Fireplace Anatomy for the Holidays

“The stockings were hung by the chimney with care.” – Twas the Night Before Christmas Fireplaces are the seat of warmth and light in the home—especially this time of year—but where exactly do we hang our stockings? Good question. Words like “hearth,” “mantel,” and “chimney” are tossed around this time of year and it's difficult to keep everything straight.

Luckily, we sketched a diagram of the fireplace basics to clear the confusion (see above).

Now that you understand fireplace anatomy, how are you decorating your fireplace this holiday season? Garland and ornaments galore? We are here to help. Dress your mantel for the season with these tips and easy garland inspiration below.

Pin our diagram from our new Pinterest fireplace board and peruse some of our favorite fireplace designs along with Alice Lane’s customized fireplaces designs and mantel styling.