How to style a mantel
I’m back with another styling recipe for you (did you catch my coffee table styling post?) Today I want to share some mantel décor inspiration and my simple recipe for styling your fireplace mantel.
I like to use the analogy of a styling recipe because just like with cooking, you shop for some basic ingredients and then put them together in a specific way to create a beautiful outcome. The best part of this recipe is that it looks good on any mantel and can be adapted to any style!
A fireplace is often the natural focal point in a room - the place where your eye automatically goes to. I like to capitalize off of this architectural focal point and really give it a wow factor with some beautiful accessories. Because there are likely already some other elements happening such as tile, brick, or stone, I like to keep the styling impactful but simple. You want whatever fireplace mantel accessories you select to enhance the overall look. My go-to mantel styling recipe is made up of three key components: a mirror, a vase with some greenery or flowers, and a set of candle holders. Let’s explore how you can combine these elements.
Start with a mirror
One of the main reasons I love a mirror instead of artwork above a fireplace is that you can easily switch up your mantel décor for different seasons. For example, at Christmas, I love to deck out my mantel with garland, stockings and other seasonal items - this works really well with a mirror as opposed to artwork which might clash with my Christmas colour scheme. In addition to being neutral, it takes away the pressure of finding the perfect piece of artwork that works throughout every season. Just make sure you choose a mirror that is the right scale and proportion - it should take up about two-thirds of your mantel.
Add a vase (or two!)
The next ingredient to add to your mantel is a vase with some fresh greenery or faux flowers. You can either use one vase on its own, or you can go with a set of vases in two different heights. Group your vases together and place them to one side of your mirror.
Finish the look with candle holders
The last part of my simple mantel styling recipe calls for a set of candle holders. Because candle holders are rather small, I recommend grouping a set of them together for more visual impact. Style your candle holders on the opposite side of your vases.
Now that you’ve got the recipe, let’s look at a few specific mantel styling examples for creating a look that suits your personal style.
Get the look: rustic mantel décor
By incorporating some natural and wood-tone elements, you can give your fireplace mantel a rustic style. If this is the style that resonates best with you, I would recommend combining the Isaac Wall Mirror, these Vander Vases and a set of the wood-detailed Oona Candle Holders.
Get the look: modern mantel décor
If you are more of a modern minimalist when it comes to home style, then you will want to incorporate metal finishes and interesting geometric shapes into your mantel styling recipe. The curved Leya Mirror in black or brass would pair really well with the Callen Vases and the set of Ferrah Candle Holders.