50 Creative Ideas for Decorating Your Summer Mantel

In this post: Looking for a creative approach to styling a summer mantel? These ideas will help you add fun summer style and create a seasonal focal point.⇒

You would think decorating a mantel would be really easy.

After all, it’s one little shelf. How complicated can it be?

But the truth is, getting mantel styling correct is an art. One must avoid the temptation to line objects up along its length like soldiers, equidistant apart. At the same time care should be taken not to overcrowd the surface with unrelated items placed willy nilly about.

There can be beauty in symmetry if the proportions are perfect, but it’s a fine line between pleasing and boring. Likewise, an asymmetrical offering can provide aesthetic interest, but the key to getting it right is the correct balance.

The repetition of objects can be a design concept all its own, as can maintaining a color story or thematic mood.

Photo Credit: 2 Bees in a Pod

Add to all that the notion of making it seasonal and you have one more component to take into consideration. I personally find seasonal decorating to be a bit easier than evergreen styling, as it gives you direction and a kind of foundation to build from.

We’ve all decorated a holiday mantel and many of us decorate our mantels for fall. But creating a focal point for summer on the mantel surface is a lovely way to celebrate this pared back season. Summer decor tends to be upbeat and cheerful, but I like to keep it sophisticated at the same time.

Photo Credit: Suzie Anderson Home

The layout options for summer are no different than any other season, with simple clean formations being particularly impactful, and layered looks adding a note of complexity. You can layer like objects to make a bold statement, or line up similar related items in a rhythmic pattern.

The pieces you choose are, of course, instrumental to the success of your vignette, so never add things that you don’t find to be beautiful on their own. To upgrade the look of your mantel styling, you need to choose items carefully, pay attention to how they relate to each other and then use your gut to ensure harmony and balance.

Today I’m sharing 50 tips and ideas for decorating your summer mantel.

*For more info on each image, please click the link beneath the photo.

Photo Credit: Liv Cousins Floral Design

Ideas for Decorating Your Summer Mantel

• Clear the mantel to create a blank canvas.
• Hang a large mirror or colorful artwork as a focal point.
• Incorporate elements from nature like flowers, greenery, or seashells.
• Arrange a vase of freshly cut summer flowers.
• Place potted plants on each end of the mantel.
• Create a summer-themed display using seashells, driftwood, or colorful stones.
• Hang a summery wreath above the mantel.
• Use a wreath made with bright flowers or vibrant leaves.
• Consider a wreath made of seashells and starfish.
• Embrace a nautical or beach theme with anchors, lanterns, or glass bottles filled with sand and seashells.

Photo Credit: Life is Better at Home

• Choose a color palette that reflects summer, such as pastels, aqua blues, sunny yellows, and vibrant greens.
• Incorporate candles or lanterns of varying heights to create an inviting atmosphere.
• Use candles with summery scents like citrus, ocean breeze, or floral fragrances.
• Swap out usual family photos or artwork for pieces depicting summer scenes like landscapes, beach views, or flowers in bloom.
• Add texture and warmth with seasonal textiles like woven baskets or light summer blankets.
• Include personal touches that hold sentimental value or evoke summer memories, such as vacation souvenirs or trinkets collected over the years.
• Hang a decorative garland made of paper or fabric in summer colors.
• Display a collection of vibrant ceramic vases in different sizes and shapes.
• Incorporate beach-inspired elements like netting, fishing floats, or oars.
• Place a collection of tropical fruits, such as pineapples or coconuts, on the mantel.

Photo Credit: French Country Cottage

• Hang a string of twinkling lights or fairy lights to add a magical touch.
• Create a coastal vibe with framed vintage maps or seashell art.
• Arrange a display of colorful summer-themed plates or bowls on plate stands.
• Use a vintage surfboard or paddleboard as a striking focal point.
• Display a collection of mason jars filled with sand, shells, and candles.
• Hang a string of colorful summer-themed bunting or flags.
• Include a vintage or antique fan as a decorative and functional element.
• Incorporate a collection of brightly colored glass bottles or vases filled with flowers.
• Place a woven beach hat or straw hat on a decorative stand or hang it on the wall.
• Add a touch of whimsy with a decorative summer-themed mobile or wind chimes.

Photo Credit: Zevy Joy

• Display a collection of framed vintage postcards or travel photographs.
• Hang a colorful fabric banner or pennant with summer patterns.
• Incorporate a small indoor fountain or water feature for a refreshing feel.
• Include a display of summer-themed books or magazines with vibrant covers.
• Hang a large piece of driftwood horizontally above the mantel.
• Display a collection of colorful parasols or paper umbrellas.
• Create a display of vintage or retro beach toys like buckets, shovels, or surfboards.
• Hang a decorative sunburst mirror for a burst of summer energy.
• Place a bowl of fresh lemons, limes, or oranges on the mantel.
• Incorporate a collection of glass or ceramic sea creatures like fish or seahorses.

• Hang a string of colorful paper lanterns in different sizes and shapes.
• Include a decorative chalkboard or letterboard to display summer quotes or messages.
• Arrange a display of woven baskets filled with beach towels or picnic blankets.
• Incorporate a collection of ceramic or clay pots filled with succulents or cacti.
• Hang a collection of vintage beach or travel posters.
• Display a large, statement piece of driftwood vertically on the mantel.
• Use a large glass vase or apothecary jar to showcase a beach-themed terrarium.
• Hang a collection of framed pressed flowers or botanical prints.
• Include a display of colorful handmade paper fans or handheld fans.
• Incorporate a small tabletop fountain with flowing water and natural stones.

Photo Credit: Craftberry Bush

To enhance your mantel top decor, don’t forget to decorate around the fireplace, but be sure to limit what you add to keep your room looking uncluttered. A simple basket looks great in front of hearth, or place a pair of similar urns in different sizes on one side of the fire box. Always remember less is more, but empty looks unfinished.

Photo Credit: Town and Country Living

It’s always a pleasure to add seasonal style to your home and there’s no better place to feature it than atop your mantel. It’s a natural focal point waiting to happen and can add the carefree joy of summer to the rooms you relax in.

Photo Credit: Hallstrom Home

Photo Credit: Casa Watkins Blog