a simple & streamlined mantle

I love Christmas and all the decorations, but when the season is over and the tree is put away, I love the decor in our house to be simple. Streamlined. Clean.

Today I worked on shopping our house and re-decorating our fireplace.

It all started with this wreath I made this weekend {here's the diy...so simple & fun}.

The blanket and faux boxwood came from Homegoods. I love all the grays and blues.

If you want calm, these colors certainly give it. But, even if your taste calls for different ones, make sure you only use a couple colors. I've heard before that two colors + one accent is what's needed for an appealing decor.

Ben bought me this fun zebra chair from Nordstrom Home maybe seven years ago.

I still love it!

The column we use as a side table was from the garden center at the grocery store near my first apartment when I couldn't afford something for beside my bed. This one was under $15. When we need more tabletop space, I'll place a tray or large coffee table art book on top so there's room for a few more items.

{I love that mixing gold and silver is okay}

The globe is from Goodwill, the faux plant from Ikea.

The beautiful gold lanterns were from Thanksgiving dinner.

But before that, they were 90% off at Hobby Lobby.

However, not so much my taste.

But...nothing a little spray paint can't fix!

A mixture of blue and cream bound books adds texture and interest, but without being too busy.

Google locations near you for secondhand books, Goodwill, or keep your eyes open at garage sales and church flea markets for beautifully worn ones.

A large glass jar contains a bunch of candles from Ikea.

What do you think? Serene without being boring?

I think maybe I love it.

\\ Remember to check back later in the week for the diy on making this beautiful wreath! \\

No joke, I made it for about $5. And it's made from coffee filters. So fun!

{tutorials on making our chevron and chalkboard fireplace: 1, 2, 3 }

{linked up to these fun parties!}

. the gunny sack . a bowl full of lemons . chef in training . the blackberry vine . growing home . cedar hill farmhouse . nap-time creations . vmv 206 . ladybug blessings . finding heaven today . a stroll through life . jaqs studio . sew much to do . seven thirty three . not just a housewife . we are that family . a wise woman builds her home .