When was the last time you’ve given your mantelpiece some thought? If the answer is “not recently,” there’s probably a reason for that.
See, a fireplace mantel should be the focal point of any room it’s in. When you enter the room, the mantel display must immediately draw your eye. For that to happen, the display needs two things: proportion and balance.
Want to transform your mantelpiece into the center of attention? Here are five mantel ideas that will turn this vision into reality!
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1. Painted Simplicity
If your mantel already has character, let it be the star of the show. Limit your accessories to a simple mirror and a few well-placed objects. Look for glass vases and other decorative accents that can fade into the background.
Another way to highlight a mantel’s features is to paint the mantel, trim, and brick surround the same color. An all-over paint job can create a cohesive backdrop while giving your mantel more room to shine.
2. Coordinated Art
Any art you hang above the mantel should be a good fit in both size and style. If the piece you want is too small, add a few other hanging pieces around it. In a neutral living room, opt for art with a neutral backdrop.
Your coordination efforts should extend to your accessories. Try using home decorations that pull from colors found elsewhere in the room. For example, a wood mirror frame may feel at home with the finish of the floor.
3. Layered Frames
On the right mantel, fun frames can shine more than the artwork itself. Test this theory by layering some empty frames of different finishes on the shelf. Complete the look with a flourish of greenery or flowers.
In a tall room, try having both the frame and painting work in unison. Place a piece with a tall and narrow frame on the mantel to draw the eye toward the ceiling. For added impact, pick a frame that contrasts with the mantel.
4. Rustic DIY
If your fireplace didn’t come with a mantel, create one yourself! Get an oak beam, stain it to create a distressed finish, then mount it with a drill bit and lag bolts. The key is to pick the right beam for your mantelpiece.
Using an oak beam also gives your fireplace a nice rustic look. Capitalize on that by adding some traditional mantel decorations. A pair of wall sconces on each side of the fireplace and footed vases are a great place to start.
5. Maximalist Decor
Many types of mantel decorations are minimalist by nature, but pulling out all the stops can be fun as well. That said, doing maximalism right requires a solid strategy. The two key words are theme and scale.
For instance, try combining a large piece of art with two medium artworks. The large piece emphasizes the height of the room, and the other pieces add to the arrangement. Only use pieces with a common thread of color.
Making the Most of Your Mantelpiece
When it comes to mantels, it’s all about your personal style. Experiment with the above options until you find a mantelpiece that’s the right fit. Remember, no design is permanent—you can always play with the setup later!
Looking for more decorating tips for styling your living room? Keep checking out our Fashion & Lifestyle section!
