One of the easiest ways I refresh my home is by changing the mantel each season. It’s my favorite part of decorating, and since I’m a summer person at heart, a beachy summer mantel always feels like a treat.
I prefer simple changes—low fuss and maximum impact. A few well-chosen pieces can transform the whole room without a major overhaul.
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Welcome to a tour of my simple beachy living room and mantel. This is the view you see when you enter the house, so I like to make it feel fresh and welcoming for every season.
The framed canvas above the mantel was a recent DIY project. I originally hung the canvas without a frame and found the wall swallowed it up, so I crafted a chunky, distressed wooden frame from scrap wood to give the piece presence and texture.
I used techniques to add texture and beachy distressing so the frame complements the ocean-inspired colors in the print. The photo itself was taken on an annual beach trip and the colors — turquoise, navy, and mint — are what inspired the name of this blog.
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Because the frame is asymmetrical, I chose to balance the display with symmetrical pieces on either side of the mantel. The clean symmetry helps the art remain the focal point while providing a polished, coastal look.
I found olive buckets filled with lamb’s ears, eucalyptus, and lavender and loved the effortless, natural vibe they brought to the mantel. Buying pre-arranged stems was a big time-saver—ask your local floral department to arrange something similar if you want the same look without the work.
I added small vases filled with decorative shells to continue the coastal theme. They were vase fillers I’d picked up previously, which is an easy and affordable way to layer texture and seaside charm onto a mantel.
Keep mantel decorating simple: choose a proportionate centerpiece and flank it with two smaller items for balance. That single design rule can make any mantel look intentional and styled without becoming cluttered.
On the table sits a wooden box I built this spring—one of my favorite DIY pieces. It adds rustic texture and anchors the tabletop vignette. I also brought in patterned turquoise pillows on the couch to echo the colors in the artwork; they were a clearance find that finally found its place this season.
I kept most of the room as-is for summer, adding just a few accents. A small stack of recently loved books sits on my end table, including titles that inspire simplicity and presence—perfect reads for slow summer days.
One cozy corner with a blanket ladder remains unchanged—sometimes the best summer updates are simply the little touches that highlight what you already love.
Now, a quick look at the entryway: I used several items from last year and added a few fresh details. A weathered rope “relax” sign brings a casual coastal feel, while small sailboat decor and a cheerful lemon wreath add seasonal charm.
The lemon wreath is a favorite simple accent—bright, fun, and perfect for summer. I’m planning to add a matching wreath to the front door soon to complete the look.
Thank you for joining me on this tour of my living room mantel and entryway. Simple, beach-inspired touches can make your home feel lighter and more inviting for summer—no major makeover required. I’ll share more summer decor ideas in a few weeks.