How To Create A Summer Mantel with Character

Here’s a few simple tips that you an use to create a summer mantel with character in your home this season! 

Home has become even sweeter over the last couple of months. I’ve spent a lot of time wrapping up projects and rearranging this and that. With summer on it’s way I’ve been freshening up spaces in our home. Today I wanted to share just how I’ve created our summer mantel, adding character by layering. I’m thrilled to be joining many of my fellow bloggers to bring you summer mantel and vignette ideas that you can recreate in your own home. My sweet friend Krista from The Happy Housie is hosting this great group and I know that you’re going to love the mantels they have to share today! 

Our living room mantel is quite simple but has lots of texture and items that have been collected over time. It reminds me of past trips to New England and summers by the sea. It’s cozy, simple and charming! 

Over time and after many failed mantel stylings I learned a few things that have really helped me get the look I want each time. 

1. Layering 

By adding different layers to your mantel verses everything in one straight line, you add interest. It allows for certain pieces to be the star and the others to be supports, all creating a complete design. With this summer mantel I wanted my hydrangeas to really stick out. Whether you’re using real or faux blooms, they’re a great star for a summer mantel. I love the fresh flowers against the vintage wooden frames and rattan vases. 

2. Texture 

Mixing textures is a great way to create a well rounded space. To prevent the hard, crisp surfaces from feeling cold you can bring in rich woods and natural materials. I love the crisp, clear glass of the hurricanes paired with the weathered rattan vases. Mixing metals and glass with natural textures such as flowers, rattan, bamboo, or seashells is a great way to  It’s new mixed with old. It’s fresh mixed with lived-in. 

Mixing textures is a great way to create a well rounded space. To prevent the hard, crisp surfaces from feeling cold you can bring in rich woods and natural materials. I love the crisp, clear glass of the hurricanes paired with the weathered rattan vases. It’s new mixed with old. It’s fresh mixed with lived-in. 

3. Size Variations 

Incorporating different size objects really keeps things interesting and keeps the eye moving. The smaller shorter pieces sit tucked in front of the larger, taller pieces. I gives the mantel an eclectic, homey feel. It feels intentional. I like to have a variation of sizes of decor pieces to prevent the fireplace from looking to boxy or square. It keeps things interesting. 

My motto when decorating my home has always been to decorate with things I love, things that mean something to our family. If you do that then you can’t go wrong. Your home should be a reflection of you. I hope these three tips give you a solid starting place to create a mantel that is reflective of you. Have fun with it and if it’s not quite right, try try again. I’ve discovered that my decorating is always evolving and becoming and I bet you’re the same way. I just love that home is a journey! 

 

 

Today I’m joined by some of my blogging friends who are also sharing their summer mantel and summer vignette ideas. Just click the links below the images to be taken to their post…

Simple Thrifty Summer Mantel Decor at The Happy Housie
Easy Summer Mantel with Peonies at Modern Glam
Effortless Summer Mantel Ideas at Grace in My Space
Summer Shelf Styling Tips at Finding Silver Pennies
Outdoor Garden Bench Vignette at Craftberry Bush

Simple Summer Living Room at House by Hoff
The Summer Edition of our Coffee Bar at My Sweet Savannah
Eclectic Summer Mantel at JoAnna Anastasia
Simple Summer Style Kitchen Shelving at Cassie Bustamante
How to Create a Summer Mantel with Character at Sincerely, Marie Designs

Summer Mantel Decor at Rambling Renovators
DIY Bedroom Plant Shelf at She Gave it a Go
Summer Mantel Decor at Amidst the Chaos
How to Create a Fresh Summer Mantel for Free at This is Our Bliss
Summer Hutch Styling at Clean & Scentsible

Bright Simple Summer Mantel at Tatertots and Jello
Easy Summer Mantel Styling Ideas at Cherished Bliss
Boho Summer Mantel Decor at Life is a Party
Easy Breezy Modern Minimalist Shelf Styling at This is Simplicite
Summer Mantel at Rooms for Rent