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.
