Decorating a mantel after the holidays
Question: After the holidays, my house looks a little bare and boring, particularly the mantel in the family room. What should I do with it now that I’ve taken down the greenery? Hanging above the mantel is a 60″ plasma TV. On either side is a brick wall—one has a hanging basket with greenery and the other has an artificial fichus tree and a recliner. To be honest, I used to have candlesticks and family photos, but I’m a bit tired of that look. How can I freshen it up?
–Zeffie
Answer:
Zeffie, We get that feeling, too. But there’s no time like the beginning of the year to start anew and pare down your look. Here are a few tips to start you down your path of simplicity.
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| A pair on either end provides balance |
Balance, balance, balance Choose items of varying heights, shapes and sizes for visual interest. However, balance is key. Make sure your object groupings balance each other visually, especially in terms of height. Since you have a TV in the center, add height to each side to frame it in. A pair of the Chartres Buffet Lamps on either side is a great look. Plus, with a choice of 10 shades, you can change the color and texture throughout the year. Or, select treasured objects in your home to display. For example, a stoneware grouping, like our Tuscany Stoneware, would look fabulous. Just add a small grouping on the opposite side for balance. To soften the look of the brick wall, we’d recommend replacing the faux fichus with a Terrific Table covered with a Terrific Tablecloth in your choice of fabric.
