DECORATING BELOW THE MANTEL
In summer months you can bring visual interest to your fireplace and even maintain the warm flicker of firelight after the summer sunset. Place a rustic iron candle stand or hand crafted glass hurricanes in the firebox. My mother always placed potted ferns in her fireplace during the spring and summer and dispersed unique and varying candle holders among the flourishing greenery.
A collection of earthenware urns softened by a woven basket filled with branches, dried flowers and textural seed pods will put your room's decor in harmony with nature.
On the adobe mantel left, the homeowner is more comfortable with less decoration on the mantel. The wall tapestry has little competition and therefore becomes the focal point of the room. (Right) When decorating your mantel try a layered look. On the wall space above the mantel start with a mirror, metal wall art or framed artwork. In front of the wall decor lean a metal, mosaic or rustic earthenware platter or tray. In front of the tray/platter group tall oversized candles and stacks of books. The layered look is less symmetrical and a more casual approach to decorating.
