Mirrors are one of the most underrated design tools and one of my favourites to work with when staging or flipping a home. Whether you’re renovating, decorating or simply refreshing a space; mirrors bring both function and flair into a room.
From enhancing natural light to creating the illusion of space, here’s how to make the most of mirrors in your home.
Why Use Mirrors?
Mirrors can be used for either grooming purposes or purely to enhance a space. By placing them strategically they can reflect light, creating the illusion of ‘airiness’ or add architectural and visual interest.
Strategic Mirror Placement Tips
1. Opposite or next to windows
To boost light in darker rooms or gloomy corners, place a mirror where it can catch natural light. It not only makes a space feel bigger but also brighter; this is especially helpful in winter or when the sun just isn’t cooperating. Optimise the placing of mirrors for maximum visual effect; mirrors can amplify the inherent beauty of the surroundings, adding a sense of expansiveness.
2. To recreate a ‘window’
Don’t have a great view? No problem. A well-placed mirror can mimic the feel of a window and bounce greenery or sky into a room, adding a sense of openness and calm.
3. In long, narrow spaces
A full-length mirror in a narrow hallway or dressing room adds depth and prevents the area from feeling cramped or boxy.
4. On feature walls
A bold, framed mirror can make as much of an impact as artwork. Think above a fireplace, behind a dining table, or in an entryway for instant style and functionality. Aim the mirror in such a way that it reflects something of interest such as the garden, an architectural feature, a lovely painting or a stunning wallpaper.
5. For symmetry and balance
Flanking a fireplace or TV with matching mirrors? That’s a designer trick that adds symmetry, balances the room, and creates an elegant, cohesive look.
Height, Spacing & Proportions
Getting the positioning right makes a big difference:
- Hang at eye level, but keep in mind that eye level varies from person to person (Being short, my eye level is too low for most! So, I do have to remind myself to stand on my tip toes!!)
- Leave a gap of at least 10cm between the bottom of the mirror and the top of any furniture beneath it (like a console or dresser) to create a visual break.
- Align the centre of the mirror with your line of sight to ensure it’s naturally viewable and visually balanced.
Style Matters
Choose a mirror that blends with your home’s overall aesthetic. Here are some tips:
- Let the frame reflect your style – wood, metal, ornate, or minimal.
- Use mirrors to complement furnishings, echoing tones or shapes in the space. Mirrors can add to the décor in a room, and compliment the furnishings, just by ‘mirroring’.
- An elaborate mirror can serve as a statement piece, blending drama with function perfect for that extra ‘wow’ factor in a flipped home.
Bonus Tip: Bring the Outside In
Mirrors are brilliant for bringing the outdoors inside. Position one to reflect a garden, tree, or pot plant and instantly add life and freshness to a space; even when you’re indoors.
In Summary
Mirrors are more than just reflective surfaces, they’re tools of transformation. They brighten, expand, accentuate, and elevate. Whether you’re flipping a property, preparing it for rental, or styling your forever home; thoughtful mirror placement can help turn any room into something special.
I love mirrors for the light, luxury, and visual magic they bring, and I think you will too.
