A mantel can take up a huge amount of visual space in your home, even if it’s not taking up a lot of physical room. Your mantel and fireplace automatically catch your eye, so it’s important to make it an interesting place to look. When you decide to decorate your mantel, remove everything that is on it, clean it and leave yourself a blank canvas upon which to work.

According to SAS Interiors, it’s important to “begin in the center and choose something that is of a substantial size, maybe a mirror or artwork that you love. This will be the main focal point of the mantel and will “ground” the other accessories in front.” From this starting point, layer different items around the focal point to draw the eye, like candles, tall vases, artwork and other items that you like. It is important to vary the heights of the items as well as layer them in depth on the mantel. A mantel is like any other space in the house and its decor should flow with the seasons. Try to accent your main elements with seasonal touches.

Here are four different design ideas for mantelpieces that you can use as a springboard for your own mantel.

1. Chalkboard

Place a chalkboard on your mantel and change the message with the seasons – or the week. This one is decorated for Christmas, but you could easily congratulate a child whose team won a football match or a new graduate. Use different decorations throughout the year to accent the message.

2. Mirrors

Mirrors above the mantel are a pretty standard decorating idea, but it can enhance a room by making it look a little bigger or reflecting design elements in the room. Surround the mirror with other favorite items like pictures, candles, or a collection of items you love.

3. Collage

The frames in the above photo are crooked, so this is an excellent way to deal with crooked frames while still decorating in a collage fashion. This layering of framed pictures can be done with different types of artwork as well. Including different types of items of you love on the mantelpiece makes it a well-loved space. Stacking favourite books, candles, collectibles, a unique vintage hat or two (as in the photo above), all create a space that is interesting for both you and your visitors.

4. Windowpanes and Weathered Boards

Weathered boards and shutters, whether in flag fashion as in the photo above or in other styles, are an attractive and eye-catching way to accent a mantel. Decorate with rustic touches from the beach, old windows and other treasures.

About The Author

Claudia
Co-Founder | Publisher

Claudia works with local businesses in the building sector to help them communicate their successes and stories. Homes Canberra arose from a simple dream; to create a space where the homes industry can showcase their passion for what they do.

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