Mirrors can be used to enhance almost any space. As well as being a practical part of everyday life, they are also an important style feature to include when decorating. However, decorating with mirrors must be done right, and there are a few rules you should follow to maximise the impact mirrors will have in your space.
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Do: use mirrors in small rooms
Mirrors in small rooms can create the illusion of a much larger space. Don’t be afraid to go big and use large mirrors in small spaces, floor standing mirrors can work particularly well in small bedrooms, giving depth to the room.
Do: use mirrors in hallways
Hallways can often be neglected when it comes to interior design, and a great way to bring them to life is by using mirrors. A mirror will reflect the light and visually open up the area (which is great for narrow hallways).
Image credit: Taran Wilkhu
Do: use mirrors as a focal point
Mirrors work particularly well as a focal point in most rooms, inviting life and energy into the space. Above a fireplace is a great place to hang a beautiful mirror, creating a central focal point for the room. Mirrors also work very well as a focal point in entrance halls, welcoming guests into the home.
Do: think about what the mirror is reflecting
When you are choosing where to place your mirror, think about what you will be seeing in the reflection. Ensure that your mirror will reflect some natural light to help brighten your space, and make sure it’s not facing an area that usually gets cluttered, you don’t want to be looking at twice the clutter now, do you?
Image credit: Danielle Moss
Don’t: place your mirrors too high
Like with artwork, wall mirrors should be hung at eye level. It can be tempting to place mirrors at a higher level when they are being hung over a fireplace, but remember, if they’re too high all you will see is a reflection of the ceiling, so try to keep at least part of the mirror at eye level if you can.
Don’t: use mirrors in the kitchen
The kitchen is perhaps one of the only places in the home where there is no need for a mirror. Mirrors placed in kitchens will get dirty very quickly and will need to be cleaned frequently.
Don’t: use too many mirrors
When you start to use too many mirrors, it can start to look confused and cluttered. There’s no need to hang a mirror just to fill empty wall space - if you don’t want to leave a wall empty, but the area isn’t quite right for a mirror, then consider hanging a beautiful artwork instead.
Don’t: use mirrors on the ceiling
There’s no need to hang mirrors on the ceiling in a residential setting. Apart from making a space feel cluttered, it’s also dangerous and could result in a fatal injury if it became damaged or fell. If you do decide to hang a mirror overhead, it should only ever be installed by a professional.
Mirrors offer a perfect combination of style and function. Have you ever decorated with mirrors? Do you have any advice on decorating with this item?
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