The cooler temps here in Calgary this week have made me turn the heat back on and think about lighting a fire! A little part of me weeps as I write this, I really thought we had beaten the odds this year with a spring that was gorgeous and on time! But alas, this is Calgary and we know better. So in honor of these cooler days, I thought I would share some of my favorite ways to style a mantle.
Mantles get a lot of attention during the winter months and holidays, but if you’re lucky enough to have a mantle in your space, they are a great place to add interest and decor all year around.
A mirror is a natural go to when styling a mantle. Two things to consider: what will be reflected? If it isn’t pleasant, think about angling the mirror down to improve the view. And second, opt for a round or oblong mirror, they offer a great juxtaposition against a square fireplace. If your mirror is a touch small, don’t be afraid to layer in front with candles, flowers, or small art, it’s a great way to add depth and interest.
Art is probably the second most common go to. And it’s a great one. If your cherished piece is too small to be hung on it’s own, considering grouping it with other similar pieces – three is the magic number when it comes to grouping. Or why not flank either side with a collection of trophies as shown or anything else you may collect – vases, candle holders, etc.
We often think of dressing up the mantle for Thanksgiving and Christmas, but why not change it up with the season? Swap out elements like flowers, greenery and colours that reflect the time of year and season.
Mantles are also a great place display valued collections or passions.
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And lastly, if you’re blessed with a beautiful architectural feature as a fireplace, let it be. Sometimes simple is best.
Oh my gosh, every time I come to your blog I am just so in love with the design of it and the beautiful images! It’s such a breath of fresh air. I love all these styles and they’re making me so sad that I don’t have a mantel or fireplace to decorate but totally going to save this for when I do one day!
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Oh my gosh! Thank you for stopping by Julia! Happy to offer some inspiration 🙂
xx
Neelam
Great inspiration. Although I don’t have a mantle right now I would love to have one, one day 🙂
Jessica
the way to my Hart
You’re so welcome Jessica! Thank you for stopping by!
xx
Neelam
Some great ideas here and all the images look so cosy and inviting. I’m actually doing up my place right now and we eventually choose a built in wood burning fire as opposed to a mantle. But the next place I do up, I am tempted to go back to having a mantle.
Thank you Nomita! To have a wood burning fireplace would be such a dream, most homes have moved away from them for ‘modern’ gas fireplaces. I hope to have a wood burning fireplace in my next home too! Would love to see yours once it’s all done. Thanks for stopping by.
xx
Neelam