A easy approach to revive a room would be to design the mantel. Attempt one striking piece of art or a layering of mirrors, art, foliage and accessories — the possibilities are endless.

Not sure what sort of accessory would function best with your decoration or where to start? The items I’ve chosen range from the whimsical to the stunning and the rustic to the glamorous; there is something for every style and mood.

I really like the way my mantel is presently styled but have often thought of replacing the mirror using a daring bit of art much like ones below. I’d then place the curvy candle holders on each side with the sexy papier mâché bowl somewhere in the center. I’ve been inspired and I expect you’ll be too. Happy styling! — Vanessa from Decor Happy

Conventional Accessories And Decor – $16.50

These artificial branches are both lifelike and will have more staying power than the actual thing. They’d bring height to a mantel since they are 38″ tall.

Anthropologie

Blazing Poppies Wallpaper – $148

I adore the notion of framing gorgeous wallpaper and leaning it on a mantel. All these poppies add a burst of colour and are a true show stopper.

Contemporary Wall Mirrors – $179.95

Mirrors never go out of style. This octagon mirror in an antique gold/silver end would dress up an uneventful mantel.

Conventional Mirrors – GBP 295

The antique finish and the beading with this mirror will bring an Old World yet classic feel to your space. Without going over the surface, it oozes glamor.

Vanessa Francis

Red Vase Art by Clarence Porter

I am totally in love with this chalk pastel painting. The light, shadows and makeup are brilliant. I’d lean it on the mantel with black and white photos to get a layered appearance.

Etsy

Paris Photo Street Scene by Paris Plus – $25

There is nothing more graphic and beautiful compared to architectural photography of some of the great cities on the planet. This one shot of a charming, narrow street in Paris is magic.

Vanessa Francis

Vintage White Ceramic Pedestal Bowl – $38

This classic white ceramic pedestal bowl would look charming perched on some small books. You might find something similar at your local vintage or thrift store.

Etsy

Zebra Print by Kristine Lynn – $20

A simple black and white framework across this zebra photographic print may look spectacular leaning on a mantel.

Etsy

Paper Mache Vessel Black and Gold The Wavy by Etco – $25

The gold leaf interior of these curvy papier mâché bowls would dress up any mantel.

Pottery Barn

Square Vases – $12

Whether fresh flowers or branches or dried, these simple but classic square vases are going to have a back seat to anything is placed in them.

Pottery Barn

Turned Wood Pillar Holders – $24

You can’t ever go wrong with a trio of candle holders of varying heights. Alternately, two of the greatest candle holders placed side by side or on each side of the mantel create a statement as well.

Vanessa Francis

The Sisters in Paris Drawings by Gino Ricca – $50

I love these charming line drawings signed by the artist in 1966 in Montmartre, Paris. They’d definitely spark dialogue plus also a closer look.

Crate&Barrel

Corfu Candleholder – $59.95

I’m smitten with the elongated curvy shape of these artisan candle holders in a bronze finish.

CB2

Wood Tops Place of Five – $49.95

These sculptural objects made to resemble a youth toy are crafted out of wood reclaimed from old Indian railway ties. How cool is that? They’d add a whimsical element to a mantel.

Contemporary Artwork – $1,000

Occasionally art is all you need above your mantel. A 36 by 36 inch canvas is the best size with 9 foot ceilings. I really like this artist’s work (she’s a fave with many bloggers) and the fresh color palette of the painting will recharge any room. I will own one of her bits some day!

Eclectic Mirrors – GBP 375

This honeycomb mirror is exceptional and the gold finish with black detail is stunning.

West Elm

Mother of Pearl Boxes – $34

Little, decorative storage boxes are another mantel essential. This mother of pearl is pretty and stylish.

DwellStudio

Pebble Double Bulb Vase – $63

The texture of these sculptural artisan-made glass vases seem reptilian to me. Although not a fan of reptiles, I love these.

Contemporary Artwork – CAD 400

This large original painting will add warmth to a room when hung over your mantel and is surprisingly inexpensive. I’m proud to say I own a Matt LeBlanc original. The thickness and moodiness of the paintings are better when seen in person.

Vanessa Francis

Antique Mirror Sconces

Elegant with a beautiful patina, these wall sconces would add a warm glow and personality to your space.

I recently changed my mantel and I must say I think it’s the very best it has ever looked. The 1930s big brass candlestick holders I found at an antique market come to life in front of a Schumacher wallpaper sample. Paintings and yet another wallpaper sample inject colour while the blossom and tree cuttings in the garden add lifetime.

Next: More art and accessories for styling a room

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