Decorating Ideas for Fireplaces

The Focal Point of the Room

The fireplace, mantel and area above your fireplace probably create the focal point in your room. They should express your individuality and be decorated in a way that sets the stage for the rest of your decor.

The traditional arrangement of matching vases or candles on each end of the mantel with a painting hanging above the fireplace makes an excellent choice for many homes. Designers are now moving away from the symmetrical arrangements and replacing them with more asymmetrical, less stylized decorating ideas for fireplaces.

Leaning versus Hanging Art

Placing artwork on the mantel instead of on the wall lets you enjoy more of your artwork. Consider leaning three pieces, overlapping their edges. Start your arrangement by placing the largest piece slightly off-center on the mantel. Add second and third pieces that are about two-thirds the height of the first piece. Adding small candles or mementos can finish off the arrangement.

Showcase for Collections

Mantels are terrific places to showcase a collection. For an uncluttered look, arrange items that are similar in style, size or color. Displaying too many items might be distracting. You may need to select only your favorite pieces if you have a large collection.

A collection of photographs framed in the same finish provide a warm focus for a family room or bedroom fireplace.

Minimalist Styling

You don't have to add a lot of items to your mantel to enhance your fireplace as a focal point. Painting the wall above fireplace a dramatic color may be all you need. For added emphasis at night you might decide to add a row of votive candles. The fireplace can also be enhanced by placing a tall plant or art piece on the floor on one side of the fireplace.

The Room Makes a Difference

The décor chosen for the mantel and wall above the fireplace should reflect the room in which the fireplace is located and should complement the décor of the specific room.

• Living Room – The arrangement on the mantel and the wall above the fireplace should reflect the style of the room. It usually does not include personal items since the visitors to this room will often not be family members. In traditionally decorated rooms, the mantel could include balanced arrangements of candles, art, antiques and vases. In modern stylings, the mantel is usually kept clear with only minimal amounts of art or candles. The wall over the fireplace in both traditional and modern styles is an excellent showcase for a mirror or a piece of art.
• Family Room – This fireplace can express the uniqueness of the family with art, photos and collectibles. The mantel arrangement is usually more casual, often incorporating asymmetrical styling. The wall space above the fireplace might include a plasma television, artwork or a special collection such as photographs or masks.
• Kitchen – Kitchen fireplaces are traditionally in country kitchens. Hanging decorator pots and kettles in front of the fire adds a look of authenticity. Baskets and metal urns on the mantel add to the illusion of recent use.
• Bedroom – For those homes that enjoy a fireplace in the bedroom, the mantel décor can be very personalized reflecting the special interests of the room's occupants. Family pictures, personal collections and special mementos are always appropriate in this private space.

Don't Forget the Inside

When a fireplace is not being used, it can look like a dark hole from across the room. You can bring visual interest by:

• Arranging candles of all shapes, textures and sizes in the front of the fireplace grate. Mixed colored candles provide a casual, country look. Candles all in one color give a more elegant, contemporary display.
• Adding branches, pinecones and dried flowers to a basket that you can place right in the fireplace grate.

More Decorating Ideas for Fireplaces

• Better Homes and Gardens Fireplace: Decorating and Planning Ideas
• Better Homes and Gardens Fireplace: Design & Decorating Ideas
• Bungalow Basics: Fireplaces
• Sunset Ideas for Great Fireplaces.