The Beachcomber's Summer Mantel Style

I was swapping out a few accessories on the mantel this past week, and got to thinking about all the different ways there are to style a mantel in the summer when the fireplace is not in use. When we’re not using it in summertime for its warming purpose, it’s still fun to accessorize the fireplace mantel to fit the season and style of your home. Even though the mantel can be a tricky area of your home to decorate, here are 5 summer ideas I came up with - beach combing style!

Lighten and Brighten

Pull in a few accessories from your home that reflect the light of summer. Our living room's fireplace is dark. I brightened the room by bringing in lighter accessories. Adding cream colored throw pillows, an old farmhouse window frame, large candlesticks on the hearth and lots of shells. These few items keep my fireplace and mantel the focal point of the room during our long hot Texas summer!

A Dash of Whimsy

Play with quirky finds, and organic objects from nature for a creative approach and a dose of the unexpected. I chose to decorate my mantel with a beach/coastal theme. Our little family loves the beach, from swimming to lazing in the sun to collecting shells. Here I've used some of our favorite shells, driftwood and coral that we've collected over the years on memorable family vacations. 

Fill the Firebox

When not in use, get creative with firebox design and inserts. Use branches, shells, a grouping of large pillar candles, a beautiful green fern or a big bucket of fresh florals to fill the space. It helps to brighten and liven up your fireplace for the summer months.

Simplify

Avoid complicated arrangements and stick with the basics. Sometimes less is more. Even if I can't have my toes in the sand or hear the ocean waves crashing this summer I can still bring that coastal feel into my home. This simple beachy display features all the elements of a mantel reminiscent of the sea. Driftwood, seashells, starfish, nautical rope and a neutral, monochromatic/turquoise palette are ideal for summer.

Shop you Home

Before heading to the store, check your stash! I found this old window, shells and votives in my 'go to decor' room. I love these little turquoise votives. I found them at Goodwill a few months back for .10 cents a piece. That's my kind of deal!

Decorating my mantel for summer has me dreaming of the beach and the sound of waves lapping at the shore! I hope it has you dreaming of the sand and sea too! Do you switch things around in your home for different seasons? Or do you like to keep things as they are throughout the year? Is your mantel feeling neglected??? Show it a bit of love!

If you'd like more help with ideas and products check out One Kings Lane website!

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