9.12.2015

current obsession // mantel designs


We just recently moved into a new rental house.  And we love it!  It's a little roomier and we are so glad to have a backyard for the pups, but it did come with a few challenges... #1: a giant wood paneled fireplace/mantel.  Even with a design background, this was a challenge I have not yet encountered.  Mantel design is somewhat of a science, but it's rules are also meant to be bent.  To me, it's the focal point of a room and can set the mood for the entire space.  It can also help harmonize the design of the room.  

Since the harmony, balance and mood of my home is very important to me I have been currently obsessing over mantel designs.  OBSESSING!  Even more so since the holidays are coming up.  I took to Pinterest to find some ideas that incorporated items I already had, like old shutters, a salvaged window and candle holders.  Well I found TONS of lovely inspiration, so much so, that I thought I'd share with you.  I've also included my final mantel design at the end. 

Hope you enjoy perusing as much as I have!

Eclectically Vintage Eclectic Home Tour – Jenna Sue Design http://eclecticallyvintage.com/2015/01/eclectic-home-tour-jenna-sue-design/ via bHome https://bhome.us:  

matel decorating ideas | Do you have some living room inspiration to share? Is your television ...:  


white on white - and I like the white paneling above to further accent the fireplace.:


L O V E vintage style decor with old window frame instead of silver cups glitter dipped mason jars!!:  


Tips for Decorating a Mantle | 20 Mantle + Bookshelf Decorating Ideas from HGTV --> ... | Diva Design:  


I want that frame with a wreath that I have made in it :):


What's not to love about this sweet spring mantel? Old window + small potted plants + sweet print = spring love! #BringInSpring:


Gorgeous Summer Mantel Idea:


https://www.pinterest.com/pin/78883430950837760/


How to Decorate a Mantel All Year


Pinning for the frame with the E:

And a few with some holiday spirit...

APA- 15 Fabulous Fall Mantels - SNAP! (2014, October 12). Retrieved February 7, 2015, from http://snapcreativity.com/fabulous-fall-mantels/:


Mantel inspiration for Fall decor! #HomeGoodsHappy:


Thanksgiving mantel inspiration


Like the bookshelves by the fire place. Christmas Mantel - The Lilypad Cottage:


50 Gorgeous Christmas Holiday Mantel Decorating Ideas (just saw those Stockings with large initials, by Mudpie!):


A WHOLE BUNCH OF CHRISTMAS MANTELS:


After hours on pinterest and several iterations later I finally came up with a winner.  Our style is somewhat a mix of island eclectic and rustic, so I chose to incorporate items that showcase this. I really love how it turned out and even ended up making a fabric wreath from our left over wedding fabric to tie it all together.  There's nothing better than decorating your home with things that hold fond memories.



I plan to keep the shutters & window and change out a few of the smaller items to transition into Fall and then again for Christmas/Winter.  I'll try to do another post showing these as well.

If you are like me and are feeling a little overwhelmed with a huge blank mantel, just remember some simple tips:

1)  Start with a large focal piece or two

2)  Add objects of varying heights and textures in groups of 2 or 3

3)  Layer art and add smaller items to fill in

4)  Make sure some items are sentimental/meaningful

5)  Books help add height and color

6)  Greenery/flowers and fabric can soften the look

7)  Try to only use 2 basic colors in the design - for example: blue and turquoise - this will help keep the look cohesive and not too busy

And 8)  Just have fun and don't be afraid to try many layouts before you get to your perfect one!



Thanks for reading and I hope you've enjoyed this bit of mantel inspiration.  :)





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