Originally oak fireplace mantels were used for heating and cooking but the modern mantel has become more of a decorative item rather than a functional item. Here are some great professional decorating tips for your oak fireplace mantel.

You need to start by paying attention to your room’s textures, colors, and size and then concentrate on balancing it all correctly.

1. Get Going
If you’ve ever watched the pros you’ll have noticed they have pen and paper in hand as they waltz through the room jotting down ideas about the ambiance they want to create and how they are going to accomplish that. Follow the professionals.

Walk through your room. Jot down ideas that come to mind. After you’ve made your notes sit down and consider things like your entertainment style and what type of entertainment you do regularly. After all that will affect the mood you want your room to portray.

2. What’s The Point
You’ll want to start by selecting a focal point. It might be a favorite painting or photograph. Perhaps it’s your favorite wall hanging. Change your focal point on a whim or by occasion.

Group paintings together or hang a large mirror over the mantel. This always looks great! Make sure you light your focal point correctly to enhance it. Use a spot light, candles, or any other type of lighting to focus on your focal point.

3. Placement
Next you need to create a path that the eye will follow from the focal point to the mantel. Mixing heights, textures, and sizes will give excellent placement.

You can create symmetry by placing items in a vertical or horizontal line. You can also layer items to create a formal atmosphere.

If you prefer asymmetrical designs which give a sense of motion then the key is to balance items visually. So for example two large objects each at the end of the mantle with five smaller ones in the middles would create asymmetry.

You might also consider a radial design which can be created by placing items around the center that are similar in shape and size.

Layers also look great and although they are a little too heavy for the warmer seasons, they really make a statement for the fall and winter months.

4. That’s A Wrap
No matter how you decide to place your décor be sure to follow safety precautions near your fireplace. Don’t place items too close to the fireplace and always use a screen to ensure sparks don’t escape.

If your fireplace is more show than go you can place interesting pieces near the base too. Candelabras with white candles looks great. A huge pottery vase with your favorite tropical plant makes a real statement.

When it comes to decorating oak fireplace mantels there are hundreds of great ideas around. If you need more just do a quick search and you’ll have plenty of ideas to choose from. So what are you waiting for?

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