Try these tips from interior designer Jaime Simpson for making the most of mirrors in your home to reflect, brighten and magnify
By Jaime Simpson
The mirror. It has such a vital place in our everyday lives. We have mirrors in our homes, our workplaces, our cars. They are an incredible tool that allows us to see beyond our field of vision and expand our viewpoint.
Reflections have been significant for thousands of years. Before mirrors, smooth pools of water, stones and metals provided useful reflections for a multitude of purposes. The desire to create and improve a reflective tool grew through the ages.
It progressed from metal to glass to what we now consider a modern mirror, which, in simplified terms, is a layer of silver applied to a clear pane of glass. This type of mirror provides a clear, true-to-life reflection of what it faces.
Which is what makes mirrors a little bit magical. They are beautiful. Mysterious even.
Two mirrors that face each other create an endless string of reflections. Superstitions are attached to breaking mirrors. There are so many fantastical tales of mirrors leading to other worlds—two entities of space and time linked at that one single pane—and it only takes a touch at the precise moment in time to cross through and explore another realm. Oh, how I love a good story!
When we use mirrors in our homes, the function and magic come together. They can show us our own reflection, of course. But they can also they change the feeling of the space they are in.
Mirror can brighten the room. They are works of art. Where and how we use mirrors enhances these qualities and makes them a powerful presence in our surroundings.
Here are a few factors to consider when including mirrors in your spaces.
Shape Is Key
Round or square mirrors are perfect for wall spaces that are balanced in width/height. Oval or vertically oriented rectangular mirrors work well in narrow spaces or areas with high ceilings, or when a taller view is needed. Horizontal rectangles or ovals are best in wider spaces or when it is a statement piece.
Size Matters
When placed as the only item above furniture or a vanity space, a mirror should be at least half as wide as the overall furniture or space so that it has presence. For example, a 60-inch vanity should have a mirror that is 30-inch wide if there is nothing else on the wall.
If a mirror is hung with other pieces like sconces or other artwork, the entire collection of items should stay a few inches inside the edge of the furniture. For example, a mirror hung with two smaller art pieces over a 72-inch sideboard should stay within a 66-inch width for the whole grouping.
Think Placement
Bathrooms
Mirrors are essential in bathrooms; they allow us to see ourselves as we get ready, as we shave, style our hair, put on makeup. Place the bathroom mirror so that everyone using it (no matter what height they are) has a good view. Consider a mirror with built-in lighting for better visibility
Bedrooms
Dressing areas and bedrooms are also great places for mirrors, for similar reasons to the bathroom. Use a full-length mirror here to maximize functionality.
Living Areas
Living areas benefit from mirrors by magnifying the amount of light and maximizing the view. Place a mirror in the dining room so that it enhances the light and highlights the light fixture or other feature in its reflection. Hang a mirror in the living room so that it reflects more of the outdoor view and natural light
Small Spaces
Smaller spaces can be transformed by mirrors because they expand the visual area and make it feel more spacious. In an office space, hang a mirror over the desk or credenza to add visual depth. Place a vertically oriented mirror at the end of a short hallway to make the area feel less closed-in.
Sense of Style
There are so many style options available in mirrors, allowing them to work in any design. Use a larger, more significant frame if the space has large-scale furnishings. Intricate details in the frame add to the visual impact.
Consider a simpler, sleeker frame in a minimalist, clean-lined space; try a frame in an accent color to create interest. In an eclectic design, select a mirror with a contrasting style to the furnishings to add energy to the space. An ornate frame can be a wonderful complement to a streamlined furniture piece.
Décor and Depth
Mirrors elevate and enhance the décor they reflect. They are décor in and of themselves, but they also add depth and texture to the décor around them.
Place candles or tall vases in front of a mirror that hangs over a dresser or mantle to double the effect of the accent pieces Drape holiday décor, like garlands or string lights, across the top of a mirror to create a seasonal vignette.
About the Author: Jaime Simpson is an interior designer and the owner of Creative and Curated, LLC, based in Norfolk. Learn more at creativendcurated.com.
Photos by Steven Salazar, Jaime Simpson or Getty Images
Jaime Simpson
Jaime Simpson is an interior designer and the owner of Creative and Curated, LLC. She has been in the industry for 20 years, loves all things design, creates mixed media artwork and nature photography, teaches and choreographs ballet.Learn more at creativeandcurated.com.
