Inspiration & Solutions
The mantel naturally becomes a focal point during the holidays. This season, the most beautiful mantels feel edited, intentional, and easy to live with. You do not need a lot of décor to make an impact. A few thoughtful choices go a long way.
Here are our favorite simple guidelines for decorating a holiday mantel that feels festive and timeless.
Start with a limited color palette. One color, or two that work well together, will instantly make your mantel feel calm and cohesive.
Some favorite combinations this year:
— Red and green, in deeper, classic tones
— Blue and silver for a cooler, elegant look
— Silver and gold for subtle warmth and shine
Once you choose your colors, repeat them lightly through candles, ornaments, or ribbon.
Your mantel does not need to match side to side. In fact, slightly asymmetrical styling often feels more natural and modern.
Try one taller element on one side, such as artwork or a decorative tree, and balance it with a small grouping of objects on the other. Varying heights keep the arrangement interesting without feeling busy.
Holiday décor benefits from a little luster, especially in winter light.
Glass, mercury glass, or metallic accents help reflect candlelight and add warmth. Even just one or two shiny pieces can make the whole mantel feel more festive.
Greenery is best used as a soft base rather than a statement. A low run of cedar, pine, or eucalyptus along the mantel helps visually connect both sides and grounds the décor. Keeping greenery low also works well if you have artwork or a television above the mantel.
Candles instantly make a space feel cozy. Group a few together in varying heights rather than spreading them evenly across the mantel. Stick to neutral or soft metallic tones for a relaxed look.
The best holiday mantels are not overdone. By keeping your palette simple, mixing heights, adding a bit of shine, and layering candlelight, you create a space that feels welcoming and elegant all season long.
We started At Home Designs with a simple idea: that home should feel both elegant and easy to live in. What began as a passion for well-made window treatments grew into a love for helping others create spaces that reflect how they really live. Today, from our Hockessin showroom and store, we’re proud to bring comfort, craftsmanship, and a designer’s eye to homes across Delaware and Pennsylvania.
