12 Inspiring Ways to Decorate a Mantelpiece

Rustic, minimalist, gloriously cluttered … there’s a mantelpiece style to suit every room and fireplace

The mantelpiece is an integral part of all but the most contemporary fireplaces, and for centuries we have been using this built-in shelf as a place to show off treasured items. In the past a clock in the middle flanked by porcelain dogs or matching candlesticks might have been the extent of the styling, but today we are free to follow our mantelpiece muse and get creative. These 12 stylish approaches show just how much fun can be had by pepping up your fireplace and making over your mantel.