How to decorate with mirrors

Posted by Diane on Thursday, April 8, 2010 · Leave a Comment

Mirrors can add wonderful light and reflection to a room or they can make a space seem confusing and unnerving. While you hear a lot about decorating with mirrors, there are some tricks of the trade to keep in mind before you start hanging mirrors everywhere.

Number one rule when decorating with mirrors–be sure the mirror reflects something attractive! You do not want to place a mirror on a wall opposite a window that looks at the side of your neighbor’s garage, for example. Nor do you want to reflect the ceiling or a blank wall in your home. Hang the mirror so it reflects a beautiful painting, a pretty view or an adjoining room.
Mirroring an entire wall can make a room seem larger and brighter but it can also be confusing. You want to avoid a mirrored wall in areas that might make walking confusing such as a hallway or entryway.
While many think it is important to match your mirror to your furniture style, I say try something different. Hang a vintage venetian glass mirror above a distressed chest of drawers or try a sleek and modern black lacquer mirror above a traditional sofa.
Grouping mirrors of different sizes and shapes is an affordable way to add interest to a wall without committing to pricey art or a specific color.
Use mirrors in unusual places. How about a mirrored backsplash in the kitchen? Remove the panel in an interior or cabinet door and add a mirror. Place small mirrors on the back of a bookshelf or hutch to reflect pretty items and add some light to a dark space.
A small mirrored tray on top of a coffee or dining room table will result in some light reflection on top of what is usually a dark and flat surface.
Mirrored furniture is popular and can add some sparkle to a room. Nightstands, coffee and console tables and small chests are all available to brighten up a dark space.

I bet you can find several ways to use the sparkle and shine that mirrors provide in your own home.

Share and Enjoy: