Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

Fall for mantel magic with stunning autumnal displays

- KATIE LAUGHRIDGE Adapted from nellhills.com. Katie Laughridge is the owner of Kansas City interior design shop Nell Hill’s.

As the air turns crisp (for this week at least) and the leaves hint at a transforma­tion into a riot of fiery hues, I welcome fall with open arms. It’s a time for cozy gatherings, warm cider by the fire and the artful transforma­tion of our living spaces.

I’ve found that one of the most captivatin­g ways to usher in the season’s beauty is through the design of our mantels. Often the focal points of our homes, these architectu­ral gems provide the perfect canvas for infusing the warmth and charm of autumn.

I invite you on a journey through three distinct fall mantel designs, each nestled within its own unique room. From opulent and symmetrica­l to minimalist, these designs offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of possibilit­ies for your fall decorating.

MUTED BROWNS AND BRASS BRILLIANCE

This fall mantel design exudes an air of sophistica­tion, which lends itself well to the spirit of the room. The asymmetric­al arrangemen­t, which can be designed to fit large and small mantels, offers a sense of balance and charm to the space.

On one side, we’ve introduced height with elegant candlestic­ks and a vertical floral arrangemen­t, while on the other, flowers gracefully cascade over the edge, creating a sense of natural abundance. This approach lends the mantel a vintage quality, with layers of textures that draw the eye. The overall design captures an organic, earthy essence that’s quintessen­tial to this time of year.

The color palette we’ve chosen is predominan­tly composed of muted browns, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. To add a touch of brightness and contrast, we’ve incorporat­ed white pumpkins that beautifull­y accentuate the brass elements found throughout the arrangemen­t and room.

INSPIRED SYMMETRY

This mantel design harmonizes beautifull­y with the room’s central focal point, a stunning Moroccan tile-inspired mirror. Symmetry takes center stage here, with two carefully assembled arrangemen­ts flanking the mirror, allowing its bold beauty to shine and reflect light throughout the space. The color palette we’ve chosen features an elegant blend of creams, greens and tasteful bits of pinky-red, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

What’s particular­ly wonderful about this design is its versatilit­y. The arrangemen­ts can be updated or adapted to different color schemes easily, making it a timeless decor addition. By keeping the mirror open and unobstruct­ed, we harness its reflective magic to add depth and visual intrigue to the entire room, ensuring that it remains a captivatin­g space year-round.

A MINIMALIST FALL MANTEL

This fall mantel design speaks to the hearts of understate­d minimalist­s (who still prefer some decor) who like to let their furniture take center stage. This design masterfull­y harnesses the power of symmetry, with two large and impeccably balanced floral bouquets flanking a captivatin­g gold circular mirror. As your gaze is drawn to the center, three pewter-esque candlestic­ks gracefully punctuate the compositio­n, creating a sense of harmony and balance.

The floral arrangemen­ts atop the mantelpiec­e mirror the artistic display on the ottoman below, featuring generous swathes of twiggy sprays that cascade from the vase, while rich reds, oranges and yellows create an autumnal bouquet. Two elegant chairs take their place in front of the mantel, adorned in a formal fabric that boasts a swirling cloud motif in deep, opulent hues.

In the world of interior design, the mantel serves as a canvas for creative expression, especially during the enchanting season of fall. As the leaves change and the air grows crisper, take inspiratio­n from these designs to create your own mantel masterpiec­e that captures the essence of the season in a way that’s uniquely yours.

 ?? (Handout via TNS) ?? This opulent fall mantel arrangemen­t boasts asymmetric­al design.
(Handout via TNS) This opulent fall mantel arrangemen­t boasts asymmetric­al design.
 ?? (Handout via TNS) ?? The furniture remains front and center in this minimalist design.
(Handout via TNS) The furniture remains front and center in this minimalist design.
 ?? (Handout via TNS) ?? This fall mantel uses the power of symmetry to make an impact.
(Handout via TNS) This fall mantel uses the power of symmetry to make an impact.

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