Having a fireplace in your living room, bedroom, or kitchen is an enviable home feature. It is a natural focal point in the room and the perfect place to start when decorating.

Once you have the fireplace decoration figured out, you can move through the rest of the room, creating a complementary and cohesive design. Gone are the days of having way too many awkward family photos or your entire collection of candles on display.

Learn how to decorate a fireplace mantel and create a professional quality arrangement and display in your home with our top tips.

Start With a Solid Canvas

Source: @thelittle_white_house via Instagram

Before you start decorating your mantel, give it a once over. The mantel itself can be a part of your decoration, so don’t be afraid to renovate or update it before you start placing items on it.

Some mantels simply require a fresh coat of paint. White is the most popular color because it makes the mantel pop against a color painted wall. If you’re ready for more of a statement, then consider stripping the paint or replacing the mantel with a wood one.

A reclaimed beam will create a rustic or farmhouse aesthetic that adds authenticity to your home. A polished piece of marble will elevate the look of your home, creating a luxurious feel. Finally, tiling over your mantel with a mosaic design can give your fireplace a bohemian feel.

Size and Shape

Consider the size and shape of your mantel. It needs to be proportional to the fireplace it’s mounted over. This is your chance to adjust the proportions of your mantel and improve the look of the fireplace and your room. A slightly deeper mantel can give you more decor spacer, making it easier to have a suitable arrangement.

Balance the Display

The key to having a visually appealing fireplace mantel decor is to balance everything. If you have a tall decorative item on the left, there should be something of a similar height on the right.