Curating Art Around Fireplaces: Tips for Harmonizing Your Space

Curating Art Around Fireplaces: Tips for Harmonizing Your Space

A fireplace is often the centerpiece of a living room, a place where warmth meets style. But what truly elevates this focal point is the art and decor surrounding it. Choosing the right pieces and arranging them thoughtfully can transform your fireplace into a harmonious blend of functionality and beauty.

If you’re looking to make your fireplace the heart of your home, here are some practical tips for curating art around it.

1. Choose Art That Complements Your Space

Start by considering the overall style of your living room. Is it modern, rustic, traditional, or eclectic? The art you choose should reflect and enhance the existing aesthetic.

 

  • Modern Spaces: Look for sleek, abstract art with clean lines and bold colors.
  • Rustic or Traditional Rooms: Landscape paintings or vintage-style prints often work beautifully.
  • Eclectic Styles: Feel free to mix mediums, such as combining a framed photo with a woven wall hanging or a small sculpture.

The size of the art is just as important as the style. A piece that’s too small may get lost above the fireplace, while one that’s too large could overwhelm the space. A general rule is to pick art that’s about two-thirds the width of your mantel for a balanced look.

2. Positioning Art Around the Fireplace

The placement of your art can make or break the overall vibe of your room. To create a cohesive design, consider these tips.

Centered Above the Mantel

The classic choice is to hang one large statement piece directly above the mantel. This draws the eye upward and emphasizes the fireplace as a focal point. Ensure the bottom edge of the frame is about 4–6 inches above the mantel for a clean and polished look.

Layered on the Mantel

For a more relaxed and casual approach, place multiple pieces of art on the mantel. Overlapping frames of different sizes can add depth and visual interest. This works especially well in cozy, laid-back spaces.

Flanked by Art

If you want to balance the sides of your fireplace, consider placing smaller framed pieces or sculptures on either side. This creates symmetry and adds charm without competing with the central focus.

3. Make Your Art Fit the Fireplace Color Scheme

The harmony between your art and the fireplace’s color scheme is crucial for a cohesive look. A disjointed palette can make your fireplace feel out of place rather than a well-integrated feature.

Matching Art with Fireplace Colors

Start by analyzing the tones of your fireplace. Is it made of traditional red brick, sleek black stone, or painted in a neutral hue? For a unified appearance:

  • Use art with complementary or contrasting colors to either blend with or stand out against the fireplace.
  • If your fireplace has bold tones, opt for art with neutral or muted shades to avoid clashing.

Refreshing Your Fireplace with Paint

Sometimes, the best way to match your art to your fireplace is to give the fireplace itself a little makeover. Painting your fireplace is a simple yet transformative way to align it with your decor.

For the best results, consider Brick-Anew’s brick fireplace paint. Their paint kits offer a range of color options designed specifically for fireplaces, making it easy to achieve a professional-looking finish. Whether you want to lighten up a dark brick fireplace or add warmth to a stone surface, Brick-Anew provides long-lasting solutions that can tie your fireplace and art together seamlessly.

When choosing a fireplace paint color, think about your art’s palette. If your art is bold and colorful, a soft neutral tone for the fireplace will make it stand out. Conversely, if your art is minimal or monochromatic, a deep, dramatic fireplace color can create a striking contrast.

4. Add Layers of Light

Lighting can greatly enhance the way your art and fireplace look together. A dimly lit area might not do justice to your artwork, while excessive lighting can create glare. Here’s how to find the right balance.

  • Spotlights or Picture Lights: These can highlight the artwork above your mantel without overpowering the room.
  • Ambient Lighting: Wall sconces or floor lamps on either side of the fireplace can add warmth and soften the look of the space.
  • Fireplace Glow: Let the natural light from your fireplace complement your chosen art pieces for a cozy and inviting feel.

Final Thoughts

Curating art around your fireplace is an opportunity to express your personal style and enhance your home’s ambiance. By choosing the right art, aligning it with your fireplace’s color scheme, and using thoughtful positioning, you can create a space that feels balanced and inviting.

So, grab your favorite art pieces, pick the perfect paint, and start transforming your fireplace into a masterpiece.