Decorating a Mantel

Photo: Jean Allsopp Stylist: Lisa Powell

Southern Accents

Southern Accents

This one is more elaborate for Christmas, but a beautiful look too. Southern Accents Photo: Pieter Estersohn Designer: John Bobbitt

Here’s an idea for those of us who love seashells and plates. You can see the pretty arrangement of plates in the mirror used with another mirror in the center. Again, this mantel arrangement is simple but effective. Photo Laurey W. Glenn Stylist Mary Leigh Fitts

This room has lots of color and I also loved the arrangement on the side table with the two monogramed lamps and large artwork. Looks like a mirrored wall above the fireplace, along with a round mirror leaning with 2 side floral arrangements.

Another traditional arrangement, this one has 2 large finials and 2 floral arrangements, along with a simple gold mirror. Coastal Living Photo: Rob Melnychuk Stylist: Nina Hamilton

Love this above room completely! Beautiful mantel with 2 striking sconces, one piece of art that’s hung on the wall and another one leaning. I love the leaning look, but haven’t quite got that mastered yet. Note most of the accessories are large pieces. Southern Living Photo: Jean Allsopp

Here’s one with a brick fireplace for those of you who have these. It’s neutral, so blends right in with the room and the mantel is stained dark. Very pretty room and the 2 light fixtures mounted right on the mantel is striking too. Southern Living Photo: Jean Allsopp Stylist: Lisa Powell

I love the asymetrical arrangment on this one, meaning it’s different on both sides. See how the tall finial on the right complements the tall sticks or maybe feathers on the left? And the gothic arch makes a nice statement as the centerpiece. A simple low wooden bowl completes the arrangement for the middle. Lots going on, but it’s not too busy. Southern Living Photo: Laurey W. Glenn

Another symetrical look, the above mantel is very striking with the red brick and black surround. If this was my room, I’d paint out that brick a creamy color. Love the frames on those prints and the floral arrangements that flank them. Simple, but very pretty and effective. Southern Living Photo: Laurey W. Glenn Stylist: Mary Leigh Fitts

Another simple mantel of florals and a large mirror. I especially love this pic for the sofa table, with 2 lamps, large artwork and the plates surrounding it. Love it against the chocolate walls.

Hope this gave all of you with mantel dilemmas some fun new ideas that you can take home with you and try out on your mantel! Let me know if you try any of these so we can all take a peek.