One Good Thing: Using Mirrors in Your Home
It's time for another installment of "One Good Thing!" If you missed the intro to this new series where I talked about mixing throw pillows, head on over here. This time, we're talking mirrors, which are one of the most versatile pieces of decor in my book. They're useful for lots of things, including:
- Brightening a space by bouncing light (natural or artificial)
- Making a room feel larger
- Providing a focal point (much like a piece of art can)
- Adding style and drama
And of course they're practical too for, you know, times when you need to make sure there's nothing in your teeth (am I right?).
I'm a firm believer that you can put a mirror in just about any room in your home. There are a lot of natural places for them like above a dresser in your bedroom or in an entryway, but you can also put one above a fireplace or on a wall above a sofa or bed. They don't always have to be functional - they can be purely decorative too.
Since photos are the best way to demonstrate what I'm talking about, I rounded up a bunch of examples of spaces that use mirrors beautifully. Let's take a look!
Placing a mirror above a console in an entryway is practical and it adds some serious style. I love the unexpected octagonal shape in the photo below - it complements the rectangles found in the table and front door.
This one above the fireplace is a great scale and adds loads of interesting character to the space.
This starburst mirror is purely decorative, and what a fun piece of decor it is!
Sometimes a simple, rectangular mirror is just what you need. This one acts like a window in the room, bounces light and make it feel larger than it is.
I love this leaning floor mirror. It's super functional and makes a major statement in this eclectic bedroom.
Putting a mirror above a nightstand or vanity next to the bed is smart because it both bounces light and gives you a place to sit and put on makeup, fix your hair and do whatever you gotta do!
I couldn't leave these fun bathroom mirrors out - that Moroccan shape is so fun and unexpected.
And lastly, this entryway space is one of my all time favorites. The oversized mirror above a bench makes a statement in the best kind of way.
Now that you've seen some examples, here are a few things to think about when you're deciding on a mirror for a particular space:
SIZE: Think about the mirror's size in proportion to other items around it. Is it the star or is it playing a supporting role to other pieces (e.g. a part of a gallery wall). If a mirror is the only thing on a wall, a good rule of thumb is that bigger is usually better.
FRAME: The possibilities are endless when it comes to frame options! I tend to opt for simple, thin frames in a metallic finish, but there is no shortage of frameless, ornate or decorative options. Combining a simple mirror with a more detailed piece of furniture (or vice versa) is a good way to make sure pieces balance each other out.
FINISH: If you're into metallics, gold and brass are very "in" right now, but silver is classic and won't ever go out of style. Wood, stained or natural, is a great option too, but I would shy away from anything labeled "espresso finish" because it tends to look cheap. When it comes to color, you can't go wrong with black (does that count as a color?) and in certain spaces like a powder room, a bright color can work well. Try painting a thrift store mirror if you'd like to try that look!
Lastly, I'll end today's post with a round-up of my current favorite mirrors from around the web* to give you a head start on your search if you're on the hunt. There are a variety of styles, sizes and finishes - a little something for everyone!
mick natural round wall mirror // art deco wall mirror // black leaning mirror //ponti wall mirror // starburst mirror // parsons floor mirror - wood // vertical oval fynn captain's mirror // violet wall mirror // round brass mirror
*Note: some or all of the links are affiliate links, which means that I may make a small commission off of your purchase (at no cost to you). Thanks for supporting Mix & Match Design Company in this way!
