Here is a tricky design question. Susan writes:Hi Pam,.After two years, I still cannot figure out what to put on these shelves that are built into my fireplace! They are 10.5″ wide and 5.75″ deep, and they are spaced about 11.5″ apart (vertically, from the top of one shelf to the top of the next, if that makes sense). I thought I’d pose the question to you (and possibly your readers), since I can’t be the only one struggling with this….Thanks,Susan, aka Kitty Mommy
Readers — what do you think? How can Susan decorate this space?
Mid-century modern decorating with orange 
Tips for decorating your mid century guest room 
Retro Renovation Best of 2010: 9 favorite mid century decorating stories 
Become a fan
I would sugest a flowing bonsai tree or three diffrent style bonsai trees..
We have basically the same thing on our fireplace in our 1955 ranch (we have 4 shelves and they aren’t quite in a line like yours). During Christmas, I hang wreaths from the shelves, which works well. The rest of the year, I have three small oil paintings that just fit on each shelf. They are kind of tricky because anything too small will look out of proportion with the rest of the fireplace – so finding something with enough visual weight is key. A lot of little things can look cluttered – I think a few larger pieces in a color that contrasts with the stone looks better.
The small bonsai idea is nice. For a tight budget (and greater color impact) try using medium sized canvases from local craft store (9×12, 11×14, etc.) paint three different flat colors from the SW retro color pallet using those that fit your decor. Colors should be impactful choices — ones that will draw in the eye.
You should put some mcm glass on the shelves, perhaps something by Blenko? http://www.laurelleaffarm.com/photos/w81152.jpg