible as items can easily be moved around, moved out, and new seasonal items can nicely take their place.
Simplicity
Do you like the concept of using all one color? A simple mantel design is best for you! Do you like white? This time of year, you will find beautiful white pumpkins for a lovely fall decoration. Use white lanterns, vases, and candles; you have a beautiful mantel statement! For some beautiful white vases, check out this selection from West Elm.
For more fall inspiration ideas, view my Pinterest board. For all your home decorating, color consultation, or home staging needs, call Debbie at 610-955-8202 or email for a consultation!
By Debbie Correale, Redesign Right, LLC. Stay connected on Facebook, Twitter @RedesignRight, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Houzz. Feature photo licensed from Shutterstock.