Q. We have a corner fireplace with grey ceramic tile in 12” by 12” surrounding it. The fireplace mantel is wood in a medium oak stain, 5’ high and wedged into the wall. There is no drywall to hang anything on. What would you suggest we put on the mantel?
A. depending on your design style and the feel of the rest of your room, we suggest painting your mantel a warm white like Pratt & Lambert’s Seed Pearl. This will make the whole fireplace, including the tile surround, seem a lot more cohesive. considering that you have a corner to contend with above the mantle, prop a large framed mirror centred on the mantle, and “layer” different sized framed photos or artwork on either side of and in front of the mirror. The mirror will act as your backdrop for display, considering that you don’t have a flat wall on which to hang pictures.