Decorating Tips for a Large Fireplace Mantle
A large fireplace automatically creates a commanding focal point for the living room or family room. With all eyes focused on the fireplace, its mantle is the ideal place to display art and accessories that deserve attention. Take care to select items for the mantle that are worthy of that position and that complement both the fireplace and surrounding area of the room. Does this Spark an idea?
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Pay Attention to Size and Proportion
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A large fireplace and mantle require a few large-scale pieces instead of numerous small ones that merely fill the space. A tiny object next to a massive one will be lost as will a group of tiny objects or photographs. Remember that a large fireplace is noticed from a distance, so accessories should be too. Think in terms of a dramatic piece of pottery or sculpture or a tall floral arrangement. A large mirror or framed art is a standard accent for above the mantle, but a grouping of wall art can also suit the scale of the area. For a formal look, create symmetry with similar items on each side of a central mirror or framed piece of art. For a more casual look, achieve an asymmetrical balance by offsetting a mirror or framed art and placing singular items to one side.
Work With Colors in Paint, Wood and Masonry
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Respect a large fireplace and mantle as king of the room, and coordinate colors that complement those found in the wood, stone, brick or painted surfaces. Select items that contrast adequately with the fireplace and mantle so that they do not fade into the background. Choose contrasting or complementary colors that will enhance the colors they are placed near. For example, accent warm reddish-brown tones of a mahogany mantle with blue pottery or a painting containing shades of blue. View selections from across the room to test their dramatic appeal before you make them permanent.
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Complement the Architectural Style
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Determine if there is ornate carving on the fireplace mantle or if the surface is smooth and shiny. If the mantle has traditional or old-world charm, art and accessories should reflect the same style. Grace it with large, antique-looking urns or candlesticks and a reproduction of a painting by one of the old-world masters in a gilded frame. If the mantle is contemporary, perhaps a single oversize piece of modern art in vivid colors may be all that is needed. Or a series of simple but large-scale geometric objects may add visual interest. Dramatic floral arrangements can also be traditional and formal or contemporary and casual.
Achieve Balance With the Hearth
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Particularly with a large fireplace, the mantle needs to coordinate with the hearth. Items on the mantle should complement the hearth in their quality, quantity, style and colors. Cheaply made items in either area will detract from the other. A heavily accessorized mantle above a bare hearth will appear top-heavy, and a hearth heavily laden with objects will compete with the mantle for attention. Both areas should include items that are in the style suggested by the mantle. Repeat favorite colors used in mantle items in objects for the hearth and vice versa.
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References
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