Itching to redecorate and face the new year feeling refreshed? A new mirror is a relatively small design element that can have a big impact on a room. Whether you’re using your mirror to accentuate a wall, add light to a space, or reflect a favorite view, it can be overwhelming to make a selection.
Before you begin to narrow down your top choices, read through these tips for selecting the right mirror for your space.
Tip 1: Consider placement.
Size is a major determining factor when making your choice. Is your mirror a statement piece or an accent? Is it mainly practical or decorative? The answers to these questions will guide your selection.
For over bathroom sinks…
Depending on the size of your bathroom vanity, you could opt for a single large mirror or two equally sized mirrors.
For over a piece of furniture…
As a general rule of thumb, keep the mirror a few inches shorter and smaller than the furniture below it. This gives a sense of symmetry and makes it easy to layer on elements like lamps, vases, and tchotchkes without disrupting the balance or looking crowded.
On the wall…
The size for this is dependent on your space and your goals. Smaller mirrors work well incorporated into a gallery wall, while a medium or large mirror might be a nice addition to your entryway or hallway.
Tip 2: Play with shapes.
Before you get your heart set on one style, take a step back and assess your room as a whole. Consider the existing shapes—do you have arched doorways? Rounded countertop corners? Go for a complementary rounded edge for your mirror or add the perfect amount of contrast by choosing a silhouette with a sharp edge and clean lines.
For spaces like the bathroom, you’ll need to consider the existing electrical outfit and lighting, as that’s harder to swap out. Don’t forget to think about your sconces or overhead lights when selecting your mirror shape!
Tip 3: Choose a style.
Instead of choosing your mirror as a standalone piece, take stock of the materials that will surround it. If your mirror will be somewhere like a bathroom, a simple, streamlined style may be the most pleasing for the eye. That said, there’s no requirement to match your mirror with hardware, lighting fixtures, or furniture. Mixed metals can add a nice intrigue to a room.
For more tips on how to mix metals, be sure to read this article.
Tip 4: Consider upgrading your existing mirror.
Before you buy a new mirror, determine if your old one is worth salvaging. For example, if you have a sheet mirror behind your bathroom vanity, adding a frame to the existing mirror is an affordable way to get a professionally designed look.
Choose from 80+ frame styles and finishes with Add A Frame® for a fast, customized, easy-to-install end product. It's the perfect way to achieve a refreshed look without splurging.
Tip 5: Try before you buy.
If you’re a visual person, it can be tough to imagine the final result without having all the pieces in place. That’s why we offer samples! Try a couple different styles to get a feel for what material and finish looks best in your space before you make a commitment.