
We still have boxes stacked in every room, but the piles have now dwindled down enough that I can crop out the mess. I could hardly wait to start styling the fireplace mantel after I painted it last week.
The first dilemma was what to place at the center of the mantel. I first tried the mirror we had in our previous keeping room, but the proportions were all wrong- too tall and narrow.
The designer teaching a class I took several years ago told us that artwork above a mantel should mimic the width of the firebox opening. I haven’t always followed this, but it does look more pleasing.
I have a couple of possibilities.
Option 1: The Art Gallery
The size is close, and I like the lighter colors against the stone. However, the frame just looks too puny. I have wanted to change it out for several years, but framing is sooo expensive. I could diy a frame, and may do so eventually.
Option 2: The Flower Market
The size and shape is perfect, and the colors coordinate beautifully with the mantel and stone. Maybe too much? Not enough contrast?
I propped up both against the stone and looked at them for a few days.
You had a little hint which one I chose. Everything I used was from our previous house. We had a much bigger home, including two fireplaces, so I have lots of décor to choose from. It would be silly to buy new items when I still love what I already have.
The Flower Market print was in our previous dining room.
The candle sticks were on our keeping room mantel. I love the way the candles pick up the roof color in the print.
The urn and framed Scripture were in our living room. Flowers will add color to the urn- once I find them. Somewhere around here. That may be one thing I freshen with new.
A topiary and lantern on the hearth complete the look. For now.
Much of the house is still a wreck because I have pulled all the décor out of boxes and spread it out so that I know exactly what I have to work with. Messy, but it helps to see how things might work together differently than the way I used them before. A good excuse for the mess, anyway….
Styling the mantel was a welcome change of pace from unpacking and organizing. I try not to think about the stacks-to-the-ceiling in the garage. Maybe tomorrow, a la Scarlett.
Doodles,
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Partying here:
DIY Showoff, Thrifty Decor Chick, Worthing Court, Imparting Grace
SHEILA! I’m so behind with visiting that I did not realize that you had moved into your new home!!! Your stone fireplace is gorgeous and you have accented it beautifully! I still have that purple transfer platter that I saved for you!
I know it’s tiring–but isn’t it SO invigorating too!
This is the best time to REthink the uses of all kinds of things–switch things around, use things for a whole new purpose in a totally different room! It’s the best part of moving!
Things are lookin’ gOOd, can’t wait to see more!
Catherine
Of Yes, I like option 2 the best as well. Looks so warm and inviting. How fun to be decorating the mantle and the color you painted it is beautiful.
Shelia, your mantel looks lovely! The flower market artwork is so pretty and the frame provides such a nice contrast on the rock. You have done a beautiful job styling this vignette! I know it must be like Christmas ever time you open a box- you lived in the camper for such a long time! Keep those pictures coming; I just love seeing them!