Summer is the perfect time to refresh your home with some bright and light decor. One area that often gets overlooked is the mantel, which can serve as a stylish focal point in any room. Here are 21 creative ideas to help you give your mantel a summer makeover, making it feel fresh and inviting without much fuss.
DIY Driftwood Art as a Focal Point

Driftwood art brings a touch of nature indoors and can transform your mantel into a stunning focal point. The image showcases a beautifully styled mantel featuring a unique piece of driftwood that captures the eye. Its natural texture and organic shape create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
To create your own driftwood art, start by collecting interesting pieces of driftwood from a local beach or lake. Once you have your driftwood, clean it thoroughly to remove any sand or dirt. You can leave it in its natural state or give it a light sanding to enhance its appearance.
Arrange your driftwood on your mantel in a way that feels balanced and visually appealing. Pair it with some greenery, like potted plants or dried grasses, to add softness and color. Including decorative elements like candles or small sculptures can also enhance the overall look.
With a little creativity and DIY spirit, your driftwood art can become a stunning centerpiece that reflects your personal style while embracing the beauty of the outdoors.
Colorful Summer Wreaths for a Cheerful Touch

Summer decor is all about bright colors and cheerful vibes, and colorful wreaths are a fabulous way to embrace that spirit. Imagine hanging a vibrant wreath on your mantle, welcoming everyone who enters your space with a burst of life and energy. The wreath in this image features a delightful mix of yellow, pink, and orange flowers, creating a lively and inviting atmosphere.
Wreaths are versatile pieces that can be hung anywhere, but when placed above a mantle, they really shine. This particular wreath’s variety of flowers not only adds color but also texture, making it a focal point in the room. Surrounding the wreath are charming decor pieces like candles and potted plants, enhancing the summer theme.
To recreate this cheerful look, consider using faux flowers for easy maintenance and longevity. Choose flowers that speak to you, and don’t shy away from mixing colors. You can even personalize your wreath by adding elements like ribbons or seasonal decorations that reflect your own style.
Bright Floral Arrangements for Freshness

Summer is all about vibrant colors and fresh blooms. A bright floral arrangement can instantly lift the mood of any space. In this image, a stunning bouquet filled with sunflowers, roses, and other cheerful flowers takes center stage. The mix of colors—from sunny yellows to deep reds—captures the essence of summer, making it a delightful addition to any mantel.
Behind the bouquet, a lush green wreath adorned with yellow lilies and small orange accents adds depth and texture. This combination creates a refreshing backdrop that enhances the floral display. To complete the look, a couple of oranges sit nearby, echoing the warm tones of the flowers and adding a touch of seasonal charm.
When arranging flowers for your home, think about mixing different types and colors to create contrast. Pairing bright florals with natural elements, like greenery or fruits, helps create a cohesive summer theme. This look is approachable and allows for creativity, making it easy to refresh your decor throughout the season.
Nautical Themed Accessories for a Beachy Look

Nautical décor brings a touch of the seaside right into your home, making it perfect for summer. This setup showcases how accessories can create a cohesive look that feels both relaxed and inviting. The prominent anchor on the wall serves as a striking focal point, instantly evoking thoughts of the ocean.
On the mantel, various elements complement the nautical theme. The use of candles adds warmth and ambiance, while decorative items like the glass bottle and wheel highlight the maritime vibe. A natural touch comes from the greenery, which softens the overall look and adds a hint of freshness.
Don’t forget about texture! The rope draped along the mantel ties the theme together, suggesting the rugged charm of a sailor’s life. Meanwhile, the white and navy color scheme feels crisp and clean, reminiscent of coastal living.
Incorporating elements like these into your summer mantle decor not only enhances the aesthetic but also brings a sense of relaxation that’s perfect for the warmer months. So whether you’re near the coast or just dreaming of it, these nautical touches can easily transform your space into a beachy retreat.
Rustic Lanterns and Candlelight

Rustic lanterns bring a warm and inviting feel to your summer mantle decor. The gentle flicker of candlelight creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for those long, warm evenings. These lanterns can be styled in various ways, depending on your space and personal taste.
The combination of black metal and glass adds a timeless charm. You can mix and match different sizes and styles to create visual interest. Place larger lanterns in the center and smaller ones on the sides for balance. This layering effect draws the eye and adds depth to your display.
To enhance the rustic vibe, consider adding natural elements like greenery or pinecones around the lanterns. This not only complements the wood tones of your mantle but also brings a touch of the outdoors inside. Lighting a few candles inside the lanterns will give your space a soft glow, making it a perfect setting for relaxed summer gatherings.
Tropical Leaf Decorations for a Lush Feel

Bringing a bit of the tropics into your home can transform your space into a tranquil oasis. In the image, you can see a beautifully styled mantle adorned with vibrant tropical leaves, particularly the iconic monstera leaves. These large, leafy plants add a sense of lushness and vibrancy that instantly uplifts the room.
The arrangement showcases various sizes of leaves, creating a layered effect that draws the eye. You can see a few pots with leafy plants, enhancing the natural vibe. This type of decor not only adds greenery but also serves as a statement piece, making your mantle a focal point in the room.
To achieve this look, consider using both real and artificial leaves. Real plants bring life and freshness, while high-quality faux options can provide a lasting decor solution. Pair them with textured elements, like woven baskets and wooden accents, to add depth and warmth to your space.
This tropical theme is perfect for summer, evoking feelings of relaxation and vacation vibes. Whether you’re planning a gathering or just want to enjoy a peaceful evening at home, these decorations will create a welcoming atmosphere.
Coastal Vibes with Seashell Accents

Transforming your mantel into a coastal retreat is easier than you think! The image here showcases a lovely display that embodies the essence of summer by the sea. The white mantel serves as a perfect canvas, highlighting the natural beauty of seashells and starfish.
The large gold-framed mirror adds a touch of elegance, reflecting light and making the space feel more open. The soft blue wall mural mimics the ocean waves, creating a calming backdrop that ties everything together. Dried grasses and soft florals in neutral tones complement the seashells beautifully.
Using elements like starfish and shells brings the beach indoors. It not only adds texture but also invokes memories of sunny beach days. Consider mixing and matching different shell types and sizes for variety. And don’t forget to incorporate some playful lettering, like the cheerful ‘HAIL’ sign, which can uplift the whole aesthetic.
For a touch of personalization, you can add small framed photos from your beach outings or even a few sand dollars. This way, your mantel isn’t just decor; it’s a reflection of your summer adventures. With just a few simple pieces, you can create a welcoming coastal vibe that feels fresh and inviting all season long.
Vintage Glass Bottles with Sunlight Effect

One charming way to brighten up your summer mantle is by using vintage glass bottles. These bottles, with their various shapes and colors, add a lovely touch to any decor. When sunlight hits them just right, they create a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels perfect for summer.
In this setup, the warm glow of sunlight filters through the window, casting delightful reflections and enhancing the colors of the flowers inside the bottles. Each bottle tells its own story, from the smooth curves of the green glass to the rustic appeal of the brown bottle. It’s like having a piece of history on your mantle.
Pairing fresh flowers, like daisies and pink blooms, with these vintage bottles not only adds color but also brings a sense of life into your space. It’s an easy decor idea that requires minimal effort but makes a big impact. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to celebrate the beauty of summer blooms.
Whimsical Summer Signs for Personality

Decorating your mantle with summer signs adds a fun and personal touch to your home. The image features a charming collection of signs that celebrate the season with a playful flair. Each sign has a unique style, showcasing the word ‘SUMMER’ in different fonts and colors. This mix creates a lively atmosphere that perfectly matches the vibe of the sunny months.
The playful message on one of the signs, ‘I test I hink summer goecd shamer so fthen,’ adds a humorous twist. It’s these little quirks that make each sign special and bring a smile to your face. Pairing whimsical text with bright colors makes this decor stand out.
Incorporating these signs into your summer mantle decor not only provides a seasonal theme but also reflects your personality. Whether you choose to go bold with large letters or subtle with softer colors, there’s a sign that suits your style.
Chic Table Settings and Centerpieces

Summer mantle decor can really set the mood for gatherings. In this image, a beautifully styled table showcases a mix of colors and textures, perfect for warm evenings.
The wreath on the wall adds a natural touch with its vibrant orange flowers. This not only draws the eye but also complements the floral arrangements on the table. Using fresh flowers, like the roses and daisies presented in jars, creates a welcoming atmosphere.
Each place setting is thoughtfully arranged with crisp napkins and stylish plates, resting on woven chargers to enhance the summer vibe. The addition of wine glasses suggests a relaxed dining experience, encouraging guests to unwind.
Alongside the flowers, a candle offers soft lighting, ideal for summer nights. These elements work together to create a charming centerpiece that brings life to the mantle and table setting. The overall look is fresh and inviting, perfect for enjoying casual meals with family and friends.
Artistic Fruit Displays for a Fresh Appeal

When it comes to summer decor, nothing says freshness quite like a vibrant fruit display. The image showcases a stunning arrangement of various fruits, including bright oranges, juicy red apples, and a beautiful pomegranate, all artfully placed on a mantle. This delightful setup instantly brings a warm and inviting feel to any room.
Notice how the fruits are complemented by lovely floral arrangements. The vivid colors of the flowers enhance the natural beauty of the fruits, creating a harmonious look. Using seasonal blooms alongside your fruit can amplify the overall aesthetic while adding a touch of nature indoors.
Don’t hesitate to mix different textures and shapes. The roundness of oranges pairs nicely with the elongated bananas and the unique look of the pomegranate. This variety keeps the display visually interesting and showcases the bounty of summer.
For a personal touch, consider incorporating your favorite fruits or those that hold special memories, like the ones from your childhood. It’s a fun way to make your mantle decor uniquely yours. Plus, you can easily swap out fruits as they come into season, keeping your decor fresh all summer long.
Hanging Garlands for Added Texture

Hanging garlands are a delightful way to bring texture and color to your summer mantle decor. In the image, we see a vibrant display of flowers cascading gracefully along the mantelpiece. The mix of roses, vibrant blooms, and leafy greens creates a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for the season.
These garlands not only add a pop of color but also introduce an organic feel to your space. The different lengths of the flowers create an eye-catching effect. You can choose from a variety of flowers to match your personal style or seasonal themes.
To create your own garland, start by selecting a base—fresh flowers, faux blooms, or even a combination of both. Use floral wire or twine to attach the blooms to a sturdy string or ribbon. Drape the garland across your mantle, allowing some flowers to hang down for added flair. This layering technique enhances depth and visual interest.
Don’t forget to consider the overall color palette of your room. Bright, cheerful hues can energize a space, while soft pastels may evoke a more calming ambiance. Whatever you choose, hanging garlands are an easy and fun way to refresh your summer decor.
Exotic Fruit and Botanical Prints

Adding exotic fruit and botanical prints to your summer mantle decor brings a fresh and vibrant feel to your space. The image showcases a lovely arrangement of framed prints featuring colorful fruits like peaches and oranges, surrounded by lush green leaves. This creates a lively atmosphere perfect for the warmer months.
The botanical prints not only capture the beauty of these fruits but also add an artistic touch to your decor. Choose prints that complement your existing style, whether that’s modern, rustic, or vintage. They can serve as a focal point on your mantle, drawing attention and sparking conversation.
To enhance this look, consider incorporating real branches or faux greenery around the prints. This adds depth and a natural element that ties the whole display together. Fruits like cherries or pears can be used as decorative accents in bowls or as part of the greenery, adding dimension and a splash of color.
Experimenting with different arrangements can be fun. Try mixing and matching various sizes of prints or adding seasonal elements to keep your decor feeling fresh throughout the summer. The combination of botanical art and real fruit not only looks appealing but also celebrates the essence of summer.
Pastel Color Palette for Soft Elegance

Using a pastel color palette can add a touch of soft elegance to your summer mantle decor. The gentle hues create a calming atmosphere, perfect for warm months. In the image, notice how the pastel shades of pink and green blend seamlessly, enhancing the room’s light and airy feel.
Floral arrangements play a significant role in this aesthetic. The wall-mounted floral piece above the mantle is a striking focal point, showcasing delicate blossoms that echo the soft tones throughout the decor. This arrangement not only adds beauty but also brings a hint of nature indoors, making the space feel fresh and inviting.
The mantle display features various elements that complement each other beautifully. The elegant vase with flowers, the candle, and the chic bottles create a harmonious look. Each item is thoughtfully placed, contributing to an overall sense of balance without overwhelming the viewer.
A woven basket at the base adds texture and warmth, creating a cozy vibe. It’s a practical solution for storing decor items while enhancing the aesthetic. The bunting adds a playful touch, making it clear that summer is here!
Incorporating plants, like the leafy greens on the side, brings life and vibrancy to the space. They not only add color but also connect the indoors with the outdoors. This lively decor choice makes for a peaceful and charming mantle that feels right at home during the summer.
Layered Textures with Fabrics and Materials

In summer decor, layering textures can add depth and interest to your mantle. The image shows a lovely setup that beautifully combines different fabrics and materials. The soft, warm hues of the textiles, like the orange throw and cream blanket, invite a cozy feel, perfect for those sunny days. Each fabric has its own personality which contributes to the overall aesthetic.
The round mirror above the mantle creates a focal point while reflecting light, enhancing the space. The earthy tones of the vase and the greenery bring a touch of nature indoors, adding freshness. Mixing materials like wood, fabric, and glass makes the decor feel balanced and harmonious. Don’t forget to incorporate personal items that tell a story, such as books or a handwoven basket, to make your space uniquely yours.
Consider experimenting with different combinations of textures. A chunky knit throw paired with a smooth glass vase can create a lovely contrast. Layering is not just about colors; it’s about how the different materials interact with each other to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your home.