Roman shades add soft contrast to geometric lines of fireplace and mantel

Decorating a fireplace mantel is something that occurs naturally at holiday time, but mantel décor can create a design statement any time of the year.


According to the Sheboygan Press, the entire wall where the fireplace is located should be seen as a unified feature of the room. Traditionally, mirrors and family portraits were hung above mantels, but today a bold work of art or a large sculpture can make a strong impact.

The accessories that rest on the mantel should harmonize with the art work. "It's like starting with a clean slate and it all flows together. Take into consideration what's on the wall above the mantel," designer and gallery owner Chrissy Bialek told the newspaper.

The scale of decorative items, and how they balance with other pieces on the mantel, is important. It helps to have the items tie into the décor throughout the room.

Roman shades are an elegant window treatment to offset a fireplace. Colors and fabrics can be chosen based on how they complement wood, marble or tile - the materials used most frequently for mantels. They provide an attractive look for the exterior of the home and add a softer contrast to the geometric lines of the fireplace.