Notes

Creating the Perfect Mantel for Your Fireplace

Your fireplace mantel should feature items that draw the eye in pairs. Even if the two elements don't exactly match, a symmetrical arrangement will appear more natural and less staged - just take Instagrammer @sarahrosewheeler's sunburst mirror and palm fronds as an example!

Assemble an art piece or large frame to avoid overcrowding the space on your mantel and layer additional decor pieces at different heights for visual interest, as seen here.
Mirrors

Mirrors are essential components of any mantel - not only can they add depth and dimension, but they're a fantastic way of brightening a room, but they can also create visual balance while making the space seem larger.

Add some flair to your space by framing a decorative mirror with artwork in complementary colors, creating an eye-catching yet understated display. Doing this creates an eye-catching but not overdone effect that won't overwhelm the room.

Mirrors make great anchor pieces and can be surrounded by ceramics or candlesticks to complete the vignette. However, be careful not to overstuff the area with too many decorative items - opt for odd numbers of vases and candlesticks instead to keep things looking spacious.
Candlesticks

Candlesticks add a natural element to a fireplace vignette and help create the feeling of warmth associated with fireplaces. Combine birch wood candle holders with DIY cherry blossoms for an attractive yet casual look.

Mirrors or paintings should serve as the centerpiece for mantel displays; make sure it covers at least half to two thirds of its width to achieve an eye-pleasing display.

Staggering smaller items in front of larger objects adds depth and creates a more balanced aesthetic. If possible, try grouping decor objects in odd numbers; groups of three are particularly eye-pleasing.
Artwork

As the focal point of any room, your fireplace mantel provides the perfect opportunity for self-expression. Play with different decor styles to curate a gallery that represents your unique aesthetic; try pairing rustic wooden signs with modern sculptures or an antique clock flanked by framed prints for maximum impact! There are endless opportunities here.

Aundrea advises using odd numbers when arranging objects on your mantel (three candlesticks instead of two and five bud vases instead of four). This allows the items to blend more naturally together while creating visual depth.

Be sure to arrange objects of varying heights on your mantelpiece to add depth and interest, drawing the eye along its path through the vignette. This will keep the arrangement engaging for guests as well as help your eye follow its flow.
Collectibles

No matter what it is you collect - be it pictures, vinyl records, vases, coins or currency, stamps flowers or fine china - the mantel is an ideal place to display it all. While some collectors like to change up their displays annually others opt for more permanent arrangements; one homeowner in Mequon uses hand-painted Santas made by family and friends each year to line her mantel!

Homeowners love displaying an assortment of beautiful accessories on their mantel, but it is essential to consider how the objects interact when creating a vignette. When grouping multiple items together such as three votive candle holders or three bud vases it creates more visual interest while making each object seem connected with each other.
Accessories

Decorating a fireplace mantel requires selecting accessories carefully in order to achieve an aesthetically pleasing arrangement. From minimal designs featuring just a framed mirror and candlesticks, to more extravagant arrangements utilizing unique vignettes that reflect your individuality, there are tried-and-tested strategies for creating gorgeous mantel displays with flair and personality.

Mixing Wood Fireplace Mantels helps prevent an overly staged and cluttered display, and adds variation in terms of height of objects - as the large oversized frame on the far left balances with both tall vase of poppies and organically-shaped brass candlesticks.

Clustering decorative items in groups of three is also visually pleasing and this Instagrammer @sarahrosewheeler shows us this simple method for adding visual interest in an otherwise symmetrical arrangement.
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