Mirrors can make a huge difference in your home
Mirrors are magnificent. Whether it’s checking the way you look, making a room seem bigger or brightening a whole space, they really are essential in the home.
“More than ever, shoppers are adorning their walls with statement mirrors that bring light and space into their homes,” says Dayna Isom Johnson, trend expert for Etsy (etsy.com) online marketplace.
“Embodying both form and function, statement mirrors allow shoppers to express their creativity,” says Johnson, “while also upgrading their selfie games.”
As Lucy Mather, interiors expert at luxury home and interiors retailer Arighi Bianchi puts it: “Mirrors are an interior designer’s secret weapon, and sometimes it’s easy for homeowners to forget just what an impact a well-placed mirror can have – both from a design and functional perspective.”
“One of the most crucial considerations you need to take into account when making a statement mirror part of your design is what you want it to reflect,” says Mather.
“This could be bringing in more natural light and greenery – in which case, you should hang your mirror opposite or adjacent to a window,” suggests Mather. “Or, you may want to give an added dimension to a design feature in your space.”
For example, she says a mirror hung on the mantelpiece opposite your sofa will reflect the space behind you that you don’t get to see when sat down.
“If you have artwork or a statement wall, then it will reflect it back to you,” observes Mather. “Making it visible, even when you have your back to it.”
Mather says the same rule can be applied for adding texture to a space.
“A mirror which reflects back a piece of rustic furniture, tactile cushions or throw, will create the illusion of added texture, creating interesting spatial illusions and reflecting your design details around the room.
“Meanwhile, placing a mirror in an entertaining space will make your dinner parties feel bigger than they actually are,” suggests Mather.
Not only will a well-placed mirror make your room look bigger, lighter and more interesting, as Mather points out, they’re also pieces of art in their own right: “From large leaning mirrors to small mirrored accessories – consider what role they have to play as part of your design aesthetic.”
Brendon Haxby, co-founder of online luxury homeware retailer, Naken, agrees: “Mirrors are one of the most versatile tools a homeowner has in their arsenal. Not only are they a practical addition to any home, but choose wisely and they make a real style statement too.”
“It’s all about finding the perfect placement,” says Haxby. “Hang wisely and a mirror will not only make a space appear bigger, but it can also shine the spotlight on your favourite furnishings, capturing them from all angles and allowing them centre stage.
“And let’s not forget a well-placed mirror will also help maximise any natural light in the home,” he adds.
For maximum impact, why not consider a feature wall of mirrors? Especially if you’ve collected a few over the years or have some flea market finds gathering dust.
Jenna Choate, co-founder of Interior Fox, says grouping mirrors together creates a feeling of more space and allows the light to bounce around the room. “Using mirrors that vary in size will elevate the scheme and create a point of interest in the room,” says Choate.