My Experience With Mid Century Modern Fireplace Mantel
As a lover of all things vintage and retro, I was thrilled when I moved into a house with a mid century modern fireplace mantel. It was sleek, minimalist, and added a touch of elegance to the living room. However, I soon realized that I had no idea how to decorate it. After doing some research and experimenting with different styles, I’ve come to appreciate the beauty and versatility of the mid century modern fireplace mantel.
What is a Mid Century Modern Fireplace Mantel?
A mid century modern fireplace mantel is a design style that originated in the mid 20th century. It’s characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes, and minimal ornamentation. These mantels are often made of wood, stone, or brick and are the focal point of the room.
Step by Step Guide for Current Trends on Mid Century Modern Fireplace Mantel
1. Keep it simple. The beauty of mid century modern design is in its simplicity. Don’t clutter the mantel with too many accessories or decorations.
2. Use geometric shapes. Angular shapes and clean lines are hallmarks of mid century modern design. Incorporate these shapes into your decor for a cohesive look.
3. Add texture. To keep the mantel from looking too stark, add texture with items like woven baskets or textured vases.
4. Keep the color palette simple. Stick to neutral colors like beige, white, and gray, with occasional pops of color for visual interest.
5. Use natural materials. Mid century modern design emphasizes natural materials like wood and stone. Incorporate these materials into your decor for an authentic look.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas on Mid Century Modern Fireplace Mantel
1. Use a statement piece. A large piece of art or sculpture can serve as a focal point for the mantel.
2. Mix vintage and modern pieces. Mid century modern design is all about mixing old and new. Incorporate vintage items like brass candlesticks or mid century pottery alongside modern pieces.
3. Use plants. Plants bring life and color to any room, and they fit in perfectly with mid century modern design.
4. Incorporate metallic accents. Brass or gold accents add warmth and shine to the mantel.
5. Use symmetry. Mid century modern design often incorporates symmetry, so try placing matching items on either side of the mantel.
6. Use unique lighting. A statement light fixture or a pair of sleek sconces can add interest to the mantel area.
7. Add books. Mid century modern design values intellectualism, so displaying books on the mantel is a great way to add depth to the space.
8. Incorporate patterns. Mid century modern design often incorporates bold patterns like stripes or chevrons. Use these patterns sparingly on throw pillows or decorative objects.
9. Mix materials. Don’t be afraid to mix materials like wood, stone, and metal for an eclectic look.
10. Keep it functional. The mantel can serve as a functional space as well as a decorative one. Incorporate items like a clock or a vase for flowers to add both beauty and utility.
Pros and Cons of Mid Century Modern Fireplace Mantel
Pros:
- Timeless design that never goes out of style.
- Can be mixed with other design styles for an eclectic look.
- Emphasizes natural materials and sustainability.
Cons:
- Can be difficult to decorate if you’re not familiar with mid century modern design principles.
- May not fit in with more traditional or ornate design styles.
- Can be expensive to purchase or update a mid century modern fireplace mantel.
My Personal Review and Suggestion on Mid Century Modern Fireplace Mantel
Overall, I love my mid century modern fireplace mantel. It adds a touch of elegance to my living room and serves as a focal point for the space. However, I did struggle with decorating it at first. I found that keeping it simple and incorporating natural materials and geometric shapes helped to create a cohesive look. If you’re considering a mid century modern fireplace mantel, I would suggest doing some research on the design style first and experimenting with different decor options until you find what works for you.
Question & Answer and FAQs
What are some popular mid century modern fireplace mantel designs?
Some popular mid century modern fireplace mantel designs include those made of wood, stone, or brick with clean lines and minimal ornamentation.
How can I decorate a mid century modern fireplace mantel?
To decorate a mid century modern fireplace mantel, keep it simple, use geometric shapes, add texture, keep the color palette simple, and use natural materials. Other ideas include using a statement piece, mixing vintage and modern pieces, using plants, incorporating metallic accents, using symmetry, using unique lighting, adding books, incorporating patterns, mixing materials, and keeping it functional.
What are the pros and cons of a mid century modern fireplace mantel?
Pros of a mid century modern fireplace mantel include timeless design, versatility, and emphasis on natural materials and sustainability. Cons include difficulty in decorating if not familiar with mid century modern design principles, not fitting in with more traditional or ornate design styles, and being expensive to purchase or update.