The simple hearth is the true center of the universe.
~Masanobu Fukuoka~
Are you lucky enough to have a fireplace in your home? If so, it’s likely the heart of your living area, just like the kitchen is the heart of your home. Good feelings and warmth emanate from fireplaces. They have been gathering places for centuries, representing security, hospitality, and safe harbor from life’s storms. This summer, lighten up your mantle by decorating it with favorite warm season collections. 
In summer, when the fireplace is cool, we can still make it the center of the living area and gather ’round its symbolic warmth. Summer gives you a fresh opportunity to decorate your mantle in a seasonal theme, using objects or collections that you already have. Since fireplaces tend to be large focal points in any home, you should lavish all the care on it that you do with other areas of your home.
Incorporate Collections
~Seashells~
Sea stars marching across a mantle are perfect for the season. Anchor each end of the mantle with taller decor, like hurricanes filled with sea grass and wildflowers. 
Sea stars and faux flowers are readily accessible in boutiques or craft stores like Michaels. Better yet, add shells that you’ve collected on family vacations to make your decor even more personal.
Chandelier from Shades of Light
~Books~
Books make for great decor. Pineapple bookends from Target anchor a handful of books and add style. 
Keep the look simple by turning the books around so that only the white pages show. That way other objects can take center stage. 
Featuring books on your mantle is an idea borrowed from a dear friend, Michelle. She displayed old and unusual children’s books on her kitchen mantle, and created such a beautiful display that I had to copy it. 
Be on the lookout for lovely old books at antique stores. Pewter pheasants stand in for book ends.
~Blue and White~
Did we mention that we’re big fans of blue and white? Three rustic urns look beautiful with the stone mantle. Place two on one side and one on the other for an asymmetrical look.
Decorating the mantle for summer is as easy as wandering about the house gathering whatever looks like it might work. It’s a trial-by-error process. We call it fussing, and it’s a favorite pastime.
Wayfair has a fun nautical line if you want to go that direction. For a boho vibe, we love Cost Plus World Market. Whether you’re on the hunt for new decor or sourcing from your own collections, each new season brings an excuse to freshen up your home’s interiors. Summer fireplace mantles should be lighter, less serious, and reflect your warm season passions, whatever they might be.
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Happy fussing!
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2 Comments
You have such style. I think more of mantles in the fall and winter. The country French is lovely, but I could not sell my country French table to a consignment shop because” no one wants country French any more.”
Kathleen
Kathy, so glad to hear from you! Country French has morphed into rooms filled with soft greys, whites, and other neutrals. I’d have scooped up that table for sure!