Erin Napier's Rustic Design Turns An Old Mantel Into A Decor Piece

Although cozy and quaint, fireplaces aren't really a part of modern life. Due to costs, energy efficiency, and environmental concerns, many modern homes are built without fireplaces and older ones are getting removed. However, Erin Napier showed us that we can turn an old fireplace mantel into decor to add a rustic feel to our homes (and make use of those salvaged mantels that are always cropping up on eBay and Facebook Marketplace). 

In Season 9, Episode 6 of "Home Town", Erin Napier was redoing a house and brought in an old, second-hand mantel to create a defining space in the room. She attached it to the wall and filled it with logs, adding intrigue and interest to the home. This creative idea of using an old mantel is a really effective way to transform a space and create a cabin vibe. It feels homey and snug, and fits in with a range of aesthetics. It also brings the past into the present. In years gone by, families would often gather around a warm hearth. Today, we can still use a fireplace to create this focal point — just without the fire. 

If you love Erin Napier's idea, you can recreate it yourself by purchasing a salvaged fireplace mantel and filling it with hardwood. However, there are so many different items you can add to your mantel decor piece, so have a think about your style and what might reflect you. If you have green thumbs and love the indoor jungle look, consider placing plants in the empty space of your mantel and on the top, instead of logs. It is helpful to pick houseplants you can grow in low light, as this means they will thrive happily even if sheltered within the mantel structure. Adding vintage bottles with fairy lights inside, dotted amongst the plants, is also a super cute idea, bringing cozy, whimsical vibes into your space. 

A lover of art? Scour your thrift stores to see if you can find vintage art prints or paintings to create a collage effect within the mantel, using the fireplace as a frame. Even placing a big painting that fits the mantel can add a unique decor element to your home. For bookworms, consider stacking your favorite novels in your mantel, allowing them to be the focus of your room. If you want to create a rustic, bohemian feel, candles in wine bottles have a charming effect. Using an old mantel as decor is customizable, and this allows you to create a focal point in your home that is unique to you and what you love. Look in secondhand stores for your perfect reclaimed mantel, get creative, and have fun turning it into a beloved decor piece.