A decorative mirror is the finishing touch your room needs. Mirrors are a functional and stylish piece of decor that enhances the ambiance of your home. Also referred to as an accent mirror, this reflective design staple can be found in an array of shapes, sizes, and styles. Check out our guide below to learn more.
A decorative mirror does more than serve as a moment for vanity. Explore the following uses to bring your rooms to life.
Visually Expand a Space
If you’re decorating a small room, a mirror is a clever way to give the illusion your space is larger than it is. Don’t be afraid to use multiple mirrors as part of your design scape to enhance your square footage.
Distribute Natural Light
If you’re looking to maximize the natural light from windows, a properly placed mirror helps reflect the sunshine and brighten the room.
Artfully Accessorize
A mirror plays the same role in interior decor as a piece of art or an organizational tool would. When placed behind other decorative elements, such as a bouquet, a mirror can also reflect your favorite design elements in a space.
Where To Place a Decorative Mirror
There are endless ways to incorporate decorative mirrors into your design aesthetic. Consider the options below for ideas.
Entryway or Hallway
It’s common to include a mirror in an entryway. Mirrors add light and character to an organizational-centric space. It’s also helpful to have that quick glance on the way out the door.
Excess white space in hallways and foyers can be thoughtfully eliminated with a constellation of mirror installments.
Bedroom
Tall standing mirrors or mounted mirrors expand the perceived size of a room while giving you a head-to-toe view of yourself before you leave the house. Consider placing a full-length mirror next to a vertical dresser, armoire, or in the corner of the room to catch more light.
Placing a mirror above a dresser can serve as multifunctional use of wall space while giving you the ability to use the dressing area like a vanity.
Living Room
A large mounted mirror placed on the wall behind the sofa is the primary statement piece of the room. A small mirror incorporated into a gallery wall with other artistic expressions acts as an accent piece.
Place a large statement mirror in the center of the room to eliminate your television from being the focal point. Added accessories like shelving or plants can be a nice way to round out this digital-free niche.
Dining Room
A mirror brings a dramatic element to your dining experience and reflects the natural light in the room. An ornate standing mirror makes a show-stopping statement, while a mounted mirror accentuates a compact dining nook or serves as a conversation starter above a dining room table.
Styling note: Mounted mirrors should be placed at standing height to avoid reflections when seated at the table. Additionally, avoid placing a mirror facing a window to eliminate daytime glare.
Bathroom
Swapping out a standard bathroom mirror with one that incorporates unique color or finish makes a room feel modern and refreshed.
Types of Mirrors
Shape
The shape of an accent mirror adds subtle nuances to a room.
- Square or Rectangle:
Square or rectangular mirrors are timeless and versatile. They can be used in small or oversized and add a sharp geometric design.
- Long & Horizontal:
Long, horizontal mirrors accentuate the width of a room by drawing the gaze from side to side.
- Tall & Vertical:
Tall, vertical mirrors enhance the height of a room by drawing the eye from top to bottom.
- Round:
A round mirror is a classic outline and adds a soft contrast to angular furniture or walls.
- Irregular Shape:
Irregularly shaped mirrors add a modern or eclectic touch to composed rooms in the home.
Size
It’s important to find a mirror with a size that is proportionate to your space without being overpowering or overlooked.
- Standalone small mirrors on large walls can look out of place. Consider grouping small mirrors together, or nestle them within a gallery wall.
- Oversized mirrors are used as the primary focal point or blend into the wall. Framing a large mirror visually instructs the eye to see this piece as a standalone accent, while frameless mirrors subtly enhance backdrops.
Style
You may be seeking a mirror that can integrate with existing decor or add a pop of unexpected character.
- Traditional spaces typically employ the use of ornate metal, carved, or gilt-framed mirrors.
- Modern spaces are suited for minimalistic clean, slim lines
- Distressed wood treatments and alternatively shaped frames are used as accents in themed rooms or creative spaces.