FIREPLACE FRAME-UP

Turn a fireplace into a focal point by organizing it with symmetry in mind. Place matching lamps at the ends of the mantel, and then center them with a unique statement piece like Tom’s heirloom clock. Fill in the gaps with items that are about the same size, color and visual weight. On the wall above, hang a framed painting or photograph, and crown your composition with a decorative piece of fretwork the same width as the mantel. To create a fun accent for her living room hearth, Charlene blasted a coal bucket with spray paint. “I gotta get that pop of burnt red in there!” she says with a smile.