A mirror is a decorator’s secret weapon.
Far from simply being a practical object in which to check our looks, a beautiful mirror can be used to amplify light, add drama, create interesting reflections and frame views. It’s astounding how the addition of a mirror can transform the space, resolving any interiors dilemma in an instant. Think beyond the bathroom and take a look at the top 6 design tips for using mirrors in the home.
1. How to use mirrors to brighten a room To let the light in, simply place a mirror opposite or next to a window to increase the amount of natural light cast into the room. A mirror will harness any daylight possible (no matter how gloomy the sky is outside) so the bigger the mirror, the brighter the space.
Mirrors effectively double up your light sources. If you’re challenged with decorating the wall or space, place your mirrors near a lamp or window.
The Crushed Diamond Mirror is the perfect piece for a bedroom and will make the space feel lighter and more open, especially when placed above a mirrored chest of drawers.
2. Use mirrors to enhance a room Mirrors are a cunning way to deceive the eye. They can be used to enhance something or deflect attention away from it. Awkward spaces, such as rooms with a sloping ceiling or a gap too small to fit a piece of furniture, can be repurposed with a mirror.
Did you know that mirrors are a brilliant way to boost the atmosphere in your entertaining space? Placing a large mirror against a wall can create the illusion that there are more guests at a gathering.
3. When to make a mirror your focal point In rooms where there isn’t a fireplace or mantelpiece to position your furniture around, a mirror is a great tool for dictating the centre of the room. And in homes where there does happen to be a fireplace, it serves to exaggerate the impact of the mirror’s presence.
In fact, a mirror with an sparkling crystal or crushed diamond works just as well as a painting when it comes to choosing decorative art for your home.
4. Make your mirror a window For windowless rooms, the addition of a mirror makes it feel much brighter and more spacious.
A well-positioned mirror can make a smaller room look more expansive and will play off light emitted from the natural windows in a larger room.
5. How to use mirrors to illuminate dark corners Maximise the amount of light in a space by placing a mirror behind a switched-on lamp, or pair with mirrored furniture to reflect all sources of light (both natural and artificial) and brighten up your scheme in turn.
As you can see, the crystal mirror is ideal for adding a pocket of light to a dark corner.
6. Use mirrors to double your space Adding a mirror will double the space in an instant. Small spaces benefit from introducing a mirror: transform a storage cupboard into a small work area or use a slim pier mirror make a narrow hallway appear much longer.
Using mirrors to double space When it comes to updating your interiors, place a mirror on your largest wall to reflect as much light as possible back into the room.