Weekly Design Inspiration: Decorating Your Mantel

I often hear from clients that they’re not sure what to do with their mantel - so I want to share some Do’s and Don’ts on how to decorate. I want this to be fun and I hope these tips help you get off to the right start.

There are so many different types of mantles, and each offers a different decoration opportunity. 

1- DO: Incorporate Reflective Surfaces

 
Rejuvenation

Rejuvenation

 

You can never go wrong with a mirror on or above your mantle. Reflective surfaces are magic as they make your home feel light and bright - which in turn can make your space feel bigger! 

2- DO: Use Your Home’s Style as Your Starting Point

 
Jeffrey Dungan Architects

Jeffrey Dungan Architects

 

The best way to start decorating is to take direction from the style of your home. If you live in a chic log cabin with a stone fireplace, use that as your baseline. Alternatively, if your home is ultra-modern, you’ll want to incorporate items that work with that aesthetic. 

DESIGN TIP: You can absolutely choose styles outside of your home’s natural decor. For example, if you live in a century home, you can still use more modern decor. 

3- DO: Add in Greenery

 
Jaimee Rose Interiors

Jaimee Rose Interiors

 

You hear me talking about my love of greenery all of the time. There’s something about adding fresh flowers or leafy greens that immediately makes your home transform from feeling stark to homey. 

4- DO: Use Neutrals

 
Magnolia - Joanna Gaines

Magnolia - Joanna Gaines

 

A great place to start when decorating is to incorporate neutrals. For example, add in some gold or black candlesticks. These will look great all year long!

5- DO: Add Texture

 
Boxwood Avenue

Boxwood Avenue

 

You’ll want to mix and match the types of items you use to style your mantle to add texture to your display. Mix metals, clays, wood and glass to instantly up your look.

6- DON’T: Be Afraid to Keep it Simple

Mark Ashby Design

Mark Ashby Design

Sometimes simplicity is best!! Don’t be afraid to let the mantle speak for itself, all on its own - no decoration needed. 

7- DON’T: Be Afraid to Layer

 
Josh Young

Josh Young

 

Please don’t feel that everything has to be lined up in a row and be perfectly seen. Adding layers gives your mantle a lived-in feeling. If you tend to be indecisive, this is a great option for you … add more than one piece of artwork!

8- DON’T: Be Afraid of Colour

 
Roomed

Roomed

 

If you love colour, wallpaper is a great way to add a pop. Alternatively, a great colourful piece of art works as well.

9- DON’T: Be Afraid to Light It Up

 
Circa Lighting

Circa Lighting

 

Add matching sconces next to artwork! This is a great way to make your fireplace stand out while injecting your personal style. 

10- DON’T: Worry if You Don’t Have a Fireplace

If you don’t have a mantel, don’t fret! The same tips can be applied to decorating your dresser, buffet table, or foyer table. Make any furniture piece feel and function like a mantel!

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