Using mirrors to enlarge your room and brighten your space

Article content

Outside, mirrors placed around a garden reflect flowers and greenery, creating the illusion of a larger space. Frames that match outdoor finishes give the impression of whimsical little windows around the yard.

Article content

Backlit mirrors are popular for bathroom vanities. Photo by Korch Media Co.

Article content

Light up your life

Article content

“Mirrors enhance brightness by reflecting available light, whether natural or artificial,” says Rezghi. “In darker areas, like hallways or windowless spaces, placing a mirror near a light source helps distribute light more evenly and reduces shadows.”

Article content

Also, a mirror at the end of a dark hallway can help elongate the hall, says Diaz. “Placing a mirror next to a wall sconce, table lamp or chandelier extends the reach of the light and adds symmetry.”

Article content

A windowpane-type mirror hung opposite to or diagonally from a window is like adding another window, which works well — depending on the view. “You don’t want to just reflect a neighbour’s house,” says Diaz. “But if your window looks onto beautiful greenery, for example, then you can double the effect. Through the corner of your eye, you might think there’s another window on the other side.”

Article content

Too much of a good thing can be distracting or irritating, however. Mirrors that reflect harsh light can cause glare and shine that blinds. A simple angle adjustment, frosted glass fixtures or nearby lamps with diffusers can balance the brightness.

Article content

Article content

Shapes, sizes and hang-ups

Article content

Mirrors can give the illusion that a space is much larger than it actually is. Photo by Omid Glass Ltd

Article content

When choosing the size and shape of a mirror, you should take into account the size and shape of the space it will occupy. A mirror that’s too large can overwhelm a room, while a mirror that’s too small can fade into the background. “You want it to be in proportion with the furniture or other elements that are underneath or around it,” says Diaz.

Article content

Hanging a mirror behind a cabinet, console or shelving can add depth, dimension and layering to a room and prevents furniture from appearing flat against a wall. A large mirror behind a sofa can reflect more light and give the illusion of a wider room.

Article content

Some experts advise keeping a mirror’s width roughly the same size as the furniture below it. A mirror that extends slightly beyond the edges of a console table, for example, feels more balanced. A wall mirror in a dining room can double the table and chairs, opening up the space. It can also reflect candles or the glow of a chandelier, warming up the room.

Article content

As for shapes, “Rectangular mirrors offer a modern (symmetrical) and structured look, making them suitable for most spaces,” says Rezghi. “Round or oval mirrors soften a room’s (angles) and are often used in bathrooms or above vanities. Custom shapes can also be used as design features to complement unique interiors. Clean, polished edges (work best) for modern and minimalist designs. Bevelled edges add a more classic or decorative touch, as they catch light and create subtle detailing, making them suitable for traditional or more formal interiors.”

Article content

Article content

A round or oval mirror can soften the angles in a room and are often used in bathrooms or above vanities. Photo by Korch Media Co.

Article content

When deciding on your mirror’s frame, consider whether it will go with the rest of the decor. “You don’t want the frame to be so ornate that it takes away from the mirror’s job of reflecting a beautiful space, complementing the beautiful console that it’s going above, or a gorgeous fireplace,” says Diaz.

Article content

Some experts claim metal frames are cleaner and more modern; distressed wood fits a rustic environment; and ornate gilded frames evoke classic or vintage style. A frame that matches other finishes or features of a room helps tie the space together.

Article content

Hang your mirror as you would hang a painting, advise some experts. Too high or too low will make the room feel asymmetrical or unbalanced. While standing, hang the centre of the mirror at eye level, roughly 60 inches from the floor.

Article content

“It’s also important to ensure professional installation, especially for large or heavy mirrors, to guarantee safety and longevity,” says Rezghi.

Article content

Mirror images

Article content

A mirror can reflect more than a room or a face, it can reflect your personal artistic flair. Whether it’s the size, shape or etching in the glass itself, bevelled or polished edges, the style and material of the frame or finish, or a unique antique, a mirror can be a piece of art in its own right.