Joanne Graves

The Secrets of Creating a Fabulous Mantelscape



Posted: Thursday, March 05, 2009

by Joanne Graves
Mantelscapes

When decorating your mantel, remember to use elements that you enjoy looking at and reflect your own personal style and soon you are on your way to creating a Mantelscape . A mantelscape is a unique grouping of decorative accessories tastefully arranged on ones mantel, also known as mantel decor. By decorating your mantel, you are making it into something fabulous to look at all year long. There are a few fundamentals to decorating your mantel that can help make the process a little easier.

First you should decide whether you like a symmetrical mantel design or an asymmetrical mantel design. A symmetrical design is like a mirror image of each item on each side of the mantel. An asymmetrical design is a little harder to pull off, as the elements of the design are not the same in height, mass or shape and still have to create a balance that is pleasing to the eye. Asymmetrical designs tend to be more modern or contemporary, but also can be an eclectic array of traditional items. Whether your mantel decor is symmetrical or asymmetrical, you need to begin with a foundation piece, such as a large mirror, a piece of artwork (or two), or a large clock. Next, decide whether you want to center that piece (symmetrical) or place it askew (asymmetrical).

After you have made that decision, you should gather objects from your home that you enjoy looking at, or begin shopping for new elements to complete your design. Your style may be traditional, country, French country, formal or relaxed and you must choose your design elements accordingly. Having a design in mind before hunting for accessories is advisable, but sometimes one unique find will spark an entirely different idea. It's all in what you choose and mantel decor appeals to your particular style. Start by adding the larger elements, and then completing the look with smaller objects. Try to create a balance to the design, which means one side not being heavier with objects than the other. It is very important not to overwhelm your mantel with too many objects either. You have to edit your collections, and only choose those items you love. Remember your mantel is usually the focal point of the room, and it should be decorated accordingly, and not be an afterthought.

If you do not have the time or feel that you don't know where to begin picking mantel decor or just plain lack the talent yourself, go to www.mantelscapes.com, a website that sells predesigned and prepackaged Mantel decorations.

Joanne Graves is an interior decorator and co-owner of Mantelscapes.com. Her business was formed when she and her business partner and best friend, Beth Lindstrom, realized that many people don't decorate their mantels because they are either unsure of what to do, or they just don't have the time. As working mothers they know that time is a precious commodity so they created a company that sells prepackaged, predesigned mantel displays.  Knowing that the home is a place to find beauty and comfort , they are assisting homeowners in creating a professionally designed mantel displays.  To view our beautiful Mantelscapes go to http://www.mantelscapes.com. Joanne hopes that her articles can help you make your home a haven and your mantel a beautiful focal point to your room.
This Article has been viewed 783 times. (Not updated in real-time.)
No comments yet.
We want your comments! If you can read this, you don't have javascript enabled, so you can't use this comment system. Please enable javascript.