Guide: Choice of mirror
Using mirrors in your décor has many benefits. Among other things, they can make a room seem more spacious and double the light in a room. However, there are also many things to consider, when you want to find the right mirror for your home: Where do you want to place it, what is the purpose with the mirror, what size and frame are right etc. In this guide you get our best advice.
Mirror types
There are wall mirrors designed to be hung and thinner mirrors that do not need to be mounted on the wall. Also, there are separate mirrors with a variable angle of inclination that stand on the floor. They all come in different styles and sizes.
The size of the mirrors
One of the first tasks to solve is choosing the right size:
If you hang a mirror in your dressing room, you probably want to see your full body and the outfit you’re trying on. A hall mirror can be both large and medium in size so that you can check your appearance on the way out.
Even if you’re just using the mirror as a decorative element, don’t be afraid to go the extra mile and make the mirror the centrepiece of the room. Especially if it has a decorative frame.
Also, make sure you choose a mirror that is in proportion to the other items in the room. If you hang it above a sideboard or sofa, keep in mind that the mirror should be about two-thirds the size of the furniture and should never exceed the width of the furniture underneath it.
Mirror shape
Square or rectangular mirrors are probably the most common and may seem like a versatile choice – they are easy to place on the wall. However, other forms also have their advantages. For example, an oval or round mirror is an excellent choice that can soften the look of a corner sofa in your room.
Frame for a mirror
Mirrors are available both without a frame and with various frames: black, white, gold or wooden, wide or narrow, simple or with an ornament. It is the frame of the mirror that determines the style and determines the conformity of the mirror to your interior.
However, the mirror can also be the element that will add the appropriate contrast to the overall style and decor. If the design of the room is very romantic, a mirror with a simple frame can be the right choice. If your style is minimalist, a mirror with a beautiful, ornate frame can emphasize it.
If you want to make a small room seem more spacious, look for a frameless mirror – this is one of the best ways to make the space appear larger than it really is.
Location on the wall
A good guideline is to place the mirror at a distance of approximately 150-160 cm from the floor to the center of the mirror.
If you hang a mirror above a sideboard or console table, place it about 25-30 cm above it.
The mirror should be centrally located on the wall or above the sofa or fireplace, but since mirrors can serve many purposes, there are exceptions to this rule – for example, if you want the mirror to depict the view from the window.
When do you need a mirror?
It is not necessary to limit yourself to hanging a mirror in the bathroom or hallway. Mirrors have so many benefits that they are also perfect for a living room or dining room, or any small or dark room where they help to expand and brighten the space. However, there are some things to avoid when decorating a room with mirrors:
- Do not hang a mirror opposite your bed. When you want to fall asleep, it is important that you are not disturbed by the sight of your own movements or the movements of your partner in a mirror image.
- Do not hang two mirrors facing each other. This will cause the light and reflections to bounce from one to the other multiple times.
- Do not hang the mirror directly opposite the window. The mirror will reflect light into your room, causing glare.
- Do not choose a mirror with a wooden frame for the bathroom. The mirror must withstand the effects of high humidity.
