5 TIPS TO STYLING

A FIREPLACE MANTEL

BEFORE

AFTER

The fireplace is a natural focal point in homes. Here are five tips on how to style one. Once you know these guidelines, you can be inspired with what you have in your own home or what you see on Pinterest. If you are unsure of where to start, start with symmetry.

TIP 1: LOOK AT WHAT IS SURROUNDING THE FIREPLACE

In this house, the TV is next to the fireplace. THE TV STAND IS FIGHTING FOR ATTENTION. I recommend a low profile, simple (clean lines) black media stand. The TV will recede. This homeowner could even paint this stand. Don't over-crowd foot of the fireplace. Keep it simple.
If you have brass fireplace parts — spray paint them: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFNgaKPpc18

If you like seasonal decorating, go simple like the first gallery picture. This allows you to easily add seasonal decor and keep the balance.

TIP 2: DECIDE SYMMETRICAL or ASYMMETRICAL

SYMMETRICAL & SIMPLE

This look creates a calm, restful look
Most people prefer symmetry
In a room that isn’t symmetrical, I recommend adding symmetry to the fireplace mantel to help establish the fireplace as the focal point in the room. The symmetry will also give an asymmetrical space visual “rest.”
It appears the homeowner would prefer a layered look, but I recommend starting with symmetry and adding a little layering here because this fireplace is off-centered and the room is not symmetrical.

ASYMMETRICAL
This look can be be very fun to create and a great way to showcases personal affects, seasonal decor or art.
– I’s typically harder for people who are not comfortable with their decorating sense to accomplish this look
Odd number of pieces (of different shapes and sizes) and balancing them

TIP 3: FIRST, ADD HEIGHT WITH LARGE ART OR MIRROR
This will establish the fireplace as the focal point and give much need height to the room. It will visually raise the ceiling.
Start with finding the one big piece — a mirror, a piece of art, a grouping of art.

If you need extra lighting, this is a great place to add some. Search for plug-in wall lights.

TIP 4: SECONDLY, CREATE A TRIANGLE SHAPE — WITH TWO ITEMS ON EACH SIDE OF THE LARGE MIDDLE PIECE
Largest item in center
Add two "pillar items" to left and right. For symmetrical look add the same items on each side. For asymmetrical, add items that are similar in visual weight, but different than each other.
Place "filler items" in between for a layered look: stack of books, family photos, heirlooms, candles, plants or flowers
Items get smaller as they move outward this creating a triangle
Group in odd numbers

Placing a piece of colorful art above the mantel is the perfect way to establish a color palette for your space. Every designed room needs a defined color palette.

TIP 5: USE ARCHITECTURE AS PLACEMENT/SIZE GUIDELINES
Look at the firebox for art/mirror width guidance
Look at pillars for decor placement guidance