I’ve always been very particular when styling my mantel, but after seeing Nate Berkus’ many fireplace looks, he’s proven that it’s not about what you put on your ledge, but how you do it.
Taking to Instagram to share his past projects, Nate proves that mantel decor ideas come in many forms. From rustic vases to antique candle holders, the world’s your oyster; you can put pretty much anything on a mantel, but it’s the artful balance of these objects that will determine the impact of your display.
Making me rethink how to style a mantelpiece, Nate’s spaces have encouraged me to think outside the box and give even the most unconventional pieces a chance. With a meticulous eye, your display will appear curated, considered, and contemporary, no matter the object.
I’d usually be careful not to overwhelm my fireplace, restricting myself to four, maybe five pieces at most to adorn my mantel. However, Nate proves that conventional styling isn’t always the best approach when it comes to creating a successful, unique arrangement.
Take the first mantel project as an example – at first glance, it appears effortless. But like all good design, when you look closer, you can see plenty of thought has gone into the display. Nate has positioned eight rustic vases of all shapes and sizes along the ledge. Ensuring there’s a subtle gap between them, Nate creates two groups of vases that give the area an overall sense of balance and freedom. Instead of lining them up uniformly, he ensures there’s plenty of depth.
There are things you should never put on a mantel, but the versatility of Nate’s spaces proves that pretty much all decor can work in this area, provided you consider height and scale. Take the third project, he’s incorporated two rather large silver taper candle holders, two sculptural vases, and some other trinkets. In the past, I would have avoided such an array of pieces, but actually, by placing the tallest pieces in the middle and balancing the ends of the mantel with the smaller objects, the ledge feels considered and pleasing to the eye.
Instead of meticulously arranging my pieces to sit along my mantel, Nate’s spaces have inspired me to choose a diverse array of objects in different shapes and sizes that will provide impact and variation. By scattering them accordingly and ensuring the middle and ends of the ledge are balanced, you’re bound to have the perfect mantel recipe.
Shop Nate’s mantel decor essentials
Lettie Marble Budvase (Small)
This charming bud vase is the perfect subtle mantel accessory that will elevate your ledge without dominating. Place a singular bright stem inside for a thoughtful arrangement.
Wooden Barley Twist Taper Holder (Tall)
No mantel is complete without a candle of some description. This twisted taper holder would shine solo or provide impact in a duo, positioned either end of the mantel.
Nate positions an array of rustic vases on his mantels, like this charcoal clay vase from McGee & Co. Place it at the center of your ledge to create a statement and balance it with smaller decor.
For a touch of luxury, you can’t go wrong with some marble. Like Nate, you can create an impressive display by incorporating small yet mighty objects. This burgundy trinket box will provide a subtle pop of color and a sense of sophistication.
Penner Picture Frame 5″ x 7″
Metallic accents will elevate your mantel. This ornate picture frame is seemingly simple, but with its thick frame and unique shape, it’s the perfect piece to place on your mantel and pair with some rustic decor.
Late 20th Century Vintage Ceramic Yellow Ochre Pottery Vase Footed Bowl by Ceramicist Yukio Onaga
Ceramics give a mantel depth and a sense of eclecticism. This vintage ceramic vase is delicate and one-of-a-kind in composition, making it the perfect centerpiece that will elevate the area and act as a focal point.
Whether you’re channelling traditional fireplace ideas or a more modern look, Nate’s mantel styling proves that a mantelpiece should never be overlooked – it’s the perfect place to get creative and create a bold and truly unique display.
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