How to Decorate a Mantle with Pictures (2024)

The focal point of a living room is the fireplace, so it’svery important to decorate it with a bold and captivating style sure to impresshomeowners and guests alike. One easy and resourceful way to do this is to usepicture frames. Here are some exciting and innovative tips to incorporate theminto your mantle décor.

• Use a variety of picture frames whendecorating. Use small oval pictureframes, antique glass picture frames, round wooden frames, and largerectangular frames to add visual interest. For a cohesive look, make sure allthe frames are the same color. Make them all gold or silver or aquamarine; justhave them match in shade.
• Decorate with an odd number. Use 3 or 5 or even9 picture frames. Using an even number is not as visually appealing, but itwill create a cleaner, classic look. Choose according to individual style.
• Use black and white photos to create unity onthe mantle. Black and white photos also help to convey the emotion behind eachphotograph, so choose important moments and people to display. The subjects ofthe photographs should be visible at least six feet away, so the added clarityfrom black and white photography is invaluable.
• Balance your picture frame with a large mirroror piece of art. Make the shape of theart or mirror vary from the shapes of the picture frame. For example, if youused all round wooden frames, make your artwork a big rectangle. Keep the eyeinterested as it moves across your mantle.
• Fill in the gaps on the mantle with smallpieces. Add candles, figurines, or glassartwork to add to any unnecessary empty space. Candles can provide extra lighting to pictures and give them a beautifulsepia glow which is quite enjoyable.
• Use layers. Picture frames can lie against each other to create a dimensional look.Place the largest frame in the back and the smallest in the front. Make surethey vary in height and width, and have them touch to create a sense of balanceand unity.
• When there isn’t a lot of space between theceiling and the mantle, use fewer picture frames and smaller artwork. Less is more, particularly in this case.
• Double the impact of your décor by placing amirror directly in front of your mantle on an opposing wall. This will help open up the room and providebalance to the visual scale.
• Consider changing out décor according to theseason. Nothing is more festive than a beautiful evergreen wreath or gorgeousorange pumpkins placed carefully on the mantle to signify the change inseasons. Switch out the photographs inthe frames to emphasize the holiday decorating.

1st Jun 2017

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