A mirror is perhaps as essential to a striking design scheme as artwork, furniture and lighting – and yet, it can so often be an afterthought. ‘In terms of things you can buy for your home, a mirror is probably the one that changes the feeling of the space the most,’ says interior designer Beata Heuman. Given how impactful a mirror can be, how can you be sure you’re choosing the right one?
Heuman’s advice is to consider, first and foremost, the placement of a mirror. ‘If you have a lamp in front of one, it reflects the light, meaning you can create another mood and atmosphere,’ she says. ‘In my first flat, I didn’t have a massive budget, but I would buy cheap mirrors and put them over doors. I still like doing that as it draws the eye upwards and reflects the room. It’s such an effective way of adding depth and height.’
If you’re looking to make a big statement for a relatively low cost, mirrors are an excellent tool. As Heuman points out, ‘they can even be a great alternative to artwork, which would normally be more expensive’. Interior designer Charlotte Rey (one half of the creative studio Campbell Rey) agrees. ‘Mirrors are incredibly versatile in size, colour and shape, and easily work for pure decoration,’ she says. ‘Mix and match frames, or hang them in such a way that they make a room look more spacious – for example, in a corner on adjacent walls.’
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Look for unusual shapes, frames and finishes that either complement the room, or create a contrasting focal point. When it comes to size, Rey advises that bigger is usually better. ‘My general rule is to go for a larger size than you think you need – a mirror should always feel generous,’ she adds.
A collection of smaller mirrors can also be very effective on one, large wall. Whatever you choose, dot a variety of different shapes and sizes throughout your home; when the need for a refresh strikes, you can swap them around and completely change the look of each space in an instant.
