To create a striking focal point, consider these eye-catching decor ideas from Instagram and TikTok.
8 Fireplace Mantel Ideas
Updated on Sep. 24, 2024
Fireplace Mantel Decor
A fireplace makes any room more inviting, but you might be stumped on how to decorate the mantel. We spoke to interior designer Diana Hathaway, who shared her best tips for a well-balanced mantel display.
Less is more
“The secret for styling a mantel is to adopt a ‘less is more’ decorating mindset,” says Hathaway. Minimize clutter by considering the height and depth of your decor. “Taller items, like flameless candles and vases, work best as anchors on either side of the smaller decor items,” she says.
Incorporate lighting
“My No. 1 go-to mantel accessory is lighting,” says Hathaway. “With the wealth of string lights available now, the choices are almost endless. Use delicate fairy lights to weave between accessories, and fill in dark spaces.”
She also recommends glass apothecary jars in one or two sizes. “They’re perfect for holding flameless candles and decorative lights,” says Hathaway.
The two-thirds rule
“Aim for two-thirds the width of your mantel for any art or mirror you choose,” Hathaway says. “One large mirror or piece of artwork will always look more polished and balanced than several smaller pieces.”
Intrigued? Now consider some specific fireplace mantel ideas:
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Large Art
One large piece of art might be all you need above your fireplace mantel. Seen here in this example from @mldesignskc, the art creates an elegant focal point for the room.
The organic composition of the painting creates a nice juxtaposition against the straight lines of the fireplace. A good rule of thumb for sizing: The width of the artwork should be larger than the fireplace opening, but smaller than the width of the mantel.
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Something Unique
The fireplace is often near the center point of the room, so the mantel is a great opportunity to display something a little more unique and eye-catching.
Above this fireplace from @jourdanfairchild hangs a large vintage fiber art piece bought secondhand. Vases and simple accessories on the mantel finish the look. Treasure hunt at thrift stores and antique shops to find something truly one-of-a-kind.
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Mirror and 3D Decor
A large mirror is a common choice for mantel decor, but by itself can be uninspired. Here, @allenedesigns pairs a gold-framed mirror with wall-mounted 3D butterflies that add texture and dimension.
Butterflies are a sign of endurance, change, hope and life. If they’re not your thing, here are similar 3D options shaped like flowers and starbursts.
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Leaning Layers
Combine artwork and a mirror on your mantel, like this example from @thebradfordhouse. Displaying the items in a leaning arrangement, with the largest piece in the back, looks good and can be easily switched out when you want a change. No nails or hooks required!
Plants and small accessories provide the finishing touches, providing organic shapes and textures for a balanced design.
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Vintage Finds
The fireplace mantel is the perfect spot to display vintage or antique items, as seen here from @honeyrosehome. An empty frame, window pane, candleholders and figurines in varying wood tones make interesting and cozy mantel decor.
Be sure to include two to three larger items to anchor the vignette. Using only small accessories will look cluttered.
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@ezlivingfurniture.ie Do's and Don'ts – Styling your Mantlepiece ✅❌Don't place individual accessories in a line on your mantle with the tallest piece in the centre.❌Instead group them together in 3 spots on your mantle ✅ Create balance by having taller items on both edges and a smaller item in the centre ✅ Use candle holders in different sizes, a decorative vase with greenery and a decorative bowl to achieve this look ✅It's just that EZ! 🤩#ez #ezliving #ezlivingfurniture #tip #doanddont #stylingtip #homestyled ♬ As it was x take on me by altegomusic – ALTÉGO
Create Groups
Watch this decor tip from @ezlivingfurniture.ie. Instead of placing individual accessories in a line on your mantel, group them together in three sections. Place the taller items on the outer edges and the smaller accessories near the center.
Candleholders and tall greenery create height, while a short stack of books and decorative bowl fits nicely beneath the mirror.
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@beachgrovecafe Sometimes simplicity is best🖤 Our goal when staging this farmhouse mantle was to emphasize it’s beautiful features without overpowering it. Featured items: -Luna Forged candle sticks -Rectangular Riser tray size large -Serena pot -Ancora candle -Black glass beads -Black taper candle holder . . . . #interiorstyling #homestyling #livingroomdecor #homedecor #interiordesign #homestaging #mantlestyling #mantledecor ♬ original sound – jed and the valentine
Black and White
Stick to one color scheme to create cohesiveness in your mantel styling. This black-and-white display from @beachgrovecafe prioritizes simplicity. A few black candleholders with white candles, a potted plant and a couple of small accessories are all you need to recreate the look.
Notice how the cute tray corrals the smaller items so the arrangement looks more intentional instead of messy.
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@lizmarieblog I got plants. What more do you need? #homedecor #springdiy #springdecor #interordesign #farmhouse #cozy #garden #cottagecore ♬ original sound – Shodsantiago
Potted Plants
Our motto is, when in doubt, add a plant! Potted plants (faux or real) can bring life and texture to your mantel.
Watch as @lizmarieblog places several potted plants next to a large mirror for beautiful mantel decor. It’s easy, affordable and works for any season. Use varying heights to create interest, and stick to one color pot or vase for cohesion.
https://www.tiktok.com/@lizmarieblog/video/7075502807855697198
Fireplace Decor Inspiration for Your Space
Whether you’re looking for a seasonal update or a full makeover, these ideas will help transform your fireplace.
- Best Fireplace Decor Ideas
- Fireplace Guard Screens for Safe and Elegant Indoors
- Fireplace Tile Ideas
- Ideas for a Non-Functioning Fireplace
- Ideas for Painting a Fireplace
- How to Decorate Your Fireplace for Christmas
- People Are Filling Their Fireplaces with Candles and It’s So Cozy
- Tips for Building a Fire in a Fireplace
- How to Build a Wood Fireplace Mantel
About the Expert
Diana Hathaway is an interior designer, color expert, feng shui specialist and owner of Gorgeous Color.
