5 Simple Mantel Decor Ideas
Looking for some simple mantel decor ideas? Get 5 foolproof fireplace mantel decorating ideas for the perfect, easy combination!
I had such a great response to my post on 5 Simple Decorating Ideas for the Kitchen, that I decided to continue the concept… Starting with 5 simple decorating ideas for your fireplace mantel!
As a focal point of many living rooms, the mantel is such an important spot to define your style. It’s also an easy spot to change up for the seasons and so fun to decorate for Christmas and other holidays… You can see many other mantel decorating ideas here if you need more.
For today, I wanted to share some super simple formulas that can make a beautiful mantel decor for the spring or summer months, no matter what style decor you prefer. Something that is simple yet elegant and not holiday oriented.
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5 simple mantel decor ideas
If you followed our brick fireplace remodel in our living room a few years ago, then you know that we actually have a double sided fireplace with a wood mantel and built-in shelves, which makes for double the fun in mantel ideas! I only styled one side specifically to share these ideas with you, but I’ve mixed in a few views of our other side where it seemed helpful to give you even more fireplace mantel ideas and inspiration.
Here are my easy 5 ingredients for a beautiful, simple mantel.
Mirror
Mirrors are always an easy focal point above a fireplace. I chose this simple round mirror for today’s post, but arched mirrors and rectangular mirrors are great options, as well!
GET THE LOOK:
You can see a more unique convex mirror on the other side of my fireplace works well, too. Mirrors bring more light into your space and create an elegant, neutral mantel decor.
Vintage Art
If you’d like something with a little more personality than a mirror, though (or maybe the reflection is a problem), then a piece of artwork is a great option. You can see a bunch of my favorite vintage art resources here.
GET THE LOOK:
For this summer mantel, I found a few public domain pieces (which means they are not under any copyright) that had beach or water scenes, which complemented the brick of our fireplace surround and seemed appropriate for these warmer months.
Plants
Confession: I’m a bit of a house plant junkie. And mantels are one of the perfect places to display greenery, especially in the warmer months when you won’t be lighting the fire very often.
If you are concerned about keeping house plants alive, check out these favorite low-maintenance houseplants. Succulents are also a wonderful, user-friendly option; get my succulent care guide here.
Or, better yet, consider using faux plants if you like. I’ve certainly done so!
Vases
If you’re feeling extra simple, then skip the plants and just layer a collection of pots and vases. Keeping a simple color palette but varying heights and textures draws the eye without overwhelming the space. Don’t worry about symmetry, just create an organic collection.
GET THE LOOK:
And speaking of texture, baskets bring wonderful texture, and filling them with turkish towels lets them double as decor and storage.
Candlesticks
During cooler months, I love to fill my mantels with candles, but I try to limit the number of candle holders on my mantel for warmer months.
GET THE LOOK:
Still, a small trio of brass candlesticks pop against with fireplace without feeling too heavy.
The perfect formula for mantel decor
As an efficiency freak, I love the idea of finding helpful interior design “formulas,” if you will. Something to help you find a beautiful result without tons of work or money. So here’s my simple formula and tips for creating a simple mantel…
- Start with a large piece of art or mirror
- Add to it 1-2 of the following accents: plant, vases, candlesticks
Combining these items can also give a little asymmetric interest. If you have a hearth, balance an accent on one side of your large scale frame with accessories on the hearth on the opposite side.
More Fireplace Decorating Ideas
I hope you found these fireplace mantel decor ideas helpful today! And thanks to Krista at The Happy Housie, I actually have even more mantel decorating ideas for you. She’s rounded up a collection of bloggers who are sharing diy fireplace mantel ideas. Be sure to pin this for later and visit a few of these gorgeous posts below!
The Happy Housie // A Pretty Life // Modern Glam // Cassie Bustamante
Rambling Renovators // In My Own Style // Finding Silver Pennies // Dans le Lakehouse
Craftberry Bush // Maison de Pax // She Gave it a Go // Hallstrom Home
Deeply Southern Home // My Sweet Savannah // Willow Street Interiors
Love these ideas- all so attainable! Summer is the perfect time for simplicity.
Thank you, Cassie! I agree that summer is all about simple.
Looks absolutely gorgeous!
Thank you, Tanya!
This is so stunning, Rachel! I’m obsessed with each option! xo
Thank you, Laura!
Rachel, thanks for the tips and the links for art sources! kisses ML
You are so welcome, Marcia! xo
Beautiful!!
Thank you!
Great post! I love the simplicity and scale of each of your choices, perfect for the summer time!
I also want to comment that I am so happy you have candlesticks in your candleholders! One of my pet peeves, and I see it often, is when decorators use candles holders without candles in them! If just looks so odd to me. 🙂
Thank you for all your posts, always a pleasure to read.
Thank you so much! And that’s too funny… glad I keep mine filled with candles! 😉
Great tips and ideas! LOVE all your mantel examples!
Thanks so much, Danielle!