Fireplace Mantel Styling Tips

A fireplace is often the focal point of a room, but many find it difficult to decorate the mantel. The trick is to create layers to get that perfectly styled mantel you’re looking to create. 

Source: Tidbits & Twine

Layer 1 is the anchor. The anchor is a large piece such as a mirror, art, or even a flatscreen tv. This anchor piece should be the tallest object in your overall design and should fill a large portion of the space. An anchor that is too small or too big will look off. A good tip is to make sure that whatever you’re using as an anchor visually balances the firebox below.

Layer 2 is the weight. Choose items to place on both the left and right sides of your anchor that will add width and visual weight to your overall design. These items don’t need to be the same, though they can be, just as long as there is balance on both sides. Items of similar weight, size or scale can create that visual balance. For example, tall candlesticks on the left of the anchor and stacked books with a plant on top on the right. 

Source: Magnolia Market

Layer 3 is the filler. This layer is optional depending on the look you’re going for. If minimal is your thing, skip it. Otherwise, you can add objects of varying height to the center of the mantel, underneath/in front of the anchor. Keep these items smaller in scale than the objects used in layer 2, but still proportionate. 

Following the layering steps above will help you create the stylish mantel you’ve always wanted. Switch out items for the seasons or different holidays and have fun with decorating your space!

Fall Home Decorating Tips

Summer is almost over and fall is on the way here in Raleigh/Durham NC! With that comes cooler temps, shorter days, pumpkin everything (yum!), changing leaves, and also, fall decorating! Here are some ideas to spruce up your space for the season. 

Add Texture

Think velvet, faux fur, and chunky knits. Thick, warm, soft materials such as these bring a coziness to your space. Items such as pillows and throw blankets are an easy, budget friendly way to incorporate texture. Add some woven baskets for stylish storage. 

Layer

Similarly to adding texture, make your space cozy and inviting by layering fabrics such as blankets, drapes, pillows and even rugs. Use items with different textures, patterns and coordinating colors for a pop of visual interest.

Incorporate Fall Colors and Patterns

When I think of fall, I think of patterns like plaid and colors like burnt orange, burgundy, gold, forest green and brown. Bring these colors and patterns in to your space through art and accessories, pillows and blankets. Luckily Target, HomeGoods and even Michael’s makes this extra easy on you!

Bring Outdoor Elements In

Glass vases with stems and greenery from the trees outside, pinecones, leaves, and small gourds are perfect to create a fall inspired feel inside your home. The best part is you can find most of this for free in your own yard! Or enjoy a fall scavenger hunt by going on a family walk.

Do you have any fall decorating tips we haven’t mentioned here? Let us know in the comments!

- Kerri