Mirrors are a really important part of interior design. Not only are they functional but they can also be treated like pieces of art and make different areas become focal points. But with so many styles and sizes to choose from, how do you know where to put a mirror?
The good news is that there are a couple of rules to follow to ensure you make the most out of your mirrors when it comes to decorating your home.
We’re going to take you through our favourite mirror-related interior design tips so you can flood your house with natural light, bring beautiful design details to your home and still check out how great you look!
How to Use Mirrors in Interior Design
There are lots of things you need to think about when it comes to hanging up or positioning mirrors. Of course, we all know that mirrors look great when styling a mantelpiece, but there are so many other ways to use them and things to think about too.
1. Check Functionality
If you want to use your mirror to double-check your outfit or top up your makeup then you need to be able to see into it well. After all, what’s the point in a mirror if it crops off the top of your head or you need to stand on tiptoes? The ideal height for a mirror depends on its shape and size. Make sure you test the height of the mirror before you start drilling, to ensure you can see everything you want to comfortably.
2. Place Mirrors Close to Windows to Maximise Natural Light
One of the main benefits of using mirrors in interior design is that they’re the perfect way to brighten up a room with natural light. When placed opposite or next to a window, mirrors reflect any light that’s entering which can make even dark rooms feel airy. What’s more, they also reflect greenery from outside, so help to create a natural, soft and fresh decor. And it’s not just big mirrors that can make a difference. Even small or vanity mirrors can help to brighten up a corner when they reflect natural light.
3. Use Mirrors to Make a Room Seem Bigger
Mirrors can act a little like optical illusions. When placed in the correct place, they can make a room seem more spacious. This is especially true for mirrors that look like windows. They create the illusion of natural light which can really brighten up and open out the space. For instance, entrances, hallways and downstairs bathrooms often don’t have windows. Adding a large mirror will make them feel less cramped as they can reflect the light from a wall light or floor lamp.
4. Create A Focal Point
Mirrors are the perfect design accessory to create a focal point. You can use large mirrors with standout frames, or group smaller mirrors of different shapes and sizes to create a cluster. You can even create an entire mirror wall using mirror tiles – something that goes really well with modern and minimalist interior design.
5. Think About The Type of Glass
Mirrors don’t always have to look new and shiny (OK, maybe those you want to use to apply your makeup do), but focal mirrors can be old and faded. In fact, vintage mirrors where the silvering has faded can act as pieces of art. They’re unique and bring a sense of regal beauty to a room. It may not be to everyone’s taste, but vintage mirrors work really well when contrasted with modern design and used as a highlight or focal point.
6. Play with Symmetry and Shape
Different-shaped mirrors are perfect for creating symmetry in a room. Mirrors work amazingly on either side of a door, creating a sense of symmetry whilst also reflecting the room and light back. As well as doors, mirrors can work well on either side of a fireplace or other focal points in a room. This usually works best with vertical mirrors that can complement panelling on the wall and let other decorative items on the mantel have their space.
7. Use Mirrored Accessories
Mirrors don’t always have to be big features hanging on a wall. Sometimes understated accessories can work just as well for reflecting light, brightening up a room and adding a touch of interest and design. A mirrored tray is a great way to style a coffee table and works particularly well with a small plant on top to reflect even more greenery and light into the room. Mirrored vases are great accessories that go with many interior design styles and are something a little different too.
8. Lean Mirrors Instead of Hanging Them
Leaning large and ornate mirrors is a great way to make the decor of the room more relaxed and understated. It works well with all different kinds of mirrors but full-length, wooden-framed mirrors are particularly appealing when leaned against a wall. You can also layer them with different objects, such as a stool or box to create levels to interest the eye.
9. Choose the Right Mirror and Frame for Your Style
Because mirrors come in all shapes and sizes, choosing the correct one that will go with the rest of your interior design is important. For example, if your furniture and decor are minimalist and modern, you may want to think about a mirror with no frame or a thin black one. If, however, your style is more bohemian and whimsical you could opt for a mirror with a large frame made from distressed wood or raffia.
10. Create a Gallery Wall
Gallery walls don’t just have to be built up of pictures and photographs. Mirrors can work equally well – and it’s a great excuse for you to get creative! You can use different sizes and shapes to create a beautiful wall full of texture and vibrancy. Thrifted mirrors look amazing on gallery walls or you could use a mix of thrifted and new for contrast.
Time to Reflect – How Can You Use Mirrors in Your Home?
Mirrors are both decorative and functional and can be used in almost any home decor. Whether you want a large feature mirror above the mantel or a window-like one to brighten up a dark space, mirrors are ideal for getting more natural light into your home. They come in all different shapes and sizes and you can play around with their frames to create your ideal overall look. They can be statement-makers or soften up the natural glow of a room – either way, they’re perfect for enhancing your decor.