1 MANTEL 3 ways
ROSY GLOW
A dramatic, modern wreath is the sculptural showstopper in this feminine scene that’s united by its tight palette of pale pink, light grey and white. Feathery pampas grass in tones of pink softens the graphic wreath shape and is so strong visually that a more subtle approach can be taken at the mantel. Highly textural elements, including sheepskin, fragrant eucalyptus and a weathered concrete garden sculpture (crowned with more pampas grass), are offset by the shiny sheen of blown-glass ornaments. A blue vase provides height to balance the statue, and gives a colour pop. The sweet tabletop tree is aglow with twinkle lights and more soft pink, grey and silver ornaments to tie it to the mantel.
Holiday Living Collection ORNAMENTS, STOCKING, 4ˇ TREE, Lowes. Pampas WREATH, concrete BUST, concrete SIDE TABLE, Fresh Florals. SHEEPSKIN, IKEA. Faux fur THROW AND PILLOW, Giant Tiger. Silver resin ANTLER, HomeSense. AREA RUG, eCarpetGallery. Wall, trim and mantel PAINT, Sharkey Gray by Behr Paint, Home Depot.
MERRY & BRIGHT
Vibrant blue is paired with trusted holiday hue red in this fun tradition-with-a-twist mantel. The striking Queen print presides over an appropriately orderly symmetrical treatment of nutcracker guards (snazzily dressed in blue and red to strengthen the palette), golden crown stocking holders and urns filled with lush royal red amaryllis. Garlands of cranberry and fresh pine nestle all the elements cozily. A moreis-more tree is loaded with vintage-style ornaments that echo the colour scheme and give the scene a nostalgic air, because Christmas is for kids, young and young-at-heart.
NUTCRACKERS, STOCKINGS, TREE, ORNAMENTS, Walmart. Blue velvet Sharon CHAIR, Queen Teal ART PRINT by Karl Lohnes, Kendall & Co. Red cranberry GARLAND, amarylis FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS, pine GARLAND, crown STOCKING HOLDERS, Fresh Florals. Plaid PILLOW, HomeSense. Abstract PAINTING, Anita Stein Art. Vintage over-dyed blue RUG, eCarpetGallery.
While red is a stalwart staple in holiday decorating, pairing it with brilliant blue updates the trusted favourite, and keeps the mood fresh, fun and informal.