For the best effect, every room in your home should be decorated with a focal point in mind. The focal point of a room is where the eye is naturally drawn. If you are lucky enough to have a fireplace in your home, give a shout out to the focal point of that room! To make it pop, you will want to style your mantel to add to the wow factor.
There are several general ways to get to the wow of your fireplace mantel decor while keeping with your style and without looking too forced (unless that’s the look you want). There are also certain rules to follow in design of any kind. You want to keep these rules in mind no matter which way you choose to style your mantel.
Styling Rules
Symmetry and Pairs.
The easiest way to convey balance and calm is repetition. Place two identical items on either side of a mantel, or choose ones with the same visual weight.
Color Balance.
Various objects with the same color will look like they belong together. Grouping by color keeps the arrangement from looking too busy or scattered.
Rule of Three.
A trio of accessories is always a safe bet. This trio can be comprised of items of different shapes, colors, heights, and materials to give the group a kick.
Height Changes.
Play with objects of different heights and weights such as art work paired with a small stack of books.
Negative Space.
Special objects need negative space while the less important items benefit from being grouped together so the beauty is in the grouping.
You can also stack and arrange objects by size from large to small.
Now that you know the basics of styling, I’ll give you some examples of How to Style Your Fireplace Mantel:
Overlap Artwork
Following the styling rules above, overlap artwork and anchor with candle holders.
Establish a Theme
Such as a common color. This Spring mantel by Jenna Burger Design shows a creative use of turquoise.
Asymmetrical Arrangement
The same way that symmetry conveys balance and calm, asymmetry will convey a sense of excitement.
Empty Frames
Place a few empty frames along with a few accessories and flowers or greenery. Don’t forget the styling rules!
Easy
Hang a mirror in the middle and a sconce on either side. Place a large vase in front of the mirror and fill in the rest of the space with smaller accessories such as vases or candle sticks.
Unique (and my favorite)
Layer a small mirror over a large one.
Hang a large plain mirror above the mantel, then place a smaller decorative mirror in front. Mirrors can make a space feel larger, so this is great for small spaces.
Flat Panel TV Over the Mantel?
Recess the TV into the wall behind the fireplace and enclose it with bi-fold doors.
Add Molding
Add character to the wall above your fireplace with molding. Paint the molding the same color as the wall. This frames the space above the mantel and draws the eye upward.
Paint
Paint the wall surrounding the fireplace a strong, striking color.
Built-Ins?
If your fireplace is flanked by built-ins, consider how they relate to the mantel and coordinate them.
High Ceilings?
Emphasize the height of a room by displaying a tall frame, mirror or art piece on the mantel for impact.
Affordable
Try a decal to add interest without the cost of art. Make sure it’s not too small or not too large.
Mixing Styles
If, for example, your fireplace is rustic stone and your decor is modern, add some modern abstract art above the mantel that pulls from other colors in the room.
Get creative! Use your mantel to display items that reflect you and your interests!
Black Ribbon Studio 