Magical Mantelscapes

Mantels are enchanting, luring the eye and magically transforming a dull space into a homey haven that looks cozy and lived-in. You don’t have to have a working fireplace to have a mantel. Find a mantel you adore and hang it as art, creating a beautiful focal point in any room. If you rent and can’t bolt it in place, lean the mantel against the wall and secure with removable hook and loop tape, anchoring objects on top with museum wax.

A jumble of objects makes a mantel look messy. Matching everything looks too designed. To make the most of your mantelscape, go for a clean, uncluttered look, with a balanced placement of different objects that work well together.
 

• Stark simplicity can add a soothing note to a busy room. A mantel bearing only a single potted orchid surrounded by a scattering of pebbles is refreshingly elegant in its understatement.
   
• A neutral room benefits from an infusion of color. A mantel is energized by a few pieces of vibrant pottery or art glass and a stack of colorful books. Conversely, abold, colorful room is balanced with a monochromatic mantel. Painting the mantel a creamy white and accessorizing it with a curvy white pitcher and bowl flanked by a graceful vase of fresh flowers gives the eye a place to rest.
   
• A mantel is the perfect place to showcase a collection, such as vintage clocks, porcelain figures or unmatched silver. Display the items in use — silver candlesticks holding taper candles that match your décor, silver mint julep cups holding scented rose petals or wisps of decorative grass.
   
• The space above the mantel expands the display. A large mirror is a classic treatment, visually enlarging the room and magnifying the impact of your display. For a more casual look, hang a tole tray or wreath on the wall and casually arrange collectibles on either side.
   
• A mantel is a room accessory that should change with the seasons to keep your room fresh. A scattering of seashells, croquet balls and glass hurricanes filled with candles in sand add a summery feel; leather bound books, a bowl full of gourds and a pair of candlestick lamps brighten up long winter days.
   
• A mantel scarf gives your display a visual backdrop. Be creative. A vintage cotton tablecloth captures the essence of summer; a long woolen scarf adds a whimsical touch in winter. Gold lame and swags of greenery are festive for the holidays, while a fringed shawl makes a cozy companion to bowls of fruit and branches of eucalyptus come fall.