Mirrors are a secret weapon when it comes to transforming a room—they can make spaces feel bigger, add light, and act as statement pieces. But to truly get the most out of them, you have to learn how to place and style mirrors correctly.
Here’s how you can make the most out of mirrors in your home.
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1. Reflect light and brighten up
Mirrors are a go-to for bouncing light around a room, making smaller or darker spaces feel brighter and more open. If you want to maximise natural light, place a mirror directly opposite or adjacent to a window. This helps capture the light and reflect it back into the room, creating a brighter and airier feel.
Tip: If your room doesn’t get much sunlight, consider placing a mirror near a light source, like a floor lamp or chandelier, to enhance the illumination.
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2. Create the illusion of space
Want to make a small room feel bigger? Use mirrors to create the illusion of space. A large, strategically placed mirror can make a narrow hallway, small bathroom, or cosy living room feel more expansive. Full-length mirrors or oversized pieces leaning against the wall can elongate the visual flow of a room, giving it an open and airy vibe.
In a tight hallway, hang mirrors along the walls to visually widen the space.
3. Make a statement with bold frames
Mirrors aren’t just functional—they can be stylish statement pieces, too. Choosing mirrors with bold, unique frames can add a touch of personality and elevate your decor. Whether you go for something ornate, modern, or even vintage, framed mirrors can become the focal point of a room.
Use a framed mirror above a console table or mantlepiece to draw the eye upward and anchor your space.
4. Mind the height
The placement height of your mirror can change how it interacts with the room. A common mistake is hanging mirrors too high. Generally, mirrors should be hung at eye level, which is about 150 cm from the ground, depending on the height of the people in your home.
In dining rooms or living rooms, hanging mirrors slightly lower can help reflect seating areas, which adds warmth and intimacy.
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5. Layer your mirrors for visual interest
Layering multiple mirrors in different sizes and shapes can add depth and texture to a wall, making your decor feel more dynamic. Try mixing round and rectangular mirrors or combining smaller mirrors into a gallery wall. This is an especially stylish way to fill a large, empty space.
Keep things balanced by sticking to one unifying element—like matching frames or a consistent colour scheme—so the display doesn’t feel chaotic.
6. Mirrors in the entryway
The entryway is the first thing people see when they walk into your home, and a mirror can add an element of elegance and functionality. A large mirror in the entry reflects light and offers a quick check before heading out the door. Pair it with a console table and a few decor accents for a stylish vignette.
Round mirrors work particularly well in entryways, softening the sharp lines of doors and corners.
7. Don’t forget about the bathroom
In bathrooms, mirrors are essential, but why settle for basic when you can make it stylish? A statement mirror above the vanity or a round mirror in a powder room can add a modern touch to your space. Consider backlit mirrors for a chic and functional upgrade.
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8. Think about what you’re reflecting
One of the most important things to consider when placing a mirror is what will be reflected in it. You don’t want a mirror reflecting clutter, an unattractive view, or a blank space. Instead, position your mirrors to reflect art, greenery, or beautiful architectural details.
In bedrooms, be careful not to place mirrors directly facing the bed, as this can feel unsettling to some people when they’re lying down.
9. Add mirrors to unexpected places
Don’t be afraid to use mirrors in unexpected areas. Think about placing them in corners, along the sides of a staircase, or even behind bookshelves for a subtle depth effect. You can also layer mirrors behind bedside tables or dressers for a cool, modern twist.
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