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Hi People - I have attached a photo of my mantel.. This pic was taken Christmas time but was just wondering if anyone has ideas on how to decorate it year round. The mantel is an odd shape and as you can see the chimney is exposed which makes it hard to put anything too big on the mantel. I love the idea of mirrors and candles on a mantel but not sure how to do it with mine.. Any ideas?

What a beautiful alcove created by that space! How much heat is generated that affects that mantel area and chimney above?

You can use command hooks to hang things on the chimney. I would also consider a couple of plants with foliage hangihg down over the brick-like ivy trailig. Probable have to use fake as there usually not enough light to grow real, but you chan find some fairly good looking fakes these days--

These "irregular" mantles sure do present a challenge. Mine too is not your standard kind. It is a long shelf with the fireplace at one end. The wall above slopes from 8 ft at the far shelf end to about 11 ft over the fireplace.

I'm sure others on here will have some ideas, and it I run across any idea photos I will post them.

Can you provide a picture standing back so it shows the height as well

It certainly is a challenge esp. w/ the pass thru so close by, but an assymetrical layout could be acheived nonetheless. I'd feature something tall or on the wall on the left of the brick chimney and then balance it w/ something noticeable, but lower to the right. Some options for the left side might be framed prints, a vase w/ branches or silks, a taller mirror (perhaps wall mounted, but factor in what it's reflecting). A lantern with fat candle to the right could balance the display. A decorative box/chest or plate on a stand are other options.
The objects displayed should be in scale to the size of this fireplace surround and noticeable as to call attention to this focal point.

If possible, consider bringing the brick that's above the mantel area toward the clock to visually enlarge the area. Also, use left side of the pass thru as an additional shelf to create your vignette. Variations of colors/patterns/shapes/sheens/heights are important when playing w/ this vignette.

Optional display elements could be an extension to your wall clock to create a themed collection. A tall mantel clock, a clock on a stand, more wall clocks could be featured in this area. Create a sense of dimension/depth in your display. A trailing plant (w/ safety in mind) might cascade off to one side to soften all the brick too.

If doable (again, saftey is an issue) extend the display down to the hearth area. A collection of crockery, a copper tub w/ pinecones or logs, a tall pc. of statuary are some potential candidates...emphasizing safety however. Black iron fireplace tools could be anchored from a bar on the brick wall itself. This will help bridge the overall display. Opt for a few eyecatching items vs. visual clutter. Also, keep the rustic feel in mind and take color cues from your decor.

I don't know if command hooks would hold on the brick, does your bricks extend out from the grout or are they even with it, there are metal hooks available that fasten to the extended brick but I don't think anything would work on a corner like yours so your best bet might be to try what Froo suggested. I have leaned items against a mirror above my fireplace and put those little clear plastic circles that go under something to keep it from scratching your tabletop several inches into from of the item so that it did not slide off the mantle. Might work here. I would keep it light weight though.

Wanda

Thanks for all the input! The bricks on the chimney are flush with the grout so I'm not able to use the metal brackets for hanging things and I have tried the command hooks but they dont stay put so I wouldn't dare to hang anything from them... So I'm not sure what other options I may have (the chimney is about 5 feet from the mantel to the ceiling)

Thanks again!

Another vote for Froo's idea to use something tall and thin in the area between the clock and chimney. A tall vase with branches would be a good Jan. choice. Big Lo*ts has/had some silver ones with battery lights and a timer option ( I just bought some after the 1st. : ), )

You could also use a standing wreath hanger to hold a wreath or even a picture. It is a tall rod on a base with a hook at the top to hold the wreath and can stand independently.

A selection of apothecary jars in varying heights and maybe even one lifted on some books or a decorative box filled with season appropriate decor would look very attractive, or a selection of different size candles/candlesticks, or different size lanterns, again with seasonal decor.

Lots of options, just find what delights you.

TTFN,
Candy

Hello Members,

Some ideas for mental decoration:
* Drape garland down the length of the mantelpiece.
* Next, nestle large hurricanes in the garland, one on each end of the mantel for symmetry.
* Finally, hang stockings above the hearth. Simply space them evenly along the mantel. Conceal hooks under garland, and add metal letters for a personal touch.


Thanks and Regards,
John marrison

emoderndecor.com