I like the floral one (even though I have one more similar to the other on my fireplace!)

I think you need a painting that is slightly narrower than the fireplace, and with more breathing room between the painting and mantel/ceiling than either of the ones you have. Rectangular might be better.

I personally like the higher contrast picture, but either work, so use the one you love the most. I would move the desk to the other side of the fireplace, flat on the wall, and put the smaller table on the side by the drapes with a small picture above it. Make the midpoint of the smaller artwork even with the top of the mantel.

HI -- Well everyone has said what I was going to say so I just want to mention ... your cat is beautiful ! Oh maybe one thing ..... you need a much bigger area rug ... room size minus 18 inches around .

I would have the picture maybe 3- 5 in off the mantel, then accessorize to the right and left of the picture.

It looks too large for that area. Once you hang it a few inches above the mantle, it will hit the crown molding at the top. Even if it just leans as it is now it's still too large. I like the previous one better because it's a bit more airy, but even that one is too tall for that place. Look for a rectangular one that is slightly narrower than the fireplace

From seeing this room, it's clear that scale is your problem. Yes, that picture is not the right size/shape for that mantle. You need to remove that piece of furniture from the corner and decorate each side of the fireplace the same size. Your area rug is too small. Your coffee table is too small. Work on finding the right size and the right balance in your decorating.

I find it a touch too large and dark as well. The floral is soft but if you accessorize the mantle with heavier weighted accessories, it will feel more balanced and less feminine. Sconces on either side would be nice as well. In regards to your room...I have some ideas that I thought I would share. Can the piece to the right of the fireplace (and I would remove plants from the top) be exchanged with the smaller piece that is in the bottom of your photo and place flat against the wall next to the fireplace and accessorize (see 2nd picture). Place your single chair to the left of the fireplace with the small table next to it - bring them into the room a bit, for better conversation. I also think the rug is too small. See 1st picture below for ideas around sconces, size of rug, location of chair near fireplace. Some have mentioned your coffee table is too small, but perhaps if you add a tray/books, etc. it would give it more substance. It would be great as well, if you added more pillows on your couch and intermix solids/patterns.

First picture is okay, once you hang it and there is some space between it and the mantel. Then, that's it. Leave the mantel bare. You will need nothing else.

One thing that detracts from the mantel is the lovely desk jammed into the corner. Please find a better spot for it so it can shine.

I do think you're missing an opportunity to add more color and something a little more interesting above the fireplace.

The second one, the floral is PERFECT! I like that it's big, adds drama to the gentle subject matter. It definitely suites your decor better than the dark, tree trunk one. So what if it's feminine! Try flanking it with your two potted plants (that's probably how you had it). Be happy with that and play around with your furniture placement instead : )

Here is a link that should be helpful https://www.houzz.com/magazine/the-dos-and-donts-of-hanging-art-above-a-fireplace-stsetivw-vs~70773521

Haha yes I did! Actually I decided to go with the two design professionals advice and hang the picture. It looks much nicer than resting on the mantle and there is space above and below the picture. The link above showed some very large pictures above fireplaces and even though that does break some of the standard guideline rules regarding scale it looks great. Sometimes I think it's ok to break the rules. I did move some furniture around to balance the room better. Also the photo does not show the whole space and on an opposite wall there is a chase lounge antique dresser and large mirror above it. The room is actually more balanced than it appears in the photo in its entirety. I do appreciate all of the advice as it was all great. I guess in the end it depends on what you love and enjoy in your own home! ❤️❤️❤️

glad to hear that we could help somehow

A few examples of living room designs of ours from our portfolio might help you along. Take note of the artwork over the fireplace.

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Rustic Modern Design · More Info

Woodside Model Home · More Info