12 Clever Ways To Use Mirrors

12 Clever Ways To Use Mirrors

A mirror is an interior designer’s secret weapon – versatile and decorative, it can quite literally transform a space. But getting it right requires a little guidance. Here’s what the experts recommend…

Mirrors can help open up a small space, and make it feel larger. They reflect the light and the surroundings, the colours, greenery or finishes, and add another layer of texture to the scheme. – Alison Henry, interior designer  

Installing a mirror in an alcove can make a room feel wider. It bounces light around the room and helps create depth – it’s especially effective in alcoves in terraced houses. – Laura Stephens, interior designer

Mirrors are a cunning way to deceive the eye. They can be used to enhance something or deflect attention away from it. Awkward spaces, such as rooms with a sloping ceiling or a gap too small to fit a piece of furniture, can easily be repurposed with a mirror. – Sebnem Barker, head of trade and interior design at OKA

The shape of a mirror can define the identity of space, especially in bathrooms. Choose a mirror with a more organic shape to balance out any strong, linear elements such as the countertop. Incorporating a warm, natural material into the frame, such as raffia, timber or bone, quietly offsets any hard finishes and softens the overall feel. –– Clara Ewart, senior interior designer at Kitesgrove

You can put something in front of a mirror to make it more of a feature, for example a vase of flowers, or a sculpture where you can then see it from all sides. Candles or candlestick lamps also add reflections, and movement of light. – Alison

Use antique glass to make the surface softer. Remember, a mirror doesn’t have to just be practical – it can also help create an atmosphere and add interest throughout. – Laura  

A mirror can be hung in place of artwork. Not only is it cheaper, it also adds extra drama. – Laura 

An oversized mirror can act as an interesting focal point, while also reflecting the maximum amount of light back in to a room. If hung correctly, it can help reflect the light emitted from ceiling fixtures, as well as creating a show-stopping feature. – Laura 

Mirrors are a brilliant way to boost the atmosphere in your entertaining space. Placing a large mirror against a wall can even create the illusion that there are more guests at a gathering. – Sebnem

Consider using a group of mirrors as decoration to breathe new life into a plain wall. They could all be the same shape, have the same frame or be an eclectic mix. – Sebnem

Outdoor mirrors can transform a terrace, or courtyard, not only in a decorative way, but also so it enhances the presence of natural light and the feeling of space. The impact will likely be felt within any adjacent internal spaces, as the outdoor mirror reflects light back into these areas. – Clara 

Placing a sofa or bench under a mirror allows you to introduce decorative cushions and throws in natural, tactile fabrics which in turn create a soft, layered look. – Clara 

 

Inspired? Here’s are some of our favourite styles…

OVAL 

CHRIS SNOOK, LAURA STEPHENS

Mirrors are a cunning way to deceive the eye. They can be used to enhance something or deflect attention away from it.

RECTANGULAR

Olivia Emery Interiors

A mirror doesn’t have to just be practical – it helps create an atmosphere and add interest throughout.

ROUND

Gunter & Co

A mirror can be hung in place of artwork. Not only is it cheaper, it also adds extra drama

SQUARE

Decorum Est London

Put something in front of a mirror to make it more of a feature – a vase of flowers or a sculpture where you can then see it from all sides.

UNUSUAL

CHRIS SNOOK, LAURA STEPHENS

Choose a mirror with a more organic shape to balance out any strong, linear elements such as the countertop.

INSPIRATION CREDITS: ChrisSnookPhotography.co.ukGunterAndCo.comLauraStephens.co.ukOliviaEmery.com
DISCLAIMER: We endeavour to always credit the correct original source of every image we use. If you think a credit may be incorrect, please contact us at info@sheerluxe.com.

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