How To Style Your Mantelpiece For Christmas
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6 days ago
Time to hang those stockings
From tree decorating to tablescaping, there’s a lot to think about when it comes to festive decor – and a mantelpiece can be easily overlooked. If yours is looking a little lackluster, we’ve rounded up all the best Christmas mantelpiece ideas.
Christmas Mantelpiece Ideas 2024
Natural Elements
Think of a Christmas mantel and you’ll likely envision some festive foliage, a few red baubles and scattered holly sprigs – but this year, it’s all about the rustic look. From kitchen design to bedroom styling, earthy decor and moody tones have surged in popularity, and they happen to provide some brilliant mantelpiece inspiration.
‘This season, natural elements like dried flowers, grasses, pine boughs and eucalyptus take centre stage,’ say the experts at Imaginfires. ‘Organic materials add rustic charm to your mantle; simply choose a few natural elements and arrange them carefully, leaving space around each piece to develop balance and allow your decorations to stand out.’ Just make sure to keep any greenery safe from heat sources to stop it drying out – and avoid fire risks.
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Wooden Accessories
‘The use of raw, unfinished wood elements is a major trend this season,’ says the Imaginfires team. (It’s especially in vogue thanks to Pantone’s recently announced Colour of the Year, Mocha Mousse, which happens to be a rich brown shade.)
‘Whether it’s a simple candle holder or small wooden ornaments, wooden pieces bring a warm, earthy vibe to your mantle,’ the experts continue. ‘Scale matters, however: larger pieces can dominate the space, while too many tiny details make it feel cluttered. Balance is key – ensure your decorations fit the space without overwhelming it.’
Soft Touches
Too much wood runs the risk of your mantle feeling harsh, so adding a few softer pieces can counteract this. ‘Stick to simple, soft-toned pieces like linen stockings and charming fabric garlands,’ advises the Imaginfires team. ‘The trick is to keep it simple – minimalism is the trend this year. Choose a few elegant accents, and let them breathe.’
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Elegant Neutrals
‘Mixing too many colours and styles can make a fireplace look disjointed,’ says the team. ‘Opt for a harmonious colour palette encompassing soft whites, sage greens, and warm neutrals. This will ensure your decorations complement each other and create a cohesive look. A well-curated selection of ornaments will make your space feel intentional and stylish.’
Handcrafted Ornaments
‘Overusing decorations – especially plastic ones – can detract from a natural, organic feel,’ the experts note. ‘Choose handcrafted pieces that add a personal touch.’ Why not redecorate old, tired baubles, or make your own using air-dry clay?
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Subtle Lighting
To finish off your Christmas mantelpiece, ‘select a few candles or lanterns to create a warm, inviting glow,’ suggests the team. ‘Real or battery-operated candles placed in sturdy holders, lanterns, or brass candle sticks add a gentle light source that complements the natural decor on your mantle. Keeping the lighting subtle enhances the warm ambience without overpowering your decorations.’
Want to make your space look bigger? ‘Place mirrors or reflective surfaces around the fireplace to maximise light. This will bounce light back into the room and enhance its warmth and brightness.’
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How To Style A Freestanding Fireplace
If your home happens to boast a freestanding or bioethanol fireplace (or an empty hearth), there are still plenty of ways to achieve that festive look; read on for some Christmas mantel ideas for a modern fireplace.
String Lights
‘Complement the ambient glow from your fireplace with string lights, elegant lanterns, or candles,’ says the Imaginfires team. (Just ensure the lights are low-voltage and not too close to the heat source.)
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Earthy Minimalism
As with a traditional mantelpiece, ‘keep your decor simple and seasonal,’ advises the team. ‘A small wreath, a few wooden ornaments, or a rustic stocking are all you need to create a festive feel without overwhelming the space. Focus on minimal yet impactful pieces that highlight the elegance of your fireplace.’
Old & New
‘Overloading a freestanding or bioethanol fireplace with too many modern decorations can make the space feel cold,’ the experts note. ‘Instead, pair your fireplace’s sleek design with natural materials like wood, stone, or wool. These materials help soften the modern lines and add a touch of seasonal warmth.’ (Go for sturdy, non-flammable decorations and place them safely.)
Featured image courtesy of Lucinda Sanford. lucindasanford.com
