1 Large Statement Artwork

Why It Works

A single, large piece of artwork creates an instant focal point that draws the eye upward and adds personality to your space. Unlike smaller pieces that can get lost, statement art commands attention and sets the tone for your entire room.

Choosing the Right Artwork

When selecting artwork for above your fireplace, consider these factors:

• Size Matters: Aim for 2/3 to 3/4 of your mantel's width. For a 60-inch mantel, look for artwork between 40-45 inches wide.
• Frame Style: Modern spaces benefit from simple, clean-lined frames or even frameless gallery-wrapped canvases. Traditional rooms call for more ornate frames with details that complement your mantel's architecture.
• Subject Matter: Abstract pieces work universally well, landscapes bring natural serenity, and bold contemporary art makes dramatic statements.
• Orientation: Horizontal pieces generally work best above mantels, though a large vertical piece can work beautifully in rooms with high ceilings.

Placement and Installation

Hang your artwork 4-8 inches above the mantel shelf for standard 8-foot ceilings. For higher ceilings, you can increase this to 8-12 inches. Use heavy-duty picture hanging hardware rated for your artwork's weight, and consider consulting a professional for especially valuable or heavy pieces.

Styling the Mantel Below

When you have statement artwork above, keep mantel styling simple and uncluttered. A few carefully chosen objects—perhaps a pair of candlesticks, a small plant, and one decorative object—will suffice. Let the artwork be the star.

Seasonal Rotation Strategy

Consider maintaining a small collection of artwork that you can rotate seasonally. Spring might feature light, bright abstracts, while fall could showcase richer, warmer tones. This keeps your space feeling fresh without requiring major décor overhauls.

2 Oversized Mirrors

The Magic of Mirrors

Mirrors above fireplaces have been a classic design choice for centuries, and for good reason. They amplify natural light, create the illusion of more space, and add an elegant, timeless quality to any room. A well-placed mirror can literally brighten your entire living area.

Types of Mirrors to Consider

Strategic Placement Considerations

Position your mirror to reflect something beautiful—a window with natural light, an attractive wall, or a piece of furniture you love. Avoid positioning it to directly reflect the fireplace opening itself, as this can create an awkward visual effect and may show soot or ash.

Styling the Mantel with Mirrors

Mirrors above create wonderful opportunities for layered styling on the mantel. Try symmetrical arrangements with matching candlesticks or vases on either side, or create an asymmetrical display with varying heights and textures. The mirror will reflect and multiply your mantel décor, so choose pieces thoughtfully.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Mirrors above fireplaces can accumulate dust and, with wood-burning fireplaces, a light film of soot. Clean regularly with a microfiber cloth and glass cleaner. For antique mirrors, consult a specialist before using any cleaning products.

3 TV Integration (Done Right)

The Modern Reality

Let's address the elephant in the room: many families want their TV above the fireplace. While purists may object, modern design has evolved to make this work beautifully. The key is thoughtful integration, not just mounting and hoping for the best.

Making TV Placement Work Aesthetically

The Frame TV Solution

Samsung's Frame TV and similar products have revolutionized TV-above-fireplace design. When not in use, these displays show artwork, making them virtually indistinguishable from a traditional framed piece. This is perhaps the most elegant solution for modern homes.

Gallery Wall Around TV

Create a curated gallery wall that incorporates the TV as just one element among many. Use matching frames around the TV and surrounding wall space. When the TV is off, it blends into the overall design rather than dominating as a black rectangle.

Floating Shelves for Balance

Install floating shelves on either side of the TV to create visual balance. Style these with books, plants, and decorative objects. This technique prevents the TV from feeling like an awkward addition and instead makes it feel intentionally integrated into the design.

Technical Considerations You Can't Ignore

• Heat Management: Ensure there's adequate ventilation and consider a heat-deflecting shield if you have a wood-burning fireplace.
• Viewing Angle: Ideally, the center of the TV should be at eye level when seated. Above a fireplace often means higher mounting, which can cause neck strain. Consider a tilting mount.
• Cable Management: Run cables through the wall or use decorative cable covers. Exposed wires ruin the aesthetic.
• Sound Quality: Sound bars can be mounted below the TV or incorporated into the mantel design. Consider in-wall speakers for the cleanest look.

Styling the Mantel with a TV Above

When you have a TV above your fireplace, keep mantel styling minimal and low-profile. Tall objects will obstruct the TV view. Opt for shorter items: tea lights, small succulents, shallow decorative boxes, or a simple garland during holidays.

4 Architectural Elements & Built-ins

Creating Depth and Interest

Sometimes the best solution isn't what you put ON the wall, but what you integrate INTO it. Built-in shelving, architectural molding, and custom woodwork create a cohesive, designed-in look that adds both function and beauty.

Built-in Bookcase Flanking

Floor-to-ceiling built-in bookcases on either side of the fireplace create a stunning library effect. This works particularly well in studies, dens, and traditional living rooms. The vertical lines draw the eye upward, making ceilings appear higher.

Design Options:

• Symmetrical Traditional: Matching bookcases on both sides create classic elegance
• Asymmetrical Modern: Different-sized shelving units add contemporary flair
• Open vs. Closed: Mix open shelving with closed cabinets for varied texture and hidden storage
• Lighting Integration: Add LED strip lighting or small puck lights to illuminate shelves

Floating Shelves

If built-ins aren't in your budget or timeline, floating shelves offer a simpler alternative. Install 2-3 shelves in a staggered or aligned configuration above and around the fireplace. These provide display space without the commitment or expense of full built-ins.

Decorative Molding and Trim

Add architectural interest with decorative molding, panel molding, or board and batten above the fireplace. Paint it the same color as the wall for subtle texture, or use contrasting colors for drama. This creates a defined "frame" for the space that can then be enhanced with artwork or mirrors.

Shiplap and Wood Accent Walls

Extending wood paneling, shiplap, or board and batten from floor to ceiling creates a stunning feature wall. This works beautifully in farmhouse, coastal, and modern rustic interiors. The vertical lines elongate the space while adding warmth and texture.

Stone or Tile Surrounds

Extending your fireplace surround material upward to the ceiling creates impressive visual impact. Natural stone, stacked stone, marble, or decorative tile can transform your fireplace wall into a stunning focal point. This is particularly effective in great rooms with high ceilings.

5 Gallery Wall or Collection Display

Creating Visual Interest Through Variety

A gallery wall transforms your fireplace area into a personal museum—a curated collection of memories, art, and objects that tell your story. This approach works across all design styles, from traditional to eclectic to modern.

Gallery Wall Layouts

Grid Arrangement (Modern)

Uniform-sized frames arranged in a perfect grid create clean, contemporary appeal. This works best with a cohesive subject matter—all black and white photos, all botanical prints, or all abstract art.

Salon-Style (Eclectic)

Mix frame sizes, styles, and even include 3D objects like decorative plates or small mirrors. This creates a collected-over-time look that's warm and personal. The key to pulling this off is consistent color palette—either in the frames, mats, or the artwork itself.

Symmetrical (Traditional)

Create perfect symmetry by mirroring arrangements on either side of a central piece. This classic approach never goes out of style and brings formal elegance to traditional spaces.

Planning Your Gallery Wall

What to Include

• Family Photos: Mix candid and professional shots across different eras
• Art Prints: Downloadable prints make affordable gallery walls possible
• Mirrors: Intersperse small mirrors to add light and dimension
• 3D Objects: Decorative plates, small shelves with objects, vintage finds
• Typography: Inspirational quotes or meaningful words add personal touch

Avoiding Gallery Wall Overwhelm

Spacing Guidelines:

• Maintain 2-3 inches between frames
• Keep the overall arrangement roughly rectangular or oval in shape
• Include at least one anchor piece that's larger than the rest
• Balance visual weight—don't cluster all large pieces on one side

Styling the Mantel with Gallery Walls

When your gallery wall extends to mantel level or close to it, keep mantel décor minimal. Simple, low-profile items work best—a simple garland, a few small votives, or one meaningful object centered on the mantel.