Create a festive focal point by transforming your fireplace with a Christmas mantel. In need of inspiration? Here’s what I’m planning to do this year

While I love almost every aspect of preparing our home for Christmas, decorating the mantel is one of the projects I get most excited about every year. I tend to start planning how I’ll style our mantel a few weeks in advance so that I have time to get everything I need to achieve the look I want. The mantel is a focal point in our lounge, so I like to make a statement that is festive and cosy. 

We’ve got big plans for our lounge in the coming year; we’re hoping to renovate and install a new log burner, surround, and chimney breast with joinery each side. Unfortunately, I don’t think it’ll be ready for this winter, but I must admit, I’ve already started thinking about how I’ll style our Christmas mantel next year when the renovations are all finished.

Hanging garlands

For me, every Christmas mantel starts with a garland. I think evergreen foliage is effortlessly festive and always looks good whether it’s displayed on a mantel, staircase banister, or as part of a seasonal tablescape. This year, I’ve been particularly drawn to the fullness of our Faux Cypress Garland, so I plan to use two to create a gentle curve across the mantel and still have enough left over to trail down each side. I’ll secure them with command hooks; they stick well, don’t leave a mark, and hold the garland in place throughout the festive season. For added variety, I’m also considering our Norfolk Pine Garland for a different texture. To complete the look, I’ll hang our matching Faux Cypress Wreath, or even the Norfolk Pine Wreath, above the garland so that the foliage ties the décor together beautifully.

Add personality

Now, it’s time for the fun bit. The most effective Christmas mantels have character; you might use the same foliage base as your next-door neighbour, but the elements you add make your display unique and ensures the mantel matches your personal style. These are a whole host of items that you can use to add personality to your mantel, from ribbons and bows to cowbells and ceramics. Consider including family heirlooms too, such as decorations passed down from your grandparents or pieces handmade by your children to make your Christmas mantel extra-special.

This year, I’m going to pair a dramatic bow with our Jingle Bell cluster bells – it’s a modern twist on a traditional look. I think I’ll use our new velvet bronze, champagne, and satin cinnamon ribbons so that it ties in with the dominant colours in our lounge.

A touch of festive flair

To amplify the festive feeling, I’m also planning to layer some festive ceramics along the mantel. White ceramic houses, Christmas trees, and bells can all add some height to the display and contrast beautifully with the lush foliage. At night, add LED flicker candles to create a wonderfully cosy ambience or add a string of simple white lights that can be lit day and night.