Rustic Fireplace Decor

We can quickly get into a serious discussion about energy efficiency and cost-to-benefit ratios when discussing fireplaces, but from a decorator’s viewpoint a fireplace is so appealing. Add an insert for heat efficiency, or make it gas instead of log-burning to deal with the loss of heat up the chimney (and the ash and log mess), but nothing speaks of comfort and country ambiance like a fireplace: fieldstone, rough wood mantel, braided rug, rocking chair, dog - you get the picture.

If you are so fortunate as to have a fireplace, and are keeping with the country or rustic theme, how do you decorate this focal point? 

Most fireplaces have a mantel, and they are ideal for displaying those personal touches that make your country room special.

·     Wreaths. Wreaths are not just for Christmas anymore, although a fireplace mantel with a wreath of fresh greenery on the chimney and a fir bough swag across the mantel sets off the old-fashioned Christmas tree in the corner. Other seasons include wreaths as well, with a wide variety of materials available. A grapevine circle with spring flowers, a wreath made of painted pinecones, a fall wreath that includes colorful fall leaves and burlap…all look great positioned just an inch or two above the mantel. 

·     Candles. I love real beeswax candles. Beeswax (or any other kind) candles set in rough wood holders, or small canning jars look great on a wooden beam mantel. A slightly rusty lantern works well as a candleholder, too. 

·     Plant material. This is such a broad category and can include anything from living, potted plants in ceramic pots or rustic wooden holders, to dried grasses arranged in old vases or canning jars. Bouquets of wildflowers, sunflowers in jars, or dried floral arrangements all look good against the brick or stone of a fireplace. Don’t forget sticks – a length of natural driftwood or a curved stick from your woods on the mantel with a dried flower arrangement at each end brings nature into your living space. 

·     Found objects. Anything you collect or discover works well as a display on your mantel. This might include old books stacked at one end, or a collection of antique tin toys, or old jam jars. “Found” treasures are totally subjective and personal and add your own brand to your fireplace mantel.

·     Frames. Anything framed can decorate your mantel, from prints, paintings, or family photos hung on the chimney just above the mantel, to a cluster of old framed mirrors, or a wooden window frame with peeling paint, with or without glass, propped on the mantel itself. 

·     Baskets. Small woven baskets either on their own or filled with interesting objects – rocks, toys, small balls, dried pinecones – look right at home against the rough wood and brick or stone of a fireplace. Pine needle baskets, cedar bark, willow all fit right in. A layer of interest is added if you or an ancestor made the baskets, but store-bought works too. Have fun with the look.

A fireplace in a room is usually the visual focus, so it pays to maintain the decorations. Many change with the seasons, or even more frequently, with a few permanent pieces kept year-round. Enjoy your fireplace, the atmosphere it creates, and the opportunity to express your own rustic style.

Margaret