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Symmetry is for formal rooms. On a white painted mantel in a bright living room, we let the garland pool on the left and spill over the end, then balance it with only two candlesticks and three small pumpkins on the right.
The gilded round mirror is the anchor. Everything else is arranged to look as if it landed there.
The Elevation
- 1Leaf and wheat garland. Dried russet leaves, wheat and eucalyptus over the left two-thirds, spilling down the end.
- 2Brass candlesticks. Two, right of center, ivory tapers.
- 3Small pumpkins. Three, cream and pale green, at the right end.
- 4Round gilded mirror. Centered, hung low so its bottom edge is about 6 inches above the shelf.
- 5Basket of logs. On the hearth at the left, under the garland's spill.
The Details
The Pieces
For leaf and wheat garland · qty 1
For leaf and wheat garland · qty 1
For brass candlesticks · qty 1
For brass candlesticks · qty 1
Designer's Notes
Installation
Secure the garland to the shelf with a garland clip or mantel hanger, then let the end fall naturally. Do not trim it straight.
Light
Morning light from the side is this mantel's best hour. In the evening, light only the tapers.
Budget
Tier I (Under $300): about $190 for everything on the list below at today's prices.
