5 Simple Mantel Decor Ideas

Looking for some simple mantel decor ideas? Get 5 foolproof fireplace mantel decorating ideas for the perfect, easy combination!

I had such a great response to my post on 5 Simple Decorating Ideas for the Kitchen, that I decided to continue the concept… Starting with 5 simple decorating ideas for your fireplace mantel!

As a focal point of many living rooms, the mantel is such an important spot to define your style. It’s also an easy spot to change up for the seasons and so fun to decorate for Christmas and other holidays… You can see many other mantel decorating ideas here if you need more.

For today, I wanted to share some super simple formulas that can showcase beautiful mantel decor for the spring or summer months, no matter what style decor you prefer. Something that is simple yet elegant and not holiday oriented.

This post contains affiliate links. Click here to read my full disclosure.

5 simple mantel decor ideas

If you followed our brick fireplace remodel in our living room a few years ago, then you know that we actually have a double sided fireplace with a wood mantel and built-in shelves, which makes for double the fun in mantel ideas! I only styled the family room side specifically to share these ideas with you, but I’ve mixed in a few views of our other side where it seemed helpful to give you even more fireplace mantel ideas and inspiration.

Here are my easy 5 ingredients for a beautiful, simple mantel.

Mirror

Mirrors are always an easy focal point above a fireplace. I chose this large mirror for today’s post. This mirror is a simple round modern look, but arched mirrors, rectangular mirrors, and unique vintage mirrors are great options, as well!

GET THE LOOK:

You can see a more unique convex mirror on the other side of my fireplace works well, too. I love the deeper dimension this mirror provides. Mirrors bring more light into your space and create an elegant, neutral mantel decor.

And you’ll notice that they work at different heights. You can lean them up on the mantel or hang them higher up towards the ceiling.

Vintage Art

If you’d like something with a little more personality than a mirror, though (or maybe the reflection is a problem), then a piece of framed art is a great option. You can see a bunch of my favorite vintage artwork resources here. Use a simple picture frame for a more modern look, or try an ornate frame for more vintage style.

GET THE LOOK:

For this summer mantel, I found a few public domain pieces (which means they are not under any copyright) that had beach or water scenes, which complemented the brick of our fireplace surround and seemed appropriate for these warmer months. They act as statement pieces without being overtly seasonal.

Plants

Confession: I’m a bit of a house plant junkie. And mantels are one of the perfect places to display natural elements, especially in the warmer months when you won’t be lighting the fire very often.

If you are concerned about keeping house plants alive, check out these favorite low-maintenance houseplants. Succulents are also a wonderful, user-friendly option; get my succulent care guide here.

Or, better yet, consider using faux plants as greenery if you like. I’ve certainly done so!

Vases

If you’re feeling extra simple, then skip the plants and just use vases. You can use one tall vase as the star of the show. Or you can layer a collection of pots and vases. Keeping a simple color palette but varying heights and textures can create visual interest without overwhelming the space. Don’t worry about symmetry, just create an organic collection.

GET THE LOOK:

And speaking of texture, try other decorative items on the hearth. Baskets bring wonderful texture, and filling them with turkish towels lets them double as decor and storage.

Candlesticks

During cooler months, I love to fill my mantels with candles, but I try to limit the number of candle holders on my mantel for warmer months.

GET THE LOOK:

Still, a small trio of brass candlesticks against the fireplace can create a little emotional warmth without feeling too heavy.

The perfect formula for mantel decor

As an efficiency freak, I love the idea of finding helpful interior design “formulas,” if you will. Something to help you find a beautiful result without tons of work or money. So here’s my simple formula and tips for creating a simple mantel…

1. Start with a large piece of art or mirror
2. Add to it 1-2 of the following decorative objects: plant, vases, candlesticks

Combining these items can also give a little asymmetric interest. If you have a hearth, balance an accent on one side of your large scale frame with accessories on the hearth on the opposite side.

More Fireplace Decorating Ideas

I hope you found these fireplace mantel decor ideas helpful today! Be sure to pin this for later!