How to Style a Fireplace and Mantel
Gathering Around the Fireplace This Winter? Here's How to Style It
A fireplace is the natural focal point of almost any room. Its architecture commands attention, whether it features a grand marble mantel or a warm brick hearth. That's why it's worth styling a fireplace thoughtfully and intentionally with a balance of form and function. Arranging bowls, objects, and art on the mantel can make a room feel more expansive and "finished." Similarly, decorating with necessary items such as fire tools and matches can inspire you to light a fire more frequently — and there's almost nothing cozier than a crackling fire in the midst of winter. Ahead, see how to freshen up your fire area and style it with minimal effort.
Bayberry Lane Fireplace Screen
No offense to the fireplace itself, but soot-covered brick isn't the most attractive sight. This herringbone-pattern Bayberry Lane Fireplace Screen ($121) creates a prettier focal point that also protects the room from stray embers when a fire is burning. It's a winning option for dressing up the fireplace *and* serving a functional purpose.
Maple Fireplace Basket
This woven Maple Fireplace Basket ($22) has a simple, classic design that looks especially pretty in transitional and modern farmhouse rooms. It's a great place to stash a small fire extinguisher — safety first! — beneath a wool throw blanket.
Blomus Ashi Fireplace Tool Set
No fireplace setup is complete without tools. This Blomus Ashi Fireplace Tool Set ($250) includes a poker and tongs that fit on a stand. The oak and steel are designed to last a lifetime, and the handles feature built-in magnets to keep the tools in place when you're not using them. Smart.
Reighlea Wall Art
Adding art to your mantel can elevate the look of the whole room. This neutral Reighlea Wall Art ($160) can be positioned vertically or horizontally, and the hand-painted embellishments make it look *expensive*.
Uttermost Brixton Aged Black Bowl
When styling your mantel, be sure to add a bowl where you can hide essentials such as matches. (This is an especially smart choice if you live with kids, since you can place the matches out of reach.) This Uttermost Brixton Aged Black Bowl ($192) is crafted from terracotta, then given an antiqued black and gold finish that plays up the water hyacinth base.
Match Cloche
Conversely, you might want to keep your fireplace matches on display in a Match Cloche ($50). Blown by hand, this one features smoke-tinted glass and a neat little cork stopper to keep the matches in place.
Two-Tiered Fireplace Candelabra
If you like the look of a fireplace but don't want to bother with building an actual fire, try this Two-Tiered Fireplace Candelabra ($90). You can load it up with wax pillar candles or faux LED candles, then let the flickering candlelight create ambiance — minus the roaring fire.
Steel Log Holder
If you're lighting a fire, you're going to need somewhere to store your firewood. This minimalist Steel Log Holder ($98) is small enough to tuck away in a corner, but attractive enough to display on the hearth if you prefer.
Dust Pan and Brush
For cleaning up ash and soot, this plastic-free Dust Pan and Brush ($42) is an easy choice. It's made in Germany of metal and beechwood, with a minimalist design that feels timeless.
