Proportions in fireplace alcove styling

2 years ago

We have had cabinets and shelves added either side of our fireplace. The fireplace itself has no surround and just an electric stove in it which is unused. Above the fireplace we have a really big clock.
We have two shelves above the two cabinets on either side of the fireplace. There is a 50cm gap above and below each shelf.
I was hoing to put large but limited things on the shelves to make it reasonably uncluttered. However, I feel as though I have got the proportions all wrong and the shelves just seem to make it feel cluttered and really detracts from the focal point which is the clock.
Are there any rules of thumb about getting the proportions right and tying it together?

Comments (8)

PRO
Kingfisher Designs
2 years ago
Do you have a photo?
Sian Andrew
Original Author
2 years ago
Not the best picture. The stuff on the shelves will be different once I have finished!
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I agree that if your alcoves are the same width, ie symmetrical, then treating both the same retains the symmetry. However, if you want to spark it up a bit go for 'balance' instead. This means you treat the alcoves differently, aim to make them work together visually. A suggestion: Decide if you want all your shelves in one alcove or could you have some in one and some in the other at different heights? Then add something else to go with them. For instance, a painting to compliment shelves at a lower level.... a small chest to compliment shelves at a higher level. This solution will hopefully please you both!
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Ellie
2 years ago
I think your shelves look great.

For me, it's the clock that isn't right. It's not a feature for me. Size is ok, so if you like it then leave it.

I'd also remove the chair away from Infront of the fireplace, just bring out that chair when needed.
Sian Andrew
Original Author
2 years ago
Thanks agree on the chair and will remove. I am going to replace the chairs anyway and remove the table protector once I have varnished it.

What would make a better feature than the clock?
PRO
Haysey Design & Consultancy Ltd
2 years ago
last modified: 2 years ago
Hi Sian,

I think the clock is great.

Re the shelves its all about balance and grouping objects, so keep standing back and seeing the whole scene. Symmetry is naturally pleasing on the eye so , if you go large on the right do the same on the left, group objects in 3's,spread out the photographs, put some on the left too.

Play around with candles, stacks of 3 nice covered books you like or that have some meaning to you, laid horizontally with ornaments of votives on top, try and link colours from your room onto those shelves too. The way you dress your home should tell your guests about you. Reveal hints of who you are to add depth and interest. You'll love it much more if you dress it that way too.

Add a plant to one of the shelves on the other side too.

It's quite fun to do, you just need a bit more to play around with here. Balance will oddly help it to seem less cluttered.

Hope that helps!
I
2 years ago
If you're not happy with the clock, you can have a mirror or a piece of art.
Sian Andrew
Original Author
2 years ago
Hayley - thanks that is very helpful
Sian Andrew
Original Author
2 years ago
Sorry that was an autocorrect Haysey

Proportions in fireplace alcove styling

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Kingfisher Designs

Sian Andrew
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Ellie

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Proportions in fireplace alcove styling

Comments (8)

Kingfisher Designs

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Ellie

Sian AndrewOriginal Author

Haysey Design & Consultancy Ltd

I

Sian AndrewOriginal Author

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