The mantel is often the focal point of the room, making it the perfect place to showcase your personal style. Whether you prefer a minimalist approach or a more elaborate display, there are countless ways to decorate your mantel. Here are ten stunning everyday mantel decorating ideas to inspire you.
Incorporate Mirrors with artwork
You don’t have to choose between a mirror or an artwork to place on your mantel—you can enjoy both. By layering a mirror in front of a large art piece, you add depth and interest to your fireplace mantel.
Add Some Books
Running out of space to store your novels? Use the mantel. Even if you’re not an avid reader, this cozy setup can give your living room a charming, old-timey feel.
Consider Metal Accents
Gold or brass figurines make an immediate impact. Add one or two to instantly add flair to your mantel. Animal sculptures are particularly popular and will be appreciated by family members of all ages.
Add a Trailing Plant
Place a trailing plant on one end of your mantel for a relaxed, asymmetrical look. If you have the space, consider adding charming pots and plant stands. If you’re worried about remembering to water your plant, opt for a realistic-looking fake one instead.
Decorate with Pillar Candlesticks
Arrange pillar candlesticks for maximum impact. This captivating display can be enjoyed throughout the day, and lighting the candles at night creates a peaceful ambiance. Use ornamental pieces in various sizes and heights to add visual interest and to balance your mantel.
Go for Vintage Charm
You can bring vintage-inspired flair to your mantel by adding a tall metal urn, a beautifully carved vase, and an oval miniature picture to introduce new shapes and materials. Incorporating a few vintage pieces into your mantel décor is an excellent way to give the entire area a collected, lived-in feel while also adding a personal touch.
Try an Eclectic Look
Combine old and contemporary décor to create a unique mantel display. An antique mirror is a classic choice that draws attention to the mantel as the room’s focal point while visually expanding the area. For a collected look, add a stack of antique books, pieces of crockery, and an unusual cloche. Finish the display with some fresh greenery to liven things up.
Add Elegant Molding
Molding can enhance the character of your fireplace wall. Paint the molding pieces the same color as the walls and arrange them in rectangular shapes to frame the area around the fireplace.
Play with Colors through an Accent Wall
Paint the surrounding wall a bright, eye-catching color to revitalize a bland fireplace. Simple additions, such as candlesticks and matching deer figurines, add a personalized touch and complete the look.
Layer
Layer a piece of art, a mirror, and ornamental elements on your mantel to infuse character and intrigue. To prevent a monotonous or crowded look, mix pieces of different shapes and forms. For inspiration, center the display with a large rectangular mirror, lean a smaller piece of art in front of it, or add organically shaped decorative touches like brass candlesticks to break up the linear elements.
Your mantel is a canvas for your creativity. Whether you lean towards classic designs or modern flair, these ideas can help you create a stunning display that reflects your personal style. Remember, the key is to have fun, cater your mantel to your tastes, and don’t be afraid to let it evolve with the seasons.
