Mirrors are often thought of as functional items that help us check our appearance and make sure we always look our best, but they can also be used as clever design elements to add impact and beauty to your home.
In fact, mirrors are a must-have for interior designers. When placed correctly, they can instantly create the illusion of depth and space, especially in rooms lacking natural light. They're also great for making small rooms look larger and brightening up dark rooms. Large mirrors are also great at reflecting light, making a small space feel instantly more open and airy.
Plus, mirrors add charm to your home décor, so if you're stumped for inspiration, here are 7 clever ways to use mirrors to decorate your home and add a wow factor.
Or, according to interiors experts, here are five easy ways to make your home feel warmer.
1. Extra-large/floor-length mirror
Large mirror in bedroom (Image credit: Shutterstock)
Nothing is more effective than an oversized mirror to visually expand and double the space. Experts recommend not hanging a full-length mirror, but leaning it against a wall or against the back of a piece of furniture, which will make it look more stylish and give it more depth.
Ideally, you'd place your mirror opposite a window to reflect natural light, or behind a pendant light to maximise the amount of light it can receive. Also, it's best to stick to simple frames, as chunky, decorative frames can defeat the purpose of making a space look larger.
2. Mirrored walls
Mirrored wall in living room (Image credit: Shutterstock)
For example, if you have a small space or a dark, cramped hallway, opt for a mirrored wall. This will again give the illusion of more space to move around in and make it feel more airy. It can also make low ceilings appear taller, making the space look less cluttered.
Wall mirrors are great for reflecting light, creating the illusion of more space and instantly making a room feel more open and airy. More importantly, they transform a blank wall into a stylish, contemporary space. Mirrored walls usually work well in small bathrooms, and experts recommend having the entire wall, or at least a large part of it, covered in mirrors.
Or, if you don't want to go all-glass, you could opt for a Plexiglas acrylic mirror. Bendable acrylic wall mirrors, like this Shatterproof Wall Mirror ($29, Amazon), are designed to be safer and less likely to accidentally break or damage your home, especially if you have small children or pets running around.
3. Above the fireplace
Mirror above a table (Image credit: Shutterstock)
Another popular design tip is to hang a large mirror horizontally over your mantel or fireplace, but make sure to place it at the right height and not too high above the fireplace, as this will only reflect the ceiling or wall instead of serving any functional purpose.
A general rule of thumb is to leave 4 to 6 inches of space between the mantelpiece and the bottom of the mirror. This also applies to the space between the top of the mirror and the ceiling, but this will vary depending on your ceiling height. Alternatively, if you don't have a fireplace, you could hang the mirror over a table or dining area.
Experts say that hanging a mirror over your fireplace is a positive feng shui practice that promotes positive chi energy and creates a balanced space. Once you've hung your mirror, you can also surround it with scented candles, vases of flowers, and other striking decor items around the mantelpiece.
4. Geometric/Statement Mirrors
Gold statement mirror (Image credit: Shutterstock)
Mirrors don't necessarily have to be traditional rectangular or square. When decorating with mirrors, choose geometric or striking designs.
In fact, geometric mirrors serve a dual purpose: they're functional and they work great as an accent or focal point on a wall. They come in a variety of designs, sizes, and styles, including sets of three and sets of five.
Likewise, a striking mirror like this Stonebriar Round Decorative Antique Gold 23-Inch Geometric Metal Sunburst Hanging Mirror ($27, Amazon) can add personality and style to a room.
5. Mirrored Gallery Wall
Mirrored Gallery Wall (Image credit: Shutterstock)
If you have a few mirrors you love (and can't decide which one), you could create a mirror gallery wall. Essentially, a mirror gallery wall is a carefully selected arrangement of accent mirrors that add visual interest to a room. And if you don't want a traditional art gallery, mirrors can instantly liven up the boring, blank walls of your home.
Before hanging all your mirrors, lay them all out on the floor and plan the layout in the positions you want them to be. Measure the wall space and make sure all your mirrors have the appropriate hanging fixtures. Then hang the center mirror before moving on to the others around it.
These are versatile, so you can choose from a variety of themes. From travel and coastal themes to gorgeous jewel-toned mirror walls, you can change them up to suit your mood. In the end, you'll have a unique and striking mirror gallery wall that's sure to impress your guests.
6. Mirrored doors
Mirrored door (Image credit: Shutterstock)
If you don't want to have oversized mirrors everywhere, why not choose mirrored doors? Whether they are closets or sliding doors, mirrored doors have the effect of making the space look larger and are suitable for bedroom and bathroom decor. All you need to do is replace your wooden closets with ones with mirrored doors or handy storage shelves with sliding doors.
Plus, mirrored doors are great for making your furniture blend seamlessly together, especially if you have a small space.
7. Reflective furniture
Mirrored dresser (Image courtesy of Amazon)
Similarly, if you can't afford an oversized mirror or doors, why not invest in some mirrored furniture? Whether it's a closet, cabinet, or mirrored dresser like this VINGLI Mirrored Dresser ($189, Amazon), these items will instantly reflect light and add curb appeal to your room.
In fact, mirrored tables are great for reflecting light in a dark room – heavy, bulky wooden tables usually take up too much space and make the room look dark. You can also place glass or reflective vases and accessories around the room to reflect natural light.
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