What should I put on either side of my fireplace
Okay, so your fireplace is basically the star of the show in your living room, right? It's where everyone's eyes go. But those empty spaces right next to it? Those are prime real estate for making the whole room look put together. What you put there honestly depends on what you need—storage, style, or just something to look at—and how much room you've got to play with. Let's break it down.
What are the most popular and balanced options for fireplace sides?
When it comes to nailing the look on either side, the goal is to get that visual balance. Going symmetrical is the safe bet—you know, matching stuff on both sides. But asymmetry? That can give you a cooler, more curated vibe. Here's what people actually do:
- Built-in Bookshelves or Cabinets: Honestly, this is like the holy grail if you need storage. Custom or even those pre-made units create this seamless, built-in look that's just *chef's kiss*. Perfect for cramming books, photos, and random tchotchkes.
- Large Artwork or Mirrors: Think big—like oversized art or a massive mirror on each side. Gives it a gallery feel. Mirrors are sneaky good for bouncing light around, making the whole room feel bigger and brighter without trying too hard.
- Tall Plants or Trees: Want something fresh? Pop a tall fiddle-leaf fig or a snake plant on each side. Adds life, texture, and a little green hit that softens everything up.
- Accent Chairs or Benches: If you've got the square footage, a pair of comfy armchairs or a long bench flanks the fireplace and creates this cozy little conversation nook. Works best in bigger rooms where it won't feel cramped.
- Pedestals or Sculptural Objects: Matching pedestals with busts, vases, or sculptures? That's classic elegance. A bit formal, but it works if you're into that timeless thing.
- Log Holders and Fireplace Tools: Practical and stylish. A pair of tall log holders or a tool set keeps stuff handy while adding a rustic, functional edge. It's not just decoration—you'll actually use it.
How do I choose the right height for objects on either side of the fireplace?
Height matters more than you'd think. Get it wrong and things look off. A decent rule is to pick stuff that's at least two-thirds the height of your fireplace opening or mantel. Here's a quick cheat sheet:
| Fireplace Height | Recommended Flanking Object Height | Example Objects |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 36 inches (91 cm) | 24-30 inches (61-76 cm) | Medium vases, stacked books, small sculptures |
| 36-48 inches (91-122 cm) | 30-42 inches (76-107 cm) | Tall vases, floor lamps, medium-sized plants |
| Over 48 inches (122 cm) | 42-60+ inches (107-152+ cm) | Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, large artwork, tall trees |
Too short and they'll look lost. Too tall and they'll overpower the fireplace. You want them to anchor it, not fight it.
What should I avoid placing on either side of my fireplace?
Look, it's your space, but there are some common screw-ups that can mess with the vibe. Here's what to skip:
- Clutter and Small Knick-Knacks: Don't turn that space into a dumping ground for tiny, random stuff. It looks chaotic and distracts from the fireplace. Go bigger, fewer, more impactful.
- Electronics with Cables: A TV above the mantel is one thing, but plopping a TV or speakers on the floor next to it? Messy and unbalanced. If you need electronics, hide the cables with built-in shelving or something.
- Highly Flammable Items: This is just common sense. Keep newspapers, fabric, or plastic at least 3 feet from the firebox. Don't be that person who learns the hard way.
- Items that Block Airflow: Big solid objects too close to a wood or gas fireplace can mess with air circulation. It's not just a style issue—it's a performance issue.
Can I use asymmetrical designs on either side of my fireplace?
Hell yeah. Symmetry is safe, but asymmetry? That's where the cool stuff happens. The trick is balancing visual weight, not matching things exactly. Try these out:
- One Tall, One Wide: A tall skinny floor lamp on one side, a low console table or bench on the other. Different shapes, same impact.
- One Art, One Plant: Hang a big piece of art on one side, pop a leafy plant on the other. The contrast keeps it interesting without competition.
- One Open Shelf, One Closed Cabinet: Open shelving for display on one side, a closed cabinet for hidden storage on the other. Best of both worlds.
- One Sculptural Piece, One Functional Piece: A decorative sculpture on one side, a log holder on the other. The mix of purpose feels curated and lived-in, not stiff.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to style a fireplace with a TV above it?
If you've got a TV above the fireplace, keep the sides simple and low-key. You don't want to compete with the TV's height. Low-profile vases, small succulents, or stacked books work well. Avoid tall stuff that makes the whole thing look crowded.
Should I match the objects on either side of my fireplace?
Matching stuff gives you a formal, balanced look. Non-matching stuff feels casual and eclectic. Both are fine—it just depends on your room's style. Traditional spaces love symmetry. Modern or bohemian rooms? Asymmetry can be way more interesting.
Can I use a bench on one side and a chair on the other?
Yeah, that's a solid asymmetrical move. The bench gives you seating and a surface for a tray or books, while the chair offers a cozy spot to read. Just make sure they have similar visual weight—like similar colors or textures—to keep things balanced.
How much space should I leave between the fireplace and the flanking objects?
I'd say at least 6-12 inches on each side. Gives everything breathing room so it doesn't look crammed. And for safety, keep flammable stuff at least 3 feet from the firebox. Better safe than sorry.
Resumen breve
- Priorizar la proporción: Elija objetos que tengan al menos dos tercios de la altura de su chimenea para lograr un equilibrio visual.
- Simetría versus asimetría: Los objetos iguales crean una sensación formal y clásica; los objetos diferentes crean un estilo moderno y ecléctico.
- Evite el desorden: Elija algunas piezas grandes e impactantes en lugar de una colección de artículos pequeños y abarrotados.
- Piense en la función: Los estantes para libros, los asientos y los soportes para leña son opciones prácticas y elegantes que mejoran la usabilidad de la habitación.
