I find that the fireplace mantel is one of the most annoying things to decorate! What do you put up there without making it seem cluttered?? First you have to decide what style you like. Do you like symmetry and balance with matching accessories? Or do you have more of an eclectic eye (like me).. The mantel below has two tall vases on either side + two matching floral arrangements, creating that cohesive look & bringing symmetry to the space. The sunburst mirror above the mantel emphasizes the focal point that is the fireplace.
{via LonnyMag}
You could also use a color throughout the design of the space. Like black & gold shown below. Even though the accessories don’t match perfectly, the mantel still looks pulled together because you are sticking to one or two colors.
{via pinterest}
Again this mantel looks pulled together because of the color theme – browns, gold and cream. Using colors to create a cohesive look is my favorite, since I don’t like accessories to be matching and perfect looking.
Some modern fireplaces don’t have mantels
{via LonnyMag}
You can still add interest with framed art & antlers/faux deer head – here’s a deer head I found at Zgallerie – Pretty cute!
This photo collage above the fireplace mantel is so awesome!! Seriously cutest idea. I have my own little DIY project coming up that involves a photo collage. I’ll keep you posted!
{via pinterest}
What fireplace mantel decor ideas do you like? My fireplace mantel is in need of some TLC, so I’m open to any ideas/suggestions you have!
{via LonnyMag}
You could always go super simple with a bold sunburst mirror
I think that if you do decide to go minimal on the decor, you should have a color on the wall or wallpaper/stencil. That way your mantel doesn’t look unfinished or plain
{Source unknown}
Cute shabby chic vintage feel
{via pinterest}
Hope this helps give you some direction in your mantel decorating adventures! 🙂
Xoxo, Melissa & Virginia
House To Home Blog 
Okay, I promise I’m not stalking you! But here’s a question: what does one do when one has done something ill-advised and mounted the flat-screen over the mantel?! I have a loooong mantel, half of which stretches over a painted-white fireplace hearth that looks almost identical to yours, the other/left half of which stretches (in the same long piece) into 3 built-in bookcases. (Does that make sense?) I might have a photo of it on my blog somewhere. Anyway – I need to accessorize on the mantel without making it too busy. Thoughts? Thanks!
Haha it’s ok you can stalk 🙂 hmmm Is there anything on the right side wall next to your fireplace? If not I would say either add some more built ins or bookcases like this: http://pinterest.com/pin/155866837073131407/ or you could create a large gallery wall of photos or framed art work you like – something like this: http://pinterest.com/pin/237424211575219123/
As far as the mantel goes, I would say keep it simple. These mercury glass candle holders lined across the mantel would look gorgeous and they never go out of style! http://www.westelm.com/products/mercury-votives-a903/?pkey=cshimmer-and-shine
Send me a picture/link to your blog so I can get a better idea of your layout 🙂 remaxadler@gmail.com
– Melissa