Mirrors are not only decorative, they also make rooms feel bigger and brighter by reflecting light and creating the illusion of depth.
As the saying goes ’life is like a mirror’ and the clever use of mirrors in a home can reflect a lot about the lifestyle of the people who live there.
Mirrors come in an endless variety of shapes and sizes. They can be modern or traditional, big or small, hung or placed on a lean against walls for effect.
As a rule of thumb, rooms with high ceilings benefit from vertical mirrors, while horizontal mirrors work better in long rooms.
One of the first things to consider when deciding where to place a mirror is the reflection. Stand where you plan to hang the mirror and consider what will be reflected in it. Mirrors can accentuate works of art or special pieces of furniture that may be placed opposite.
Also, think about where light enters your room. It’s best to position a mirror opposite a window, especially in north facing homes to make the most of the afternoon and evening light.
If you are going to hang a mirror, consider placing it on a slight tilt that way it will reflect more of the room.
Also consider if the mirror is going to serve a practical purpose or will it be merely decorative. If you want to be able to check your lipstick on the way out the door make sure the mirror is hung at eye level.
To securely fasten a mirror to a wall, each hook on the back needs its own hook in the wall. A cable wire hung across a single hook or nail won’t do the job, especially with large, heavy mirrors.
Mirrors can be used throughout your home.
They add a welcoming feel to a foyer or entry hung above a stylish hall table.
An obvious place for a mirror in older homes is above a mantel. Experts advise positioning the mirror 10 to 15 centimetres above the mantel for maximum effect.
An instant hit of glamour can be added to a bathroom or ensuite by a gorgeous mirror. Look beyond the frameless mirror mounted above the basin and consider a frame for visual impact.
Dining rooms are the traditional place for mirrors. Think grand Victorian homes with thick gold frames. A mirror in a sleek, modern frame would work just as well strategically placed over a buffet.
Mirrors can also be arranged in groups for added visual impact and character. Take care to ensure the space between each mirror is even, making it visually pleasing to the eye. Play around with different shapes and sizes, or hang a set of mirrors for visual uniformity. Think about a group of mirrors the same way you would a collection of art work.
The style of frame will depend on your individual aesthetic. A modern home will suit sleek, unadorned frames. A colonial or country homestead style home suits a rustic wooden frame, or a period home a more traditional gilt, decorative frame.
Don’t be afraid to use a large mirror in a small space. Designers often use full length mirrors leaning against a wall in apartments or smaller homes.
