Step into a realm of sophistication and refined taste as we delve into the transformative capabilities of mirrors within interior design. Mirrors have evolved into an indispensable element, capable of brightening compact areas, fostering an illusion of depth, and injecting both reflection and elegance into any room. Whether your aim is to craft a chic statement or amplify natural light, this guide serves as your companion in mastering the art of integrating mirrors into your interior scheme.
Discover expert insights and ingenious techniques for choosing the ideal mirror for each space, optimising its position for maximum impact, and generating breathtaking visual effects that will captivate your guests. From classic to contemporary aesthetics, we’ll explore a diverse range of mirror designs, examining their capacity to magnify decor, complement furnishings, and reflect your distinct sense of style. Consider, for instance, how the Portofino Rattan Mirror or Caldera Mirror can elegantly frame seasonal foliage or enhance natural light during warmer months.
Embark on this exploration with us as we unveil the secrets of utilising mirrors in interior design, inspiring you to embrace their transformative power within your own home. Let’s bring reflection and style to the forefront of your interior design endeavors.
How Are Mirrors Utilised in Interior Design?
Mirrors have transcended their traditional role as mere grooming tools, evolving into dynamic elements within interior design. They function not just as practical objects for personal reflection but also as potent design instruments capable of fundamentally altering living spaces. One of their pivotal advantages lies in their remarkable capacity to create the illusion of a larger room. By reflecting and disseminating light throughout a space, mirrors possess the magic to expand even the most modest rooms, instilling a sense of spaciousness and airiness.
For example, the Denali Mirror, with its stonecast frame modelled on a natural tree trunk and hand-painted finish, introduces both organic texture and subtle elegance to an interior. Ideal for amplifying light and fostering a feeling of greater space, it also serves as a statement piece that bridges natural forms and refined artistry.
Beyond their spatial influence, mirrors play a strategic role as focal points within a room. Thoughtfully positioned mirrors draw attention to specific areas or features, injecting visual interest and depth into the overall decor. Their unique ability to reflect and magnify the inherent beauty of their surroundings makes mirrors an invaluable addition to any aesthetic, seamlessly integrating into diverse interior design schemes.
In the realm of interior design, mirrors offer a canvas of limitless possibilities. Whether your objective is to evoke a sense of luxury, imbue a touch of glamour, or make a bold statement, mirrors prove to be versatile accessories that cater to varied design preferences. Their adaptability to complement any style positions mirrors as indispensable components for design enthusiasts, contributing to the holistic visual appeal of interior spaces.
Tips For Where to Place Your Mirror In Your Home
When it comes to placing mirrors in your home, strategic positioning can significantly impact both visual appeal and functionality. Here are some key suggestions for placing mirrors in different areas:
Hang Next to or Opposite Windows to Increase Light
Mirrors should be hung where they can reflect natural light to help a room feel brighter. A mirror will generally reflect the most light when it is hung directly opposite a window, but it will also capture and reflect a significant amount of light when it is positioned next to a window.
Consider the Cecilia Mirror, with its elegant shell-adorned frame, placed opposite a window to bounce daylight deep into your room while adding an artisanal touch to your decor.
You can create a more airy and luminous atmosphere in the room throughout the day by using a mirror in this way. Your newly installed mirrors will enhance any available natural light, even in the absence of direct sunlight or on overcast days.
Using Artificial Light Reflection to Brighten an Area
Don’t hesitate to use mirrors to reflect artificial light as well as natural daylight. When designing the interior of a space with minimal or no windows, leverage mirrors to maximise the available illumination.
The amount of light generated by a mirror can be significantly affected by its placement in relation to a desk lamp, wall light, or floor lamp. Furthermore, the mirror will amplify and diffuse light without creating a cold or harsh atmosphere.
Establish a Focal Point
Mirrors can be used to accentuate existing architectural features, such as mantles, but they can also stand alone as captivating statement pieces. Mirrors can be employed to draw attention to a focal point in a room that doesn’t already possess one.
For example, a carved, elaborate mirror, like the Rococo Mirror, can have the same impact as a sculpture or painting, blending drama with utility. Coloured mirrors can be whimsical and enjoyable. If you prefer not to hang a large, imposing mirror, create a focal point on one wall with a collection of smaller pieces.
To Make Smaller Spaces Feel Larger, Recreate Windows
Many areas within a house, such as hallways and bathrooms, may lack windows to let in natural light. These spaces can instantly feel more expansive by hanging a mirror to simulate a window.
Additionally, a mirror can be used to achieve the illusion of seamlessly blending one space into another. Adding a mirror to a partition wall that divides an otherwise open-plan area, for instance, will unify the entire space.
You can even select a mirror for this purpose that mimics the dimensions and design of a small window; consider the Point Convex Mirror for a rounded, window-like visual.
Try Your Hand at Mirrored Art
A home or office can greatly benefit from the addition of artwork. A room can be made brighter and more positive while showcasing powerful design with mirrored art. Combining a mirror with other materials like wood, metal, or coloured glass can create an astonishing wall décor piece. Larger pieces can even be used to craft an eye-catching accent wall in high-traffic areas such as foyers and hallways.
The Cornelia Mirror (Blue Glass) is a beautiful choice for creating mirrored art that blends colour and reflection for added impact.
Use Grey and Black Mirrors to Make a Statement
There’s more to using mirrors to enhance your home’s aesthetic than just sticking with standard glass that provides a “mirror image.” Dark-coloured mirrors can become an intriguing statement piece, much like mirrored artwork.
An Octagonal Beaded Mirror in Black pairs perfectly with contemporary decor, adding a dramatic, reflective element to bold spaces.
A mirror in black, grey, slate, or bronze will look striking with contemporary decor and introduce a touch of brightness to bold spaces. When paired with an industrial interior or natural materials, this contemporary styling will draw attention to and enhance the area.
Place Mirrors at Appropriate Heights
Generally speaking, mirrors should be hung between 57 and 65 inches (approximately 145-165 cm) from the floor, or roughly at eye level. Nevertheless, the optimal placement depends on the precise location of your mirror and its surrounding elements.
In situations where you are hanging a mirror above furniture, the mirror’s placement will depend on the furniture’s height. To create a “visual break” between the furniture beneath the mirror and the mirror’s bottom edge, you should ideally leave at least four inches (approximately 10 cm) of space between the two pieces.
Ensure that there won’t be an excessive gap between the mirror and the furniture when hanging mirrors above it. Alternatively, opt for a small but striking mirror that will make a statement without overwhelming the space.
Lean Mirrors Instead of Hanging Them
A simple solution for newly acquired mirrors or artwork that you consistently delay hanging is to lean them against walls or furniture. This allows you to display your latest acquisitions while creating a relaxed, layered look.
For instance, consider a tall, rectangular piece such as the Portofino Rattan Mirror for a leaning application; its elegant vertical profile introduces both height and understated drama when rested against a wall in a hallway, bedroom, or dressing area.
Paolo Moschino’s Mirror Collection
A curated collection of mirrors designed to suit any interior design style:
- Pair of 19th Century French Faux Bamboo Wall Mirrors
- Cecilia Mirror
- Caldera Mirror Large
- Pair of 19th Century French Painted Mirrors
- 19th Century English Convex Mirror
- Caldera Mirror Small
- Denali Mirror Large
- Denali Mirror Small
- Andorra Mirror Large
- Andorra Mirror Small
- Portofino Rattan Mirror
- Buko Rectangular Mirror
Types of Mirrors for Different Design Styles
When choosing a mirror for your interior design, it’s crucial to consider the overall style and aesthetic of your space. Different mirror designs can complement various design styles and enhance the overall look and feel of a room.
The Headline Item
Adding a statement mirror to your wall is a fantastic way to introduce an artistic element. Supercharged designs with generous proportions and strong personalities create a focal point and are ideal for bringing intrigue to your home’s transitional spaces, such as hallways and corridors. Note how the sunburst mirror in this Chelsea home by Helen Green Design is skilfully positioned between the doors of the room it faces, as well as over the hallway console table.
For dramatic impact in transitional spaces like hallways or large entryways, a statement mirror is key. The Catalan Mirror, with its substantial frame and elegant detailing, instantly becomes a focal point, adding grandeur and artistic flair to even the simplest walls.
The Linear
High impact and a modern aesthetic are the hallmarks of geometric mirrors, though certain shapes are also associated with the Art Deco period. With its silver octagonal design, this mirror in a Parisian home effectively utilises the empty space above the fireplace. Because of its eye-catching sheen and ideal placement, the mirror draws attention independently, without the need for dramatic furniture or lighting arrangements.
Clean lines and geometric precision are hallmarks of contemporary or Art Deco spaces. The Octagonal Beaded Mirror brings modern sophistication to a fireplace or console arrangement, its dark frame offering sharp contrast against lighter wall tones or materials.
The Designer
Two ornamental mirrors are chosen for this elegant dining room. Their slim profiles accentuate the wall mouldings, and their rounded peaks introduce interest to the distinct muted colour scheme. Consider how the mirrors are positioned on either side of the fireplace rather than directly above it, allowing the ornate chandelier, rustic accents, and flowers to take centre stage.
For refined dining rooms or living spaces, subtle yet impactful mirrors can highlight architectural features. The Andorra Mirror, with its minimalist silhouette and muted finish, pairs beautifully on either side of a fireplace or large artwork, framing the space without overwhelming it.
The Bowl of Fish
This incredibly stylish living area demonstrates how small mirror accents can significantly impact the overall look of the space. Alongside the mid-century furniture designs, the room’s retro vibe is enhanced by the fishbowl-shaped, custom-made mirrored fireplace created by the French designer. Crafted by Parisian metalworkers from the same bright polished metal as the fireplace, they add coherence to the space.
Smaller mirrors or rounded shapes can add a playful, mid-century, or eclectic feel. Consider the Buko Round Mirror, whose natural material and circular form brings warmth and texture, perfect for complementing wooden furniture or layered textiles.
The Masterpiece in Mosaic
This room’s breathtaking redesign is from a 10,000-square-foot Georgian home. A true maximalist, the designer goes all out in this room, elevating the installation of mirrored surfaces to new heights. To increase perceived height and light, individual reflective surfaces build up to create a mosaic effect that extends from the floor to the ceiling.
For maximalist interiors or those seeking a bold statement, the Cornelia Mirror – Blue Glass offers vibrant colour and intricate detailing that mimics the effect of mosaic art, drawing the eye and adding depth to any wall.
The Copycat
The masterful dining room design is the result of several plays featuring a recurring mirror display. The three identical full-length designs demonstrate that items arranged in threes have a visually pleasing effect, transforming blank wall space into a room’s focal point.
The large mirrors, arranged sequentially so that only a small portion of the neutral wall colour is visible, greatly enhance the impression of space. Their frames remain slender and gold, matching the tasteful colour palette but receding so the reflective glass can perform its magic on the room.
The Participant
The interior’s use of multiple mirrors and the resulting effect speak for themselves. To create the most light-filled space possible, a mirrored wall is purposefully combined with a glossy marble staircase, a metallic handrail, and a transparent lighting fixture that incorporates crystal shards.
To maximise light and create a seamless flow between spaces, the Rope Mirror blends artisan craftsmanship with understated elegance. Ideal for reflecting staircases, corridors, or adjacent rooms, it helps create continuity in open-plan living.
With just a quick glance at the mirrored wall, one can clearly discern the exquisite interior design both upstairs and downstairs thanks to the reflective panelling, which also creates a fluid transition from room to room.
The Power Source
This image of a dressing room effectively demonstrates how mirrors can amplify the sense of light and space in cramped, smaller areas with limited natural light. This dressing room’s curved ceiling, muted colour scheme, and thoughtful lighting all harmonise to complement the room’s narrow dimensions and wide, sliding mirrored doors. The room’s arched shoe cabinet appears twice its actual size due to the reflective wardrobe.
The Space’s Characteristic
The enormous reflective surface that serves as the focal point of this Knightsbridge hallway showcases the immeasurable benefits of mirrors. The room divider with mirrors adds light to the otherwise dark furniture and woodwork. Its position behind the sideboard highlights the canvas on the opposite wall and reflects the image of lovely table lamps and vases. Take styling cues from this space and utilise a mirror to display your most recent artwork acquisition.
The Reflection
This Hyde Park home features two large wall mirrors strategically used to create a symmetrical display. The traditional modern living room achieves an almost perfect mirror image by pairing identical table lamps, cushions, and artwork with matching furniture designs. The room exudes a feng shui ambiance and is made even more beautiful with the addition of two complementary mirrors.
The Contemporary Classic
In this picture, the wall mirror elevates the impressive living space with its classic, square silhouette. Because of its size, being nearly as wide as the sofa, the looking glass is not easily overlooked. It also adds depth to the otherwise muted wallpaper by reflecting the striking green canvas located at the other end of the room. Observe how it’s positioned to highlight the eye-catching chandelier as well.
If your space leans traditional yet updated, the Imperia Mirror – Antique Silver provides timeless charm with just the right touch of modern sheen, its antique silver finish enhancing muted wallpapers or neutral painted walls.
The Omnivore
Mirrors are not always the only surfaces that offer reflective qualities. Mirrored furniture is an alternative way to benefit from mirrors if your wall is occupied by elaborate wallpaper, wall lights, or artwork. This sideboard is the ideal illustration of the enhancing effects of mirrored casegoods. Fronted with mirrored glass and geometric detailing, it gives the impression of an extending marble floor.
Using Mirrors To Brighten A Room
Placing a mirror next to or opposite a window will increase the amount of natural light that enters a room because it will reflect any available daylight, no matter how gloomy the outside sky may be. The larger the mirror, the more expansive and brighter the space will feel. An oversized mirror, such as the Santa Barbara Mirror with its generous proportions and elegant detailing, is ideal for creating a lighter, airier feel in a bedroom or living space. Positioned above a mirrored chest of drawers or console table, it maximises reflection and brightens the room.
Not only can natural light be manipulated in this way, but mirrors also excel at highlighting the output of other light sources. Placing a mirror next to a table lamp, such as the Oval Carved Mirror, can make a significant difference when decorating a large area or a dim corner, helping to amplify and diffuse the glow for added warmth and ambience.
Choosing The Right Mirror Size
You may be asking yourself countless questions when it comes to selecting the perfect mirror. In a room with high ceilings, what is the ideal height for a mirror? How should a large wall mirror be chosen? What shape is ideal for a mantelpiece mirror? Do larger mirrors work better? Do mirrors make my room appear bigger or smaller? All valid inquiries. The best mirror for you will ultimately be determined by what you aim to achieve and where you intend to place it.
It’s important to measure the area where you plan to hang, stand, or support your mirror because, generally speaking, the mirror’s width should be approximately two-thirds that of the object it hangs above (like a console table). The Andorra Mirror, for instance, works beautifully above substantial furniture pieces thanks to its balanced scale and understated elegance.
The mirror should be hung so that its centre is in your direct line of sight if its intended use is functional rather than merely decorative. After all, what good is a mirror if you can’t comfortably see into it? If possible, have someone hold it in place so you can assess the placement from a distance and make an informed choice.
Choosing The Right Frame For Your Mirror
The frame of a mirror plays a significant role in its overall visual impact and how well it complements your interior design. Here are some tips for choosing the right frame for your mirror:
- Traditional Style: For a traditional or classic look, opt for frames crafted from wood with intricate carvings or gilded details. Ornate frames featuring patterns or motifs can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your space. The Rococo Mirror, with its hand-carved frame, is a perfect example of this timeless style.
- Modern Style: For a modern or contemporary look, consider frameless mirrors or frames with sleek, clean lines. Minimalist frames made of metal or glass create a sense of simplicity and sophistication. The Dutch Mirror offers a restrained, geometric frame that works well in streamlined interiors.
- Eclectic Style: If you prefer an eclectic or bohemian style, choose frames with unique shapes or unconventional materials. Mirrors like the Buko Round Mirror, featuring natural textures and artisanal craftsmanship, can add a touch of whimsy and individuality to your space.
- Matching the Decor: Consider matching the frame of your mirror to the existing decor in the room. If you have wooden furniture or accents, a mirror like the Oval Carved Mirror can tie the look together beautifully, blending with surrounding wood tones for cohesion.
- Size and Proportion: Consider the size and proportion of the mirror in relation to the wall and surrounding furniture. A large mirror with a wide frame, such as the Imperia Mirror – Antique Silver, can make a bold statement, while a smaller piece with a refined edge can lend a subtle touch of elegance.
Remember, the frame of a mirror can significantly impact its visual appeal and how well it blends with your overall design. Take your time to explore different frame options and choose one that enhances the beauty of your mirror and complements your interior design.
How to Use a Mirror to Create a Focal Point
Decorative mirrors with elaborate frames or sculptural designs can have just as much impact on your home’s wall art selection as paintings. Larger mirrors are an excellent way to establish the focal point of a room, especially in spaces without mantelpieces, which are common locations for hanging or supporting mirrors. A piece like the Santa Barbara Mirror, with its distinctive silhouette, can effortlessly draw the eye and anchor a scheme with elegance.
Alternatively, try adorning a plain wall with a cluster of smaller mirrors for aesthetic purposes. The result will be striking whether you opt for homogeneity with designs that share the same shape and frame colour, or an eclectic mix of sizes and styles, such as pairing modern silhouettes with antique or antique-style mirrors like the Set of 3 19th Century French Faux Bamboo Wall Mirrors. This approach adds character, depth, and a layered visual interest to your space.
Transform Your Mirror Into a Window
A mirror can make all the difference in a windowless room, such as a bathroom. Opt for a generously sized design to maximise light and create the illusion of a larger space. This is also practical; for instance, you won’t need to lean awkwardly over your sink to catch the right angle when applying makeup. In these situations, frameless or slim-framed mirrors are excellent choices for achieving a seamless look that stretches wall-to-wall.
For darker areas elsewhere in the home, like hallways or enclosed landings, consider a mirror with the outline of a window frame to create the illusion of light spilling through. The Paned Mirror, with its grid-like structure reminiscent of classic windows, is ideal for this purpose — adding architectural charm while brightening the space with reflected light.
Experiment With Symmetry And Shapes
You don’t have to limit yourself to traditional rectangular mirrors just because they’re functional and practical. Instead, consider choosing an oval or round mirror, or explore less common shapes. Browse our extensive selection of standing, tabletop, and wall mirrors, ranging from small and ornate to large and minimalist designs. The Buko Round Mirror, for example, offers a softly curved silhouette that contrasts beautifully with angular furniture, helping to create a sense of flow in a room.
Placement and positioning can be equally creative. Try hanging a vertical mirror horizontally behind a bed instead of a headboard; the effect is both striking and unexpected. Or frame a favourite viewpoint: mirrors reflect both across and along the room, creating harmony when positioned in pairs on either side of a window or doorway.
Don’t forget the practical applications too; a well-placed mirror can transform a simple desk into a chic dressing table, blending style and function seamlessly.
Decorating With Mirrors
By reflecting a side wall, mirrors can create the illusion of width in narrow spaces like hallways or corridors. While plain glass can serve the purpose, choosing an antique-style mirror, like the Catalan Mirror, can add both visual interest and a sense of history to an otherwise simple area.
Arrangement Ideas for Several Mirrors on the Wall
If you’re aiming for decorative impact over strict function, clusters of ornamental mirrors are a wonderful option. These can be convex, concave, or plain — the key is to balance the arrangement. We recommend laying them out on the floor first to experiment with spacing and grouping. Each mirror should have enough breathing room to be appreciated, without looking isolated or lost on the wall.
Incorporating Mirrors Into Small Spaces
Small spaces can often feel cramped and claustrophobic, but with the right use of mirrors, you can create the illusion of a larger and more open area. Here are some tips for incorporating mirrors into small spaces:
- Full-Length Mirrors: Install a full-length mirror on a wall to visually elongate the room and create the illusion of more space. This can be particularly effective in bedrooms or dressing areas. The Tulia Mirror, with its slender silhouette and refined frame, is a perfect candidate for this, offering elegance without overpowering the room.
- Mirrored Furniture: Choose furniture with mirrored surfaces, such as a console table or cabinet. This not only adds functionality but also reflects light and makes the space feel larger.
- Mirrored Wardrobe Doors: Replace traditional wardrobe doors with mirrored ones to make the room appear more spacious. The mirrors will reflect natural light and create a sense of depth.
- Mirrored Tiles: Use mirrored tiles as a splashback or on a feature wall to visually expand the space. The reflective surface will bounce light around the room and create a stunning visual effect.
- Mirrored Accents: Incorporate small mirrored accents, such as trays, picture frames, or decorative objects, to add a touch of glamour and create visual interest in a small space.
By strategically incorporating mirrors into small spaces, you can create a sense of openness and make the room feel larger than it actually is. Experiment with different placements and angles to find the perfect balance that maximises the impact of mirrors in your space.
Creating A Focal Point With A Statement Mirror
A statement mirror can instantly elevate the design of any room and become a striking focal point. Here are some tips for creating a focal point with a statement mirror:
- Size Matters: Choose a large mirror that commands attention and becomes the centrepiece of the room. The size of the mirror should be proportionate to the wall and other furniture in the space. The Santa Barbara Mirror, with its generous scale and refined design, is a perfect example of how size can anchor a space with elegance.
- Unique Shapes: Opt for mirrors with unique shapes, such as round, oval, or irregular. These shapes can add visual interest and create a sense of uniqueness in your space.
- Intricate Frames: Select a mirror with an intricate or decorative frame that complements the overall design of the room. The frame should enhance the visual impact of the mirror and make it stand out. Consider options like the Cornelia Mirror, with its distinctive detailing, to bring subtle drama.
- Strategic Placement: Position the statement mirror in a prominent location, such as above a fireplace, console table, or bed. This will draw attention and create a stunning focal point in the room.
- Reflective Art: Consider placing a statement mirror opposite a piece of art or a beautiful view. The mirror will not only reflect the artwork but also create a sense of depth and amplify its impact.
A statement mirror can add drama, elegance, and personality to your space. Let your creativity shine as you choose a mirror that reflects your unique style and becomes a captivating focal point in your interior design.
Mirrors As Decorative Accents In Different Areas Of The Home
Mirrors are not limited to specific rooms but can be incorporated as decorative accents in various areas of the home. Here are some ideas for using mirrors as decorative accents:
- Entryway: Hang a mirror in the entryway to create a welcoming and inviting space. This will not only provide a last-minute check before leaving the house but also make the area feel larger and brighter. A piece like the Dutch Mirror, with its elegant form, brings charm and light to transitional spaces.
- Staircase: Place mirrors on the wall along a staircase to add a touch of elegance and reflect the natural light from nearby windows. This will create a stunning visual effect and make the staircase appear more spacious.
- Outdoor Spaces: Install mirrors in outdoor areas, such as a patio or garden, to reflect the surrounding greenery and create a sense of depth. The Rope Mirror, with its relaxed style and tactile finish, can add a unique decorative element to garden walls or covered terraces.
- Home Gym: Hang a mirror in your home gym to visually expand the space and create a motivating environment. Mirrors can also be used to check your form and ensure proper exercise technique.
- Home Office: Place a mirror near your home office desk to reflect natural light and create a brighter, more energising workspace. Mirrors can also be used to visually expand the area and make it feel less confined. A clean-lined design like the Buko Rectangular Mirror works beautifully in contemporary workspaces.
By incorporating mirrors as decorative accents in different areas of your home, you can add a touch of elegance, create visual interest, and enhance the overall design of your space.
Conclusion: Reflecting On The Impact Of Mirrors In Interior Design
In conclusion, mirrors stand as indispensable elements in the realm of interior design, wielding a transformative power that extends far beyond their conventional uses. Through careful consideration of design styles, placement strategies, and the myriad types of mirrors available, this guide empowers enthusiasts to harness the full potential of these reflective wonders. Whether seeking to create the illusion of spaciousness, establish captivating focal points, or infuse a touch of personal flair, the versatile mirror emerges as an invaluable ally in crafting visually stunning and harmonious living spaces. Embark on this journey of exploration, and let the transformative magic of mirrors bring a new dimension of elegance and sophistication to every corner of your home.
Frequently Asked Questions: Mirrors in Interior Design
Do you have any further questions about how to best integrate mirrors into your home, or perhaps specific ideas you’d like to explore?