Rustic Fall Mantel

We have a new mantel. 

I could not be happier that the chunky brick monstrosity of a fireplace and mantel isn’t as much of an eyesore as it used to be.  We have lived in this home over 13 years and for 13 years, I have really disliked our fireplace.  So, I figured it was way past time to do something about it.  And after it was completed, I really had NO answer for why I didn’t do it sooner.  Well, I did.  Husband.  But, that’s another post. 🙂  I am here to share my new rustic, wood mantel all dressed for Fall. 

Rustic Fall Mantel

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If you are new to The Everyday Home, I can say this fireplace has been through a small change already.  I painted the red brick years ago in an attempt to make the brick go away.  Then, I added a wood panel at the top above the mantel.  

Here is my Christmas Mantel and Fireplace after it was painted all white…

And last year after I added a wood backing above the mantel.  For last year’s Fall Mantel, I used liquid starch to adhere some Jacobean fabric. 

But, I just wasn’t happy.  It wasn’t right.  So after putting off a DIY Fireplace and Mantel Makeover project all year, I decided to call in someone to do it for me, my fave Handyman.  🙂

He added wide beadboard on both sides and above the mantel.  But, the biggest change came when he created a large, rustic mantel that covered the step-out brick mantel which I truly despised.  I stained it Dark Walnut then distressed it lightly.  LOVE!  

The beadboard matches the beadboard across the opposite side of the dining room.  I shared that space here in my Fall Buffet post.  My handyman also made the mantel itself deeper, so I can sit much more on top than I ever could before.  Such as a pair of these mercury glass lamps…

They are perfect and I love the juxtaposition between the rustic mantel and the bling of the mercury glass lamp with a burlap shade. I hung Buck back in his place of honor.  I have had him for several years now and I still love him. 

I arranged a layer of assorted heirloom pumpkins and gourds along the mantel.

I tucked in berries and fern and dried sunflowers heads. 

The display only took a few minutes to arrange.  I had originally thought about adding a wreath of some sort around Buck, but once I stood back – it was enough just like it was. 

Rustic and charming and….autumnal.

I decided to leave the white painted brick around the fireplace opening as is, instead of also covering it with the beadboard. But informed my Handyman I reserved the right to change my mind. 😀   It needs a fresh coat of white paint, and then I can add some more Fall touches to the hearth.  (I have something super cute planned I can’t wait to show you.)

So what do you think?  Yay or Nay?  Do you like the changes?  I will share the entire fireplace makeover with you next week, as well as, a full shot of the Dining Room Dressed for Fall. 

Thanks for letting me share my “new” Rustic Fall Mantel with you.

xxoo, Barb

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 Deer Head |  Faux Fern Stems | Faux Pumpkins from Park Hill

Fall Berries | Dried Sunflower Heads | Mercury Lamp Base | Burlap Shade 

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