It's getting chilly here at night now. In fact, the weatherman's forecasted the possibility of snow showers here tonight and, as a result, I'm starting to think about roaring fires and cups of cocoa. Of course, my fireplace it doesn't exactly say "holiday spirit" right now. Fortunately, interior designer Elaine Griffin gave me some tips for making my mantel stand out this holiday season.

"Mantels become the instant focal point in any room that's lucky enough to have one," says Elaine, "so feel free to festoon yours festively for the holiday season." Her secret to setting a stunning surround for your fireplace? Layering. Think foreground, middle ground and background when you're arranging you display. Elaine favors cut branches and holiday ornaments in clear glass vessels or oversized bowls for a simple, modern look. Adorn any kind of branch with tree ornaments, tinsel and garland and you'll have a holiday mantel that looks as good as a Christmas card.

photo: a. gault/getty mages