After contemplating for three years, I finally painted the fireplace white, and surprisingly, I love how it looks now. The white brick serves as a neutral backdrop for all my decor items. However, with a large fireplace and a long mantel, I sometimes struggle not to overcrowd it. Finding the right balance of “stuff” can be challenging, especially with fluctuating preferences and hormonal changes. Let’s take a look at the evolution of styling the fireplace mantel over the years.
Fireplace Mantel: September 2022, Brand New
When we first moved in, the mantel was quite bare, and we hadn’t painted the new brick on the floor yet. It’s interesting to see how the space has evolved since then.
Fireplace Mantel: July 2023, First Living Room Reveal (Real Simple Shoot)
For the Real Simple shoot in July 2023, the mantel was styled with eye-grabbing paintings and accents of black and wood, creating a visually appealing setup.
Fireplace Mantel: November 2023, Rugs USA
Six months later, the mantel was restyled by Rugs USA with a mirror and branches, adding a touch of warmth to the space.
Fireplace Mantel: April 2026, Fresh Styling
In the most recent update, I added layers to the mantel, incorporating a mix of art, books, and fresh flowers, creating a harmonious and inviting vibe in the space.
Overall, the evolution of the mantel styling reflects my journey of finding the right balance in the living room. Which version would you choose to live with?
*Photos by Kaitlin Green (unless credited otherwise)