Oscar Bravo Home

Let's face it; during the summer months the last thing you want to see in your home is a roaring fire. Even in "paradise" AKA San Diego, it still gets uncomfortably hot.  I know us Southern California natives have a reputation for being spoiled, but I'm sorry -any day hotter than 85° is too much for me. I mean, I'm paying an arm and a leg to live here because of the "perfect weather" and to me that means a steady 70 to 75°  EVE-RY DAY.  If not, then I want a discount, a refund, OR SOMETHING




Anyway, enough about my weather rant. Let's talk fireplaces! A fireplace is usually the focal point of a room so if you aren't using it, instead of leaving a bare black hole in your wall, dress it up! Give yourself something nice to look at!

I was scrolling through Pinterest the other day and came across a beautiful picture of a fireplace filled with shells and coral by designer Mark Sikes.  I was like, I CAN DO THAT! I have a decent collection of coral pieces that might be enough to fill that empty fireplace of mine. And that's what I did. Take a look :)





I was SUPER nervous about breaking one of my beloved coral pieces -especially the "birds nest" coral piece that is on the top. That one is very fragile AND it happens to be my favorite piece. I carefully placed each piece, one on top of the other and fortunately not one piece of coral was broken.

 After all the larger pieces of coral were stacked, I layered in some sea urchins and starfish to add some depth and interest to my little vingette. I stood back to admire it and you know what...I like it! Actually... I LOVE IT! Here is the inspiration photo that I have pinned on Pinterest. It's BEAUTIFUL. Each piece of coral is laid out perfectly.

Desinger Mark Sikes via InStyle

My fireplace is a bit deeper and I didn't have as much coral so I used a tray to prop up my pieces. It was either that or go on a hunt to purchase more coral which would have been fun but I decided to improvise and save some time and money.






I can confidently say that I think I nailed it! After I put in the coral, I styled the mantel with my favorite brass jug and a little vintage oil painting of the ocean which continues the summer vibe going on here.
















Hey, I actually have a whole board dedicated to fireplace and mantel styling over on Pinterest. Click HERE to check it out and and follow along if you aren't already.

-Oscar