Mantel Piece Decorations
The mantel can be challenging to decorate because it tends to be the focal point in a living room. The interesting thing about these ledges is that they are small and can therefore be easily redesigned. This is a useful starting point for any designer looking to quickly change the appearance of a room. Mantels can be decked out according to the time of year or for some other special occasion. The fundamental structure a well-designed mantel is provocative and clean. It should draw the eye without being too dusty or crowded. Fully decorated fireplace mantels are adorned with a piece of art or another wall hanging, a few decorative items, and some smaller frames.
Art & Wall Hangings
There are not really any rules in decorating but generally a large framed piece is hung above a fireplace mantel. This could take the form of artwork, a mirror, even a bare frame or window. The large piece of art above a mantel can be hung on the wall or simply leaned on the shelf. Several smaller pieces can be displayed closely together to give the impression of a larger picture because of the total size. When using mirrors above the mantel be sure to take advantage of the reflection. Not only do they make the room appear larger, they also show off the back of candles and floral arrangements in front of them.
Picture Frames
In addition to a large central piece many designers choose to layer smaller framed pictures on top of the mantel. Ledges are if nothing else against the wall. These smaller frames can be framed photographs, clippings, or more artwork. The style of the frames can complement the fireplace in a number of different ways. They could be made of painted wood or ornamental metal. Some picture frames have more than one face for holding pictures. This can be useful on a mantelpiece where many people like to keep their family photographs.
Decorative Items
The decorative items break up the flow of the shelf and give it more depth. Some people enjoy perfect symmetry on the mantelpiece while others are satisfied with an even balance. For example two identical tall bird charla vases on either side would be symmetrical. However an evenly sized candle stick on one side and a statuette on the other will have a similar feel. Shorter decorative items may do well front and centre because they are low enough not to block the other items from view. A sign, lantern, or a pair of ceramic doves would all be good objects to set in the middle of the mantelpiece.
Different Heights
When decorating the mantel it is as important to play with varying heights as any other shelf. One of the easiest ways to do this is by using stacks of books. Bookends can be used to arrange books horizontally and they can also be stacked vertically. Of course different objects have height to them as well. A multi-tiered candle holder can give the impression of gradation especially when filled with burning candles. Boxes can be used alone or stacked on top of each other to change the lines of a mantel. Another simple way to do this is by rearranging the picture frames so that they rest against each other in a new way.
Interesting Features
If you really think about it almost anything pretty could be put on a mantel to be enjoyed. The problem is arranging these objects in an aesthetically pleasing fashion. Play around with the various things that could go on top of a fireplace. It is not necessary to stick to the same candle holders and vases all of the time. Many decorators like to have at least one interesting feature that looks as though it may be out of place. A novelty item or funny sign brightens up the room and gives people something to discuss with their guests.
