Simple ways to decorate the mantle

A fireplace can be a lovely focal point in any room.  As you’ll see in the photos of my home page at www.rightnowredesign.com, we used a large mirror, and just a few items to decorate the mantle, which reflects the modern decorating style of this family. 

When tackling a mantle, there are three time honored approaches, based on balance:

 Symmetrical:  identical objects surrounding a center piece.

 Asymmetrical:  Using items of different sizes and shapes to create a lively, energizing look.

 Radial:  Center item, with a group forming a half circle around the prominent item.

(Think of a collection of watches mounted around a center clock.)

Simple accessories for fall decorating 

This mirror from Ballard Designs is simple and elegant.  I love that you can hang it in either direction, which makes it versatile and adds value to the purchase.  When you get tired of it over the mantle you can use it in another room – think of it in the dining room opposite the table, with candles flickering and the mirror reflecting the light.

http://www.ballarddesigns.com/shopping/product/zoom/altviewmain.jsp?iProductID=10136&Default=view

My clients with children worry about candle safety.  There are several sources that sell battery operated ones, including Crate ‘n Barrel.  I’ve also found them at:

http://www.batteryoperatedcandles.net/round-pillar.html 

(I stayed at a high end hotel recently in downtown Chicago and my husband caught me looking at the bottom of the faux candle in the bathroom)!