Mirrors have always been a symbol of reflection and glamour. No longer just for the bathroom, the mirror has matured into a fundamental feature of interior design. But how else does a mirror transform a room? Beyond their original purpose, there are a number of ways that mirrors can benefit your home —they reflect light, they open up spaces, and they just make rooms look better in general. And because mirrors can come in a variety of shapes and styles, you can enjoy the advantages of a mirror and still express your individual style and taste.
Mirrors can also be a handy element in feng shui arrangements. Mirrors represent the element of water, and they can help balance a room or accentuate the purpose of a room. Hang a mirror over the fireplace to soften the fire element of the hearth or place a mirror in your entryway to help your guests feel more welcome – this is but two ways to utilise this great item.
Here are some other style ideas to help you with your mirror décor.
Create a focal point
Mirrors make great focal points. It’s why they are so often placed above mantels and dining room buffets. Hang sconces on either side and you’ve got the perfect focal point in any room. If you want to go even bigger, a wall covered entirely in mirrors creates a terrific feature.
Think big
Don’t be afraid to use a large mirror in a small space. Mirrors create the illusion of depth and space so they can really help make a small room feel bigger. A full-length mirror leaning against the wall is a great decorative element to use in a tiny room. Mirrors are also great for narrow spots such as hallways.
Consider the reflection
Before you hang a mirror take into account what is across from it. While we often hang mirrors based on available wall space, it’s important to think about what will be reflected in it. When hung opposite an important architectural element, painting, or piece of furniture it will give that item even more importance—as it will if hung across form something unattractive. Also, whenever possible hang a mirror across from a window. It will significantly increase the amount of light in the room.
Use several mirrors at once
Don’t be afraid to create a gallery wall with mirrors. Like with any photo wall, treat them as one unit when deciding on placement. That said, a mirrored gallery wall will look best in a room with little clutter. All of the frames can be visually busy—add that to a small, cluttered room and it could be too much.
Don’t forget about style
Mirrors can be modern, traditional, edgy, classic—pretty much anything. It all depends on the frame. Consider what effect you want to create when choosing a mirror in a frame. There’s also the mirror itself, smoky glass and antique mirrors with imperfections can be very moody and greatly contribute to the look of a space.