5 Tips for Decorating with Mirrors

by Expert Contributors David Gura & Lew Gura, Owners of Bryn Mawr Glass

Mirrors are a great decorating tool because they reflect light, open up spaces and they just make rooms look better overall. There are many designs today that offer function and add style. Here are five tips on how to decorate with mirrors.

1. Consider the Reflection

It’s important to look at what will be across from a mirror after you hang it. Instead of hanging a mirror based on your available wall space, take into consideration what will be reflected in it. Hanging it opposite an important piece of furniture or artwork will make that item stand out by bringing out that object’s pattern, shape and color. Also, hanging a mirror across from a window will increase the amount of light in the room.

2. Placement Matters

In addition to placing a mirror across from something visually appealing, always make sure you hang it at the appropriate height. Mirror placement doesn’t have to be at eye level like a piece of art. If it’s too high, the room may feel disconnected. Lowering the mirror will make the space feel more intimate. Its placement will be based on what you want reflected, so higher or lower than eye level often works better.

3. Size Is Important

Large mirrors work well even in small spaces. They create the illusion of depth and space; they can make a small room seem larger. 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.

4. Choose a Focal Point

Mirrors make great focal points, especially above mantels and dining room buffets. A custom frame that matches the style of the mantle itself can make it more cohesive. Gallery walls covered entirely in mirrors can also create a focal point. Similar to a photo wall, treat the mirrors as one unit when deciding on placement. Because multiple frames can be visually busy, a gallery wall is best in an uncluttered larger space.

5. Style

Depending on what type of frame you choose, mirrors can be modern or traditional. An antique mirror will have a totally different effect on a room than a simple wood frame will. You can also use custom-cut mirrors to create modern art on a blank wall. For example, have a glass company cut a series of uniform blocks for you to hang in a unique pattern. Try introducing other shapes to your mirror wall art such as a round mirror, which has a calming, eye-catching shape. They also provide balance if a room is full of other geometric elements.

Now you can get creative in how you decorate with mirrors. Whether it’s antique, contemporary or a custom-cut mirror and frame, you can enhance the style of any room in your home.

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