Using Mirrors to Create Space

Mirrors are a common interior design trick that helps expand spaces by reflecting natural light. Brightening rooms and reflecting space, mirrors create the illusion that rooms are larger than reality. This article offers helpful tips for using mirrors to expand spaces and increase natural lighting.

Reflect Light - Dark rooms often feel crowded and unwelcome. To make rooms appear bright and inviting, consider positioning mirrors in several ways:

oWindow - Place mirrors opposite windows, as this helps to reflect light and brighten rooms.

oFull-Length - Consider placing full-length mirrors in entryways, as this makes narrow hallways appear larger.

Wall of Mirrors - Contrary to popular belief, a wall of mirrors can help increase visual space and create a balanced flow. Bedrooms and dining rooms can greatly benefit from mirrored walls, instantly giving the illusion of twice the space. Mirrored placements on dining tables are also attractive, especially when they reflect an ornate chandelier.

Fireplaces - Placing mirrors near fireplaces make this area appear warm and cheerful. Mirrored fireplace screens are an excellent alternative to traditional mirrors, as these capture the glow of the fire, helping to create a bright and welcoming living room area.

Ceilings - Not your standard 1970's bedroom style, ceiling mirrors can mimic skylights when placed in small powder rooms or kitchen pantries.

Outdoors - Patios, balconies and small gardens are a great place to position mirrors. Gardens that feature walls can be dressed up with whimsical mirrors. Before placing mirrors outdoors, confirm they are weatherproof.

General designer tips for using mirrors include the following:

Larger mirrors help to reflect more light.

Embrace creativity and hang mirrors over mantelpieces. Challenge standard decorating skills and find new places to hang mirrors.

Mirrors look attractive on coffee tables, as they reflect light upwards.

Mirrors are perfect for drawing the eye away from unattractive areas.

The Oval and Round Mirror Store offers an assortment of round mirrors, oval mirrors and rectangle mirrors. Mirrors are available in black, brown, cherry, gold, green, blue, red, silver and white. Sizes vary from 13"x19" to 26"x36". Styles include antique, beading, contemporary, country, decorative, flat, gold lip, ornate, scooped, silver lip, simple, vintage and wood grain.

Serving customers and designers for three decades, they also offer custom frames and sizes, which are perfect for contemporary, antique, modern and Victorian style designs.