How to Arrange a Mantle

It's the million dollar question, and I thought a quick blog post would help refresh even myself on this decorating 101 topic. After all of the holiday decorations have outstayed there welcome, I tend to leave my mantle completely bare, maybe it's some sort of subconscious cleansing after the overload of garlands and wreaths. It's around this time of year where I am ready to see something up there again that reflects the personality of our home.

As with the design and decoration of any space, be sure to keep these buzzwords in mind:

Proportion

Balance

Focal point

Contrast

Here are three of my go-to mantle decorating concepts:

1. Make a statement with a large piece of art. Choose a piece that commands attention and has the right proportion of width and height.

2. Use a collection of smaller art pieces to create a theme motif. The key to making this work is to have varied sizes. It's OK to lean things against the wall and allow them to overlap. It creates interest. Maybe add some blooms or smaller collectibles to soften up the hard edges. You still need something large to ground the mantle, as well as a contrast of shapes, sizes, and colors. Think of it as the launch pad for your personality.

 

all via pinterest

3.  Create a symmetrical, or balanced arrangement. This is a more classic, or traditional approach, and hard to get wrong. Again, anchor the space with something larger, or visually heavier, and flank it with smaller objects. For example, a mirror with two vases of buds on either side.


There are so many wonderful directions you can take it. Which do you perfer?