Figuring out how to decorate a fireplace mantel can be a deceptively tricky task, especially when you can scroll through Instagram or open a magazine and see tons of artfully decorated fireplaces without leaving your house. A mantel may often be the focal point of a room, which can add to the stress of deciding exactly how you want to decorate it. However, there are several different methods you can follow when planning your mantel décor. Whether you are aiming to make Martha Stewart proud or just looking to add some style to your living space, the following tips can help you tastefully decorate a fireplace mantel for any time of year.
Decorate with art
A classic and beautiful way to decorate a fireplace mantel is with pieces of art. Not only is this an excellent way to display the art that you own, but it also adds flair and character to a room. There are several ways you can display artwork on a mantel, including:
- Layering the artwork to create a casual, gallery-like look. Use different size frames to play around with proportions.
- Placing a single, bold piece of artwork on the mantel or hanging above it to serve as an additional centerpiece and focal point.
- Choosing an art collection with similar themes and tones to create cohesion.
Decorate with curated items
Similar to decorating a mantel with a collection of art, choosing curated items creates a cohesive look atop your fireplace mantel and reduces the pressure to pick individual decorative pieces. Coordinate your items by color for simplicity and ease or by theme for a more laidback feel. Some potential ideas include flowers or natural elements. If you have any collections of sorts, this is the perfect opportunity to display them. Dust off your old baseball memorabilia, records, and vintage cameras and display them proudly.
Decorate for the holidays
Holidays present an opportunity to add festivity to your usual mantel decorations. You can choose to swap out your typical decorations for holiday-themed ones, or you can add the following items to your regular mantel for that seasonal touch:
- Lay seasonal garland (ex. pine for Christmas, twine and Easter eggs for Easter, gourds, and vines for Thanksgiving, etc.) along the mantel.
- Place ornaments in a vase or bowl or scatter them along the fireplace.
- Hang a string of lights around the fireplace or draped across the mantel.
Decorating a fireplace mantel doesn’t have to be stressful. Following these tips and tricks can help you decorate your mantel and achieve your desired look and style. While we can’t guarantee Martha Stewart’s personal stamp of approval, we can bet your friends and family will be impressed by your new display. For more design inspiration, check out the interior designers in Mt. Pleasant, SC.