Decorating with Mirrors: Expert Guide for Your Interior

Mirror, mirror on the wall, what’s the fairest design aesthetic of all? (Hint: it includes mirrors!)

Mirrors aren’t just handy for applying eyeliner and filming a fit check. Mirrors can also be pivotal elements in interior design, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal. From statement floor mirrors to above-the-mantel décor, mirrors can bring your space to life and help you define your personal aesthetic.

If you’re not sure how to use mirrors in your décor, don’t fret! This expert guide dives deep into the art of decorating with mirrors, showcasing how these versatile pieces can enhance or completely transform your interior spaces.

Why Has the Mirror Become an Essential Item in Interiors?

The evolution of mirrors in interior design is a testament to their versatility and impact. While initially valued for their practicality (think bathrooms and closet varieties), mirrors have become indispensable for both their functional and decorative roles.

Functionally, mirrors are a necessity in everyday life – from getting dressed to the final check before leaving the house. Decoratively, they are transformative, capable of altering a room's ambiance by amplifying light, enlarging spaces and serving as dynamic decorative elements. The unique ability of mirrors to blend into any design aesthetic while enhancing the space's functionality makes them a favorite among interior designers and homeowners alike.

Considerations When Decorating with Mirrors

 

Source: KOUBOO

So just how do you choose the right mirror for – or its placement within – your space? The right mirror – placed in the right spot – will not only complement, but ultimately elevate the chosen space. If you’ve ever thought of mirrors as simple adornments or décor accessories, start thinking of them in a new light; they are dynamic elements that can dramatically reshape the perception of a room.

Purpose and Location of a Mirror

Understanding the mirror's purpose and intended location is crucial. For instance, bathroom mirrors prioritize functionality with an emphasis on clear visibility and adequate lighting. Conversely, mirrors in living rooms or entryways might serve more as statement pieces, creating visual interest or the illusion of space. The placement of a mirror should be strategic, considering both its practical purpose and the potential it has to reflect – and thereby emphasize – certain aspects of the room, be it natural light, a stunning view or an art piece.

Size of the Mirror

The size of a mirror is pivotal in defining its impact. Large mirrors can act as focal points, making a bold statement when you walk into a room. Additionally, a large mirror can make smaller rooms appear more spacious and airy.

Smaller mirrors, on the other hand, can be used as subtle accents when hung by themselves, or can add intrigue and complexity to a wall when grouped together to create a gallery effect. The key lies in finding a balance that complements both the scale of the room and its existing decor, ensuring that the mirror enhances rather than overwhelms the space.

Shape of the Mirror

The shape of a mirror can significantly influence the room's aesthetic. Traditional rectangular or square mirrors contribute to a sense of order and symmetry, ideal for spaces that embrace formality and structure. Round or oval mirrors, with their soft, curved lines, impart a more relaxed and organic feel, perfect for spaces that aim for a casual, fluid ambiance. The choice of shape should harmonize with the room's existing lines and design elements, creating a cohesive look that enhances the overall aesthetic.

Material of the Mirror

A mirror might just be a mirror, but when framed thoughtfully, a mirror can be art. With that in mind, the material used on the frame of your mirror will help you further define the space’s design aesthetic. Wood frames add warmth and rustic charm, while metal frames can introduce sleekness and modernity. A gilded frame might add a formal, elegant vibe, while frameless mirrors offer a minimalist appeal.

In environments like bathrooms, where humidity is a factor, the material's durability against moisture is a critical consideration. Whatever you choose, the mirror's material should not only be practical and durable, but also complement the room's style and color palette.

Pattern of the Mirror

The color and pattern of a mirror frame can either blend with the existing decor or serve as a striking contrast. A mirror with a brightly colored or intricately patterned frame can become a room's centerpiece, while a more subdued, neutral-framed mirror can subtly enhance the overall aesthetic.

When selecting a mirror, consider the existing color scheme and decorative style of the room, ensuring that the mirror either seamlessly integrates or thoughtfully contrasts with its surroundings. For example, an intricately carved wood mirror might be the perfect touch of traditional formality in an otherwise contemporary space.

7 Mirror Tips and Tricks

Whether you’re a novice or seasoned expert in home design, there are a few tips and tricks we recommend for anyone looking to decorate with mirrors.

Source: KOUBOO

Mirrors Can Make Small Spaces Look Bigger

Source: Style by Emily Henderson

Mirrors are a designer's secret weapon in making small spaces feel larger and more open. By reflecting light and views, mirrors create an illusion of depth, effectively doubling the perceived space of a room. For maximum effect, position large mirrors on walls opposite windows or in narrow hallways to visually expand these areas.

Place Mirrors Strategically So They Reflect Light Where You Want It

Source: The Spruce 

Strategically placing mirrors can enhance a room's natural lighting. Positioning a mirror opposite or adjacent to a window can dramatically increase the amount of natural light in the space. However, be mindful of direct sunlight, which can create harsh glares. The key is to angle mirrors to reflect light softly and evenly throughout the room, creating a bright, welcoming atmosphere.

Use Mirrors to Balance Asymmetrical Spaces

Source: Michael Helwig Interiors

Mirrors can be a clever solution to counterbalance asymmetrical or irregularly shaped rooms. By placing mirrors on certain walls, you can visually alter the room's proportions, creating a sense of balance and symmetry. This strategy can be particularly effective in older homes with unique architectural features or in rooms with unevenly distributed furniture.

Use Mirrors to Reflect Art or Decorative Elements of the Space

Source: Eclectic Twist

Mirrors can serve as a canvas, reflecting and emphasizing the beauty of art pieces or other decorative elements in a room. Positioning a mirror to capture the reflection of a striking painting, a unique sculpture or an elegantly arranged shelf can double the visual impact of these features, adding depth and interest to the space.

Add a Focal Point to the Room

Source: My Domaine

A well-chosen mirror can serve as an impressive focal point in a room, drawing attention and adding a touch of elegance. Select a mirror with an eye-catching frame or a unique shape to create a central point of interest that anchors the room's design. Statement mirrors might top a fireplace mantel, stand alone on the floor or be hung above a table or sofa.

Create a Gallery Wall with Mirrors

Create a dynamic gallery wall by combining various sizes and styles of mirrors. This approach not only adds visual interest but also allows for creativity in arranging the mirrors to reflect different parts of the room, constructing a unique and engaging display.

Enhance Room Ambiance with Mirrored Furniture

Source: Homes and Gardens

Beyond wall-mounted mirrors, incorporating mirrored furniture is a sophisticated way to enhance a room's ambiance. Pieces like mirrored coffee tables, dressers or sideboards add a touch of glamour and can brighten up any space, reflecting light and color from around the room and contributing to a dynamic and vibrant atmosphere.

Mirrors, with their multifaceted utility and aesthetic appeal, are powerful tools in the realm of interior design! Whether used to amplify light, create the illusion of space or serve as decorative focal points, mirrors offer endless possibilities to enhance the beauty of your home. Explore the Kouboo mirror collection to find the perfect mirror that reflects your style and elevates your interior.