6.04.2015

Mantel Inspiration

Happy Thursday friends!

This time next week I will have just 1 day left before summer break!

Those of you that have been reading a while know that interior design is one of my passions and, that our house, is therefore, always evolving.

Our living room is a place where I always find myself trying to leave my mark. While it is well decorated, the color scheme and feel is a bit masculine and traditional for me. Recently I've found myself wondering how I could mix the mantel up a bit...add a bit of spunk to the space!

Here are some mantel inspiration photos I am loving...

First up might be my favorite. I love that it is grounded with traditional pieces, but modernized a bit with the layered look and pops of color.


A close second favorite is this minimal look. LOVE the row of gold pineapples, am a sucker for topiaries, and think the round mirror provides cohesion with other round elements in the space.


You may remember from this post, that I love blues and greens in decor....with a pop of orange, too? SOLD!


I like that the next mantel has elements of symmetry but also isn't completely balanced, and, I also think the fresh flowers and greenery add a great natural touch.


Finally, how funky fabulous is this last mantel?


The other night, I found myself doing a little tinkering (because you know that's what I do when Bryce is out of town...). Here is how the mantel has been styled for the past year and a half or so:


I would love to swap out the large piece of art for a mirror, but that's not an option at this point. The two pieces that MUST stay, in my opinion, are: the cow painting, which was the first nice piece of art I ever bought myself; and Bryce's VMI sword. I also am a huge fan of the striped candles, but wouldn't be opposed to swapping out for a more colorful pair (like these) down the road. 

After shopping around the house a few minutes, here is what I came up with for the time being:


You'll notice, I didn't take anything away, rather just added a few things, to provide a little color and visual interest. 

Thoughts?  

I'm not entirely sure that I'm done tinkering with this spot...

What parts of your home do you find yourself frequently adjusting?

How is your mantel styled?

Have a great day!