Design Inspiration

Inspiration: Memorable Mantelpieces

Mantels and fireplaces provide a natural focal point for any room. Functional or faux, your fireplace is a valuable architectural element that should not be left out when you are thinking about how to decorate your space and display your original paintings and fine art. Cozy up with these inspired images for some ideas on how to fire up your interior style during the winter holiday season and beyond.

Fill the space above your fireplace to make a statement. Nothing draws people in like a flickering fire, and your favorite original art, photography and sculpture are sure to be noticed and spark their interest.

(Image: Photo by GR Home/Graciela Rutkowski Interiors, Courtesy of Houzz)

If you’re decorating for the holidays, don’t be afraid to think outside the box…or beyond the tree! One of a kind displays aren’t just limited to department store windows. Use your mantel to stage a unique holiday art installation and you’re sure to delight your guests.

(Image: Photo by Focus Fort Worth Photography, Design by SAJ Designs, LLC, Courtesy of Houzz)

Mantels and non-working fireplaces make great showcases for your favorite collections. Use a decorative mantel as the foundation for your own art gallery! Feature a mix of your favorite fine art and small sculpture, or anchor an eclectic salon gallery wall of vivid prints and original paintings.

(Image: Photo by Laurey W. Glenn – Southern Living, Design by Historical Concepts, Courtesy of Houzz)

Part decorative element, part art installation, this faded turquoise mantel really blends in while adding to the decor and artwork surrounding it! Try painting decorative fireplaces and mantels to reinvent your room.

(Image: Photo by Shirley Corwin, Courtesy of Houzz)

Decorative and off-season fireplaces also make great homes for collectables and natural treasures, like these oversized shells and corals. The dramatic statement seascape displayed above the mantel draws your gaze in and makes this airy great room feel even more expansive.

(Image: Photo by Orrick & Company, Courtesy of Houzz)

Layering different sized original art and sculpture on your mantel maximizes display space and creates some inspired combinations. Be creative and change your decorative accents to reflect the season. Include some flowers, candles, or plants to add light, shadows and texture. Mirrors also pair well with mantels and arts originals, while adding to the feeling of light and space in your rooms.

(Image: Photo by Christopher Bradley, Design by New Perspective Design Inc., Courtesy of Houzz)

To create classic style, think symmetry. Pairing smaller art and decorative elements around the fireplace is a visually pleasing and effective way to highlight original paintings, statement photography or an important architectural detail.

(Image: Photo by Rachael Boling Photography, Design by Linda McDougald Design, Courtesy of Houzz)

When styling your fireplace and mantel don’t forget the appeal of accessories. You can use a light sculpture like this one to add a gorgeous glow to your decorative fireplace and further enhance the appeal of your art, or an elegant sculptural screen to add a layer of interest in front of your fire.

(Image: Photo by John Sutton, Design by Dan Phipps Architects, Courtesy of Houzz)

Still looking for decor inspiration to light your fire? Visit Saatchi Art’s Art for Above a Mantlepiece Collection now and kindle your creativity with our exquisite selection of fine art for sale…