July 21, 2010

Mantle Reveal

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The  seashell mirror that I just finished and hung above the fireplace made the mantle ask for a change of scene, too.  It wanted to be lightened up and I totally agree.

Off came the heavy accessories and up went some new pieces (some are actually old).  It took me a long time to decide what I wanted to use.  I shopped the basement and other rooms first, but there just wasn’t much that I wanted to use for the look I was going for.  I finally found something that I really like to replace the evergreen topiaries on each end of the fireplace.  I also wanted to change the HUGE candle that weighs a ton for something airier.  I decided to use a wooden box and some old books that I had to create the new centerpiece.

 

I still love everything about the before. 

After five years, it was time for a change.

 

I love this look too.

 

For the centerpiece, I used this wooden box and some old books that I already had.

I found a load of antlers at an antique mall this weekend for $1.00 each.

 

These kind of pale tattered books are very popular in design right now.

 

I think the antlers were perfect for a natural, relaxed look.

 

Finding bases for the new cloches were the most fun of all.

I got both of the old column bases from Resurrect Antiques.

It is one of my favorite local places to shop.

You can read a couple of posts about them here and here.

 

I used an old firehouse movie reel box as a lift for this one.

The old nails in the top of this base serves to balance the seashell.

 

I am pleased with the new look for the mantle.

 

I would love to lighten the walls, but this finish wasn’t cheap and it took a long time to do.

Plus,  I have so many mini makeovers going on, I wouldn’t attempt to start a big one.

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This is a tiny preview of another makeover I am working on right now.

 

 

Anyone want to guess what I am making with this molding?

 

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Visit these blogs for some fun parties.

Rhonda

21 comments:

  1. Wow, what great pieces and great combination!
    machelle

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  2. I am in love with your mantle vignette. The cloches, mirrors, shells...everything is perfect. Love the antlers and how amazing that you got them for $1.00 each!
    Hugs, Sherry

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  3. Your mantel looks wonderful, so much brighter and soft looking. I like the antlers, they look great.

    hugs
    Sissie

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  4. Love the fresh look, Rhonda! The cloches look great in place of the topiaries and I love the tattered books. I just saw some of those recently and they were way too expensive. Your mirror looks wonderful and what a different look you've given to this area!

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  5. Rhonda, what a gorgeous look, and I love the old books they are wonderful for decorating!!! hugs~~~ Daphne

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  6. Rhonda, your mantel looks fabulous. You got those antlers for a dollar each. I am so jealous. I love the old pieces you put the cloches on. Very creative.

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  7. Your mantel looks fresh and summery. You did a nice job, Rhonda. Can't wait to see what you do with the molding!

    xoxo
    Janie

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  8. Lovely! And I so love the antlers!

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  9. Your fireplace is so pretty! I love what you used for cloche bases. So great. I'd love to find a piece of coral that size.

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  10. Love your new mantel look. Don't keep us in suspense too long about your molding project!

    Judy

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  11. Sooo creative! The new look is much brighter and more of a focal point. I love the cloches and the old books. My eye is just always drawn to that look! Love it! Gail

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  12. There's nothing better than when all your finds come together. Well done!
    Licks & Wags, Niki

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  13. Your mantle looks so wonderful!! I really like the cloche. :)

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  14. Wow, it looks great! I love the cloches...how unique!

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  15. Rhonda,
    Love that "COASTAL" look you have going on here! I plan on stopping in that shop when I'm in town next month moving my daughter into her new condo...she LOVES that place:)

    Blessings,
    Linda

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  16. I think it looks great, I love the way the antlers look. Did you make the mirror? Looks great.

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  17. Rhonda,

    You did an amazing job creating that mirror. Your mantle looks beautiful. I love the conch and coral displayed under cloches. The bases really give it a vintage worn feel. Perfection!

    I just posted about where I collect my seashells, beach glass and driftwood.

    Your Friend,
    Deborah

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  18. Just beautiful Rhonda! Like you...I loved the before mantel too...but I adore the fresh new look you've created! The mirror and other pieces are gorgeous!

    Enjoy!
    Cathy

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  19. love the brick change too. love the beachy, found object look. I guess it'll be a long shelf or headboard treatment. :0)

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  20. Very pretty. I am hosting a CSN Giveaway on my blog and would love for you to stop by.

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  21. Girl, this is GORGEOUS!! Love the cloche's on those BASES!! The mirror is stunning, the old books, LOVE!!!

    I have no idea what you are doing with the molding....but I know I will LOVE IT!

    Lou Cinda :)

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So happy you are here - I love your comments!