The mantelpiece, often the focal point of a living room, has the power to elevate your interior design or completely throw it off balance. Did you know that 80% of American homeowners consider their fireplace or mantel an essential design feature, according to a 2022 survey by Houzz?
Yet, many unknowingly commit décor faux pas that can make this key area feel cluttered, awkward, or downright forgettable. Ready to elevate your mantel game? Let’s uncover and learn how to fix them with advice straight from interior design pros.
Not Considering the Scale of the Mantel
If your mantel is large enough, I love the idea of just laying the boxes out like this. This means that when it comes to mantels, it really comes down to size. A mantel that’s too small or too big will feel out of place.
When seeking harmony, your decor should contain an element or two that complement or tone down the mantel proportions lest it appear overcrowded or get lost in the design.
“A mantel is basically the runway for your living room,” jokes Andrew Scott, interior designer at LuxeSpaces. “If its proportions don’t match the space, it’s like wearing flip-flops to a black-tie event. It just doesn’t work.”
Mantel overcrowding with Decor
Less is more when it comes to styling a mantel. Since it can become overloaded with trinkets, candles, and picture frames, i