A fireplace gets the most use during colder months, but it is an attractive architectural element all year long, which is also frequently the focal point of the room. Decorate your mantel for every season in order to get the most impact.
Spring
Tall grasses are a great look for spring, as are other types of greenery. Greenery creates a sense of new life and a fresh feel. It helps bring the outdoors in. Try a geometrically shaped vase or a unique container filled with grasses on one end of the mantle and add candles sticks in different heights at the other end for some balance. Dot the rest of the mantle with greenery in brightly colored containers, or add some fresh flowers.
Summer
A light, bright look for summer might include a mixture of pretty glass bottles and bowls. You might want to fill some with fresh flowers and leave a few of them empty. Drop a few flower petals amongst the bottles and bowls. Use clear glass or try a few colored pieces. If you prefer something chunkier instead of more delicate pieces, choose ceramics in pastel colors.
Autumn
Naturals such as twigs, eucalyptus, or curling willow, promote an outdoorsy feel and containers in earthy or sunset colors will highlight the effect. Terre Cotta is a good choice. Mingle some warmly colored autumn leaves throughout the arrangement of containers.
Winter
Accessories that convey either warmth or cold will work for wintertime. Crystal snowflakes make a cool yet beautiful touch, and Christmas ornaments add to holiday anticipation. A bowl filled with beautiful ornaments is eye catching, while pine boughs dotted with pinecones also create a great look. Add some candles or place accessories on a strip of cuddly fabric to create a sense of warmth.
For any season, you can tie assorted items together by placing a length of lace or fabric beneath them.
*Pictures nearly always look great on a mantel.