An Eye-Catching Mantel

Your fireplace is automatically considered the biggest focal point in the room. But what kind of focal point are you creating - a good one or a bad one? There are certain guidelines you should follow when creating a mantel display that will give you a "wow" instead of an "ewww".

There are a few types of mantel display techniques that you can follow depending on your particular taste and style. The first style is called a “Symmetrical Display”. The symmetrical display is when on side of the display is the mirror image of the other side. To create this, you start with centering an item and then basically if you put a candlestick on the left, you would then put a candlestick on the right side as well.

To achieve a similar look with out having to buy two of everything, you can mirror the style or color of your pieces. If you place a red vase on the left, you could place a red candle on the right. If you have a red vase on the left, you could place a green vase on the right. You would still be achieving the balance and symmetry of the symmetrical style, but creating a little more interest.

An alternative style is called “Asymmetrical Display”. This is where nothing is centered, and nothing is the same, but you achieve a visual balance by the size or weight of an item. For example if you place a large urn filled with flowers on the left, on the right you could place a framed painting. The two items are completely different, but the visual weight of them creates a sense of balance making it a pleasing display. A small row of votives placed below the artwork would complete the look.

When displaying pieces on the mantel, you should limit yourself to an odd number of items, including any artwork that you are hanging on the wall. This creates a more interesting and pleasant display. Also subscribing to the theory that less is more, try to limit the number of items that are placed on the mantel. If you prefer a look that incorporates a lot of items, then make sure the entire room has a lot of items displayed, or the mantel will just appear cluttered.

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TYour fireplace is automatically considered the biggest focal point in the room. But what kind of focal point are you creating - a good one or a bad one? There are certain guidelines you should follow when creating a mantel display that will give you a 'wow' instead of an 'ewww'..