Decorating with Mirrors

To quote from Snow White, "Magic mirror on the wall who is the fairest one of all"? Every home has mirrors, typically in the bathroom and powder room. We use them every day for personal grooming, whether shaving, combing hair or putting on makeup. Besides the obvious functional aspect, mirrors can be used for decorative purposes as well. They come in many shapes and sizes and in a multitude of frames. No matter where you put one, mirrors are an easy way to reflect light, make a space look bigger, and maximize a room's style and decor. Here are some ideas and tips on how to use mirrors in your home to add interest and dimension to your decor.

Mirrors in the Bathroom/Powder Room

Bathroom/Powder Room

The powder room is usually the smallest room in the house that, more often than not, is windowless. The biggest impact design move you can make in such a small space is to add a really big mirror. Hang an extra-large mirror in a small powder room to double its size. It's a classic decorating trick to create instant, if not real, square footage. Not only will the room appear larger, but the space will seem brighter too. Using a mirror in a room without windows will give the illusion of one and it can be moved around and placed as you like. Change out a bland, builder grade mirror over the sink with one that has a decorative frame to add visual interest. Transform your master bathroom by adding two framed mirrors over each sink. Pick a frame to complement the style of your decor. We have over 40 different frames to choose from, in various colors and finishes, to give you a custom look.

Mirrors in the Foyer

Foyer

Mirrors are a great place for entryways or foyers that lack natural light. Having a mirror in an entryway/foyer will bring light and depth into the space and allows one to do a final check before leaving the house. Place a large decorative mirror over a console table for instant effect. It will visually expand the space and make it seem bigger and brighter. The staircase is often overlooked when decorating a home. Add a series of mirrors that are of different sizes, but with a common frame, along the stair wall for a unique and eye-catching look.

Mirrors in the Bedroom

Bedroom

Mirrors can add light and bring energy to a bedroom. Use a large mirror to create the look of more space and to add depth to the room. A floor-to-ceiling mirror can be a useful accent to a bedroom wall, especially when it comes to dressing. Lean a large mirror against one bedroom wall. The reflection will make the entire room look and feel larger. Try using a mirror in unexpected places, like behind your nightstand, for a look that adds interest. Place a mirror opposite a window in the bedroom to reflect the outdoors and to make the most of natural light. Create your own vanity table by placing a mirror with a fancy decorative frame on a dresser or table.

Mirrors in the Living Room

Living Room

Mirrors can add an extra decorative touch to a living room or dining room. They are a good alternative to art and should complement other pieces in your home. The mirror itself becomes the artwork. Well-placed mirrors with stylish frames can enhance a room's decor. A bold and gorgeous mirror can be a focal point in a room. In the dining room, add a large horizontal mirror over a buffet table to add more visual dimension to the space and help focus the eye. Add a decorative mirror above a mantel instead of a piece of art. Cover a fireplace with a framed mirror, during the months that it is not in use, and place candles in front of the mirror. When lit, they will reflect the light to create a warm, romantic and relaxing atmosphere. Hang multiple mirrors on the same wall, grouping them in a visually-pleasing way, similar to art pieces. Use the same frame to create a unifying arrangement that naturally looks like they belong together. Alternatively, randomly group mirrors of various shapes and sizes, with different frames, for a collector's look.