Today, fireplaces are the focal point in almost any room. It therefore beats logic that the fireplace mantel has to be decorated and styled in order to have something that is customized to your own preference and taste. Decorating a fireplace mantel is not a mind wrecking issue. It needs a few small accessories and some changes in texture and color to bring a whole lot of difference to your room. You need to spice up your room by decorating the mantel so that it doesn't feel plain and dry. You may want to work closely with a specialist especially if you are installing a new mantel. But if you already own a fireplace mantel and still feel you can decorate it on your own, then here are a few tips to help you get it right.
When thinking of the items that will help you customize your fireplace mantel, think of those you love and treasure. These should be the pieces that can accessorize your mantel. Of course you want to choose the very special ones. You can put a large piece of art on the mantel but make sure that it is at least 2/3 of your mantel's size. You don't want to clutter your mantel, so avoid too many knick knacks or mementos. Just keep it simple!
Most people don't know which is better than the other; symmetry or asymmetry. The good news is that you can choose either of two depending on how you want your room to look like. If you choose to decorate in symmetry, it means that the right side is the exact duplicate of the left side. Choose symmetry if you want to have a more formal atmosphere. And if you apply asymmetry in your decoration, it means that the left side is quite different from the right and your room feels more relaxed and causal. So, if you hold formal dinners or meetings quite often, it is proper to go for the symmetry style when decorating your mantel. But if you use your room for spending time with your family or just relaxing, then asymmetry is your best bet.
This rule comes in handy when decorating a mantel. You need to choose one tall or large item and have it balanced with three small but related items. This rule works fine for the informal mantel groupings. And if you want to go formal, then one side should look just like the other. For instance, if you have some pairs of identical obelisks or vases, you can set one of a pair on each end of your mantel.
It is advisable that accessories to be placed on your mantel should be in complimentary colors. In fact, make sure that they complement the rest of the room's décor color motif. You can go for accessories with different shades of one color or simply get one whole theme of colors. For a more modern and contemporary look, your accessories should be displayed in uniform color.
It is proper to decorate your mantel with items of varying sizes and shapes. What you need to do is to position them in a way that they don't appear overcrowded. Each one of them should have some space for 'breathing'. Decorating your mantel with several smaller pieces is also fine. Just ensure that you have a good collection to add a casual vibe and show off more personality to your space.
If you want to get better results, it is prudent to decorate your mantel in the same style your house is staged. For instance, if your house has an open floor, has recessed ceiling lights, wall to wall carpet or casual furnishings, you have to choose objects for your mantel that are informal, modern and fun. And if your home has crown molding, high ceilings, hardwood floors, formal dining room and chandeliers, then choosing objects that are historically interesting, sophisticated or traditionally looking can be a wise idea.
You can decorate your fireplace mantel the way you want but knowing what to include is as important knowing what not to. Just make sure that the decoration style of your mantel complements that of your fireplace. If you are looking to install a new fireplace, it is important to consult the professionals. A good thing about professionals is that they are highly skilled both in design and installations, so you are sure of getting value for your money. At Woodwork Solutions we have highly skilled designers and installers who work tirelessly to make your dream come true. We specialize in custom fireplace mantels, custom cabinetry, decorative crown moldings, kitchen remodels and garage door services among other things. Contact us today for a free consultation.
shared a few of my frugal coithlng finds in the past and since my friend, Jen is have a Frugal Fashionista party this Friday, I thought I’d pull a couple of pics out of my archives and join in the fun.a0
I have a few FT/PT spots available Sept 1/12 for ages 1-5. We are ltaoced in the east end in Gardiner Park and are open 8:00-4:30pm Monday-Friday. These spots are ideal for teachers children since we are closed July & August. Please feel free to email me with any questions or to set up a meeting this week.
Kevin Koorndyk
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