I have always loved the look of a fireplace as a focal point for a room. So when we first moved into our place and it didn't have one, I was missing that centerpiece for my living "area"- where was I going to hang our Christmas stockings, right?
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| So sad... |
I did a little Craigslist stalking and I came across a few great options and they ranged from $100-$400. Since we are in New England these beauties are all over the place from old historic homes that have been renovated.
I went for a mantle that reflected the look of our windows (you can see what those look like here)- not super plain, but also not overly ornate looking. Ours was listed for $200 but I was able to talk them down to a cool $140 (thank you for my haggling skills, Mom!)
Install is super easy, I just needed a few L brackets and some anchors. I went for the heavy duty ones because our TV was going to go on top. Even though the TV was secured to the wall, I liked the peace of mind that the mantel was not going to budge.
The mantel was a little narrow so we had to attach 2x4s to the back sides to bring out the depth, but if you were not putting a TV on top then that step would not be necessary. We had those cut at Home Depot and used L brackets to attach that to the sides from the inside.
With all the brackets in place this mantel was good to go. And with the double bookcases flanking it, I think that it looks like it had been there all along!
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Santa is definitely going to know where to hang our stockings this year:)
The work is not quite done yet; I bought a radiator screen to fill the open space in the center for now, but I have been keeping my eye on some great Pinterest ideas. Here are the ones I love:
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| via niksnotes2.blogspot.com |
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| via Apartment Therapy |
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| via Apartment Therapy |
Which one do you like best??
This is a great project for anyone one that rents their place because the it can easily be removed and go with you to your next home!
I always laugh when people come over and it takes them a while to even realize that the mantel is a fake. Then I know I did my job!
XOXO Katie
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I love the third picture! I'm a sucker for controlled clutter!
ReplyDeleteLove that brass peacock too- I am going to start to hunt for that this summer at flea markets for sure.
DeleteCan't wait to do this at my new apartment in my bedroom. Love it!
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to see the new place!! Can I help decorate too even if its just over the phone??
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