Mirrors are one of those stylish and versatile accessories used by designers to decorate interiors. Using mirrors in a variety of sizes, styles, and shapes not only helps increase their practicality, but also helps create an optical illusion, add visual interest, or create a fun atmosphere. Just like the placement of lighting, furniture, paint is important in interior design.
Mirrors in the living room interior
A mirror in the living room can be more than just an ordinary addition to the interior. The right mirror and its frame will make every living room unique, especially if it becomes the main element in the room. A large rectangular mirror placed against the wall of the living room will make the room very spacious, as it will reflect rays of light.
If you choose appropriate finishing materials and bright, muted wall colors, the interior can be associated with a slightly oriental, Asian atmosphere. It will definitely look great in combination with well-chosen wallpaper for the walls or against a wooden wall.
If you want a cozy and elegant interior, a mirror will be the ideal solution. This will be appropriate, especially when our living room is not too large and you plan to decorate it in a classic style. In a bright room, furnished with stylish furniture, for example, elegant armchairs stylized in the first half of the twentieth century, the right mirror in a classic gilded frame will make the living room look like the best American films.
Types of mirrors
Rectangular
It is best to place such a mirror on a wall that is free from other decor, and in such a way that it takes up at least half of its space, otherwise it will not look very appropriate.
Rectangular full-length mirror on legs in the bedroom
Kitchen apron made of aged rectangular mirrors
Rectangular mirror in decorative wooden frame
Round
Mirrors of this shape look good in the bedroom, located, for example, above the bedside tables, they add romance and coziness to this room.
Round mirror above the fireplace in a decorative metal frame
Decorative round mirror in the bathroom
Round mirror in Rococo style in a private residence
Round sun mirror above the fireplace in the living room
Square
The laconic shape of a square looks good in the interior, but in terms of its functions it is still inferior to a rectangle. Used mainly to save space.
Square mirror in a classic bathroom interior
Decorative aged square mirror
Oval
An oval-shaped mirror best copes with its main task. It does not take up extra space and, due to the lack of corners, visually smoothes out the space around it.
Arch
An arched mirror combines the advantages of oval and rectangular, reflects well and saves space.
Mirror in a decorative frame
Hexagonal
This unusual form of mirror has been gaining more and more popularity lately. It can be used in any room where it can fit harmoniously into the interior.
Hexagonal decorative mirror
Free form
An even more unusual type of mirror, suitable for avant-garde interiors, can be presented in the form of a puzzle, animal figure, plant, etc. Looks best in large rooms that are not overloaded with other decorative elements.
Figured decorative mirror in the living room
Decorative mirror in the shape of an elongated hourglass above the chest of drawers in the living room
In the modern world, mirrors are not limited to just the above forms, there are many other diverse mirror design ideas.
- A sun mirror, which is based on a round mirror framed in a frame of mirror rays or rays made of other materials.
- Mirror panel, which can be made up of small mirrors of different shapes and sizes.
- The mirror seems to be assembled from fragments. A very unusual design solution that will not appeal to everyone.
- Colored mirrors. Tinted in different colors, they can set the tone for any setting, but will be especially good in the bedroom.
- Convex or depressed mirrors look very unique, but they allow you to look at the space of the rooms reflected in them in a completely different way.
- Aged mirrors. Sometimes they not only have a vintage frame, but their reflective surface looks as if it has been in the world for many, many years, or even centuries. Suitable for classic luxury interiors.
Mirrors in decorative frames in the living room
Oval mirror in Art Nouveau style
Round mirror in the living room - ideas that will delight
A mirror can do a lot in an interior, not only because it will decorate it, but also because its shape can add to the aesthetic value of the design. A classic round mirror with a gold frame will fit perfectly into a dark, modern living room. By hanging it in the center of the wall, your guests will notice it. Placing several mirrors on the wall in the living room of different sizes will become a unique decoration of any room. It is worth making sure that the shapes of all accessories in the room fit well with each other.
Possibilities and potential of using mirrors in interior design
Functional and decorative mirrors for the interior have limitless potential; with their help, you can emphasize the individuality of the room and highlight architectural accents or even hide imperfections; they are most often used for:
- transforming the interior space without the use of bulky furniture or expensive finishing materials for surfaces in different planes;
- completely changing the geometry of the room, giving it depth and compositional completeness due to the reflection of interior items and furniture;
- create a truly unique design project for decoration and arrangement thanks to simple and absolutely inexpensive decorative solutions in the interior.
The ability of mirror and reflective surfaces is used by designers as a unique opportunity to increase the volume of narrow and small rooms; the combination of several mirrors helps artificial lighting create a feeling of spaciousness.
The potential of these interior items is limitless, but their inclusion in the interior design must be approached responsibly; this will create an unusual composition and a cozy atmosphere in the house, no matter what style it is decorated in.
When is a mirror needed in the living room?
Sometimes a mirror in the living room can be just an accessory, and sometimes it can be a necessary element. It is difficult to imagine the real arrangement of a living room in the glamor or New York style, where there would be no mirror in the living room. These styles are characterized by attention to the smallest details in interior design and the use of stylish accessories that always make these interiors impressive.
Of course, you shouldn’t overdo it so as not to overload the entire interior. A large mirror in the living room will definitely help to achieve a unique effect - it will add spaciousness to your decor, and in the case of a small living room, it will also optically enlarge it. It is also worth emphasizing the appropriate selection of shape and frame.
A few words about styles
It is worth briefly outlining the main postulates of the styles most used in modern interiors. This will help you choose the right model, choose the right colors and create a harmonious image. In the most general sense, we can divide the available styles into modern and ancient.
Mirrors with neutral, thin frames suit almost any style
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Modern directions
We include futuristic styles in this category. These include minimalism, chalet, art deco, loft, techno, contemporary, bionics, hi-tech. We are talking about those trends that profess the postulate of minimalism and use modern technologies in design.
Marble wall covering with mirror inserts is truly modern
For lovers of non-standard solutions, there are unusual mirrors
Preferred materials for modern styles: metal, glass, plastic and wood. The color range covers all shades, both light and dark. The color of the surfaces is predominantly monochromatic. The frame for the mirror in such styles must be chosen as simple and uncluttered as possible. There is no place for ornate decor here. Simplicity and practicality are the basic rules of all elements of modern trends.
Ancient directions
We consider old styles to be those styles that do not use innovation in design. This includes classics, antique styles, Provence, English, and all national trends. They are not old and irrelevant. They simply take us back in time and give us ancient luxury.
A mirror with a gilded frame is suitable for a classic style
Here you will not find an abundance of glossy surfaces, cold light, strict lines and the tenets of minimalism. Simple and tasteful - this is not from this opera. The destinations of this group are luxurious and magnificent. Perhaps some of them are overloaded for modern life. However, there are lovers of luxury and ancient chic even today.
In Scandinavian interiors, mirrors are often placed on the floor.
In this case, mirrors must match the style and be truly luxurious. Most of them are in beautiful massive frames. They can be carved or with stucco elements. Large floor-standing models work well.
Hang a mirror in the living room - where?
Perhaps the most popular place for a mirror in the living room is the wall behind the sofa; decorative paintings are also often hung here, and a mirror can become their original, beautiful replacement. A good place for a mirror in the living room is also the walls above the fireplace or chest of drawers - it all depends, however, on the options for arranging a particular interior.
When hanging a mirror, pay special attention to the objects that will be reflected in it. If you think carefully about this issue, you can beautifully multiply the effect of other decorations. When choosing a place for a mirror in the living room, you can also be guided by the priority of beautiful interior lighting. A mirror probably shouldn't be hung in front of a window, but hanging it on the wall perpendicular to the windows will give a really beautiful effect.
Goal 4 – Decorating the room
A variety of shapes, frames and colors allow mirrors to be a bright decoration of the interior. Since such an accessory has decorative functions in the first place, their choice is almost unlimited.
Thus, unusual mirrors from IKEA will be a wonderful addition to any design and style: modular “Lots”, consisting of four squares, curved “Skobu” and “Lundamo”, two meters high, and the classic “Ekne” series with a forged openwork frame and “Grua” ” with a rounded, strict frame.
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Mirrors in the hallway interior
A large mirror in the hallway is an invaluable comfort. Most often, interior design involves placing a large mirror on the wall. On the other hand, if the mirror you choose is too heavy due to its size or frame size, place it on the floor, leaning against the wall. This solution is possible where there are no small children and animals (then it would not be entirely safe).
Style and functionality: fashion trends
To create a complete interior, the mirror must be positioned correctly. Today designers offer three non-standard solutions.
- Firstly, it is original to place the mirror at an angle to the wall. This visually breaks up the space.
- Secondly, you can hang mirrors on the ceiling. This technique can overcome the problem of a low or uneven ceiling without eating up the area with suspended slabs or suspended ceilings.
- And finally, the mirror floor is a success. Floor mirror inclusions give the room a completely unique look.
Next you need to think about the frame. Fashion dictates its requirements:
- frames should be either made of natural wood, varnished or painted in different colors,
- or made of copper, antique-finished.
Mirrors with treated glass frames are also common.
They form one whole with the mirror, differing only in tone or coating. And the most important condition for selecting a frame, for example, a sun mirror, is harmony with the overall style of the interior.
If it’s difficult to decide, you can choose a simple unpainted wooden frame to match the furniture.
Where to hang mirrors in the hallway?
If you decide to install one wall mirror in the hallway, you should carefully choose the place where it will be located. Helpful tip: don't hang a mirror opposite the front door. Not every guest will be happy if he is greeted by ... a reflection right at the entrance.
A mirror hung opposite the entrance to the living room gives an interesting decorative effect. In such a situation, carefully check what is reflected in it! Ideally, it should be an interesting piece of furniture or living room decor. No matter where the mirror is located, you should keep it clean regularly. Any dirt and stains will be immediately visible!
Mirror with built-in lighting
An original find for any fashionista is the purchase of a mirror (floor, hanging) with built-in spotlights. Modular lamps of small diameter are mounted into the frame along the contour of the mirror, and therefore create an interesting visual effect. This mirror can be used when there is a lack of lighting (artificial or natural) in the apartment.
Mirrors in the bedroom interior
A mirror in the bedroom is a controversial decision. According to Feng Shui philosophy, this should not be done. At the same time, the tastes and needs of many indicate the opposite - a mirror in the bedroom is the basis. It's good to know where to place it so that it brings only benefits.
According to the principles of Feng Shui, a mirror is a desirable element of the home space because it reflects the image of beautiful objects and views, and therefore “multiplies” them. In particular, it is desirable to reproduce the reflection of the view outside the window, lit candles, as well as burning lamps and plants. Plenty is proof of wealth, so according to Eastern philosophy, mirrors should be hung in front of the places where we keep money.
Western philosophy is much more supportive of decorating a bedroom using a mirror. She focuses on practicality and aesthetics and does not take metaphysics into account when planning an apartment.
Effective separation with mirror walls
Mirrors can be used not only as a solid sheet, but also as individual elements. The separation effect smoothes out the irritating effect of reflection, without losing the ability to enlarge and brighten the space. The distances for such crushing are different. They can be equal in size to the border of mirrors (suitable for rooms with a small area), wide mirrors at a narrow distance from each other (for a large room) look aesthetically pleasing, and vice versa (a large distance between narrow mirrors sets off the pastel color of the walls).
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By adopting one of the proposed methods, the apartment owner will create an effective, non-standard and bold design for his home, for example:
- reflection of light rays at different angles and in different directions, like many small prisms;
- combination of different reliefs, shapes and textures;
- eccentricity and originality of both the home and the owner.
Mirror in the bathroom interior
A cabinet with a mirrored front or a classic mirror directly above the sink is the standard. A mirror in the bathroom can become the main or even the only decoration. It all depends on your imagination.
Oval or rectangular, hanging or vertical, minimalist or framed with a richly decorated frame - the model of the mirror and its size should be chosen primarily in accordance with the effect that you want to achieve with it. Skillfully integrated, it allows, on the one hand, to visually add depth to the bathroom interior, and on the other, to hide architectural flaws.
Mosaic mirror frame
Don't forget about the shape of the mirror. Sometimes you can do without a frame at all by purchasing a wall mirror of an original shape. But most often they still choose mirrors of classic shapes:
- oval,
- square
- or rectangular.
They are functional and suitable for any interior. It is especially fashionable today to use a “storyboard”: placing several large vertical mirrors or diamonds next to each other.
What to look for when choosing a bathroom mirror?
Beyond the purely decorative aspects, look at the workmanship. Is it made of good quality material and the mirror layer is durable and not damaged. Check whether the mirror reflects the image correctly and does not distort the figure. The surface should be smooth, without folds or bubbles. Try to look at the mirror in different lighting. Details are clearly visible on a light surface.
The size and shape of the mirror largely depend on the size of the bathroom, its layout and the desired effect. This is a great way to visually enlarge a space, regardless of its size. But this will only be possible if it is skillfully integrated into the overall bathroom design.
However, don't go overboard with the sizes. Too much can overload a small interior. When choosing a mirror to hang above the sink, you should choose one that is narrower than the sink itself. This will add lightness to the entire interior. Don't forget to also install it a little higher than the sink itself, which will avoid constant splashing of the mirror and reflections from the sink.
Tips and tricks
There are general recommendations for choosing a mirror for any room:
- It is better to choose wall mirrors with a frame with a wooden or white surface, which, due to their versatility, are suitable for almost any interior style;
- Models with a non-uniform texture, openwork frame, inserts or convex bulbs quickly become dusty and dirty, so options with a flat frame and built-in lighting are optimal;
- Silver microfilm with a thickness of 0.15 to 0.30 microns will best protect the mirror;
- A matte surface is more suitable for bedrooms;
- Mirrors made in Germany, Italy and France are considered to be of the highest quality;
- It is more reliable to mount a mirror, especially a massive one, on anchors with brackets.
A mirror will always be part of the interior, no matter what functions are assigned to it, so before purchasing, focus not only on its functionality and equipment, but also on its appearance.
To make choosing a new piece of furniture easier and faster, do not forget to look at the photos of wall mirrors in furnished rooms, carefully examine its surface, and select reliable fasteners. And, of course, choose with your heart.
Where is the best place to hang a bathroom mirror?
The first association, the most obvious, is the wall above the sink . And rightly so, because it is also the most comfortable and most ergonomic place. In it we look at ourselves, put on makeup, comb our hair. This is the first choice, and usually many people start with it. The mirror above the washbasin can be “stretched” across the entire wall to visually enlarge the interior. You can achieve a similar effect by installing large glass from the washbasin to the ceiling. Discreet LED strips on both sides fit perfectly into it. This is a good solution to optically “raise” low rooms.
In addition to the sink area, mirrors are increasingly being hung above the bathtub as a decorative element. For small interiors, design experts recommend installing a large wall mirror, glued between the tiles along the wall. The impression of depth in a small bathroom can also be achieved with shower enclosures made of large transparent glass panels. There are also shower doors on the market with slightly mirrored reflections that add an interesting design effect.
In large bathrooms or bathrooms where there is enough space to separate the vanity area, vanity mirrors or large mirrors standing in a designer frame are ideal. They should be used to highlight unique interior elements. They also have a utility function, freeing up space for daily care or makeup
Variety of models
The modern market offers a large selection of different models. Now everyone can find something they like. However, here you still need to choose a product that will harmonize with the overall mood of the room.
A mirror in a beautiful frame will easily transform the interior of even the most modest room
We suggest considering the available options for using various models and the style directions to which they are well suited:
| Model | Suitable style |
| Framed | Provence, Baroque, English, Gzhel |
| Without frame | Minimalism, techno |
| Compositions | Vintage, boho |
| Mosaic | Empire, Gothic |
| Instead of gender | Art Deco, Art Nouveau |
| Instead of a ceiling | High-tech, contemporary, neoclassical |
| Instead of a wall | Bionics, classic |
| Built into furniture | Bauhaus, constructivism |
This unusual mirror will be the highlight of a modern interior.
So, based on what mood you want to create, choose the appropriate design. Let's look at their advantages, disadvantages and methods of use in more detail.
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Framed
In modern design, there are many options for using mirrors in the interior, but the most popular is still the traditional one - in a frame. But can it be called traditional, given all the available variety of models.
Large mirrors look good in the living room
Here the greatest attention is paid to the choice of frame: its shape, color, material, texture. The choice of frame determines in what style you can use the purchased item.
So, for antique styles, a frame with stucco molding and heavy plaster decor is suitable. English, Renaissance, Mannerism accepts heavy carved frames made of natural wood. Natural material can be replaced with artificial wood, using stain, giving it a natural look.
Two round mirrors in a frame, placed side by side, look like portholes
New styles also accept the use of frames, but their appearance has changed somewhat. Here we have simpler options, as well as other materials. Simplicity and practicality are the main tenets of the current style. Accordingly, they were adopted by accessories. Circle and square are the most common shapes. Simple plain frames without decorations are what you need for new trends.
See also: We use lighting design wisely. Photos and recommendations.
Without frame
Modern trends accept the previous version, but some of them went further, completely submitting to the concept of minimalism, and completely removed the frames.
When choosing models without a frame, pay attention to the edges - they must be well processed
It is worth noting that such models do not seem empty or comfortable. They bring a touch of novelty and futurism to the room. Often such models have an unusual shape, but round or rectangular mirrors without a frame are also found.
See alsoContemporary style in the interior. Photo examples.
Compositions
Another interesting solution of modern design is the creation of compositions. Here you can use both models of interesting shapes and ordinary ones.
An original composition of mirrors of various shapes will be an excellent wall decoration
Mirrors can have additional functions, such as coat hooks
You can create an interesting installation using ordinary glass of different shapes. You can add family photos to it, which will also diversify the picture. In this case, you have the right to select any models and connect them with a common story. The main thing is that they match each other and the overall style of the room.
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Mosaic
The next unusual idea is mosaic. This technique has been around for a long time. It is associated with colored glass, churches and ancient style. With the help of mirror mosaics, you can create both antique and modern styles in the interior.
Mirror mosaics can be used to cover a small area or be used to decorate an entire wall.
Mosaic can be completely different. With its help you can create various “broken figures”, patterns and compositions from small parts. A good solution would be to decorate an ordinary mirror with a mosaic.
You can make this kind of mirror frame with your own hands.
Combine this technique with others, and also add various materials to it (colored glass, metal, wood). Please note that the mosaic elements are not only broken and sharp, as we are used to seeing. In modern style, they can be round or other interesting shapes. Depending on the chosen design theme, this technique is suitable for any style.
See also: Decorating a chest of drawers with your own hands
Instead of gender
This unusual solution is suitable only for daredevils, as there are many nuances here:
- the model is suitable only for certain parts of the room;
- the decor should be thought out to the smallest detail;
- you will have to make a solid panel to cover the floor only to order;
- this requires special care and gentle operation;
- the cost of such an idea is quite high.
How to implement this solution? There are several options for this unusual design.
You can install mirrors completely around the entire perimeter of the floor, covering them with protective material. This way you will be able to maximize the space and create the illusion of a transparent floor. This idea is interesting only for some non-residential rooms, since being in such a room every day may not be comfortable.
Mirror floor is a very extraordinary and expensive solution
The second option is to focus attention. Using a mirror floor, you can easily highlight any area or object in the room. Simply finish a certain area of the floor in this way and place the desired item on top.
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Instead of a ceiling
Let's move on to the opposite - the ceiling. This option is more common. This idea is perfect for rooms with low ceilings, and will support minimalist futuristic styles.
Mirrored ceiling tiles will make the hallway visually taller
On a note! To apply this idea, the floors in the room must be light.
A panel covering the entire ceiling will create a feeling of fullness in the room, visually enlarge the space, and with the skillful use of ceiling lamps it will play an important role in shaping the lighting. When lighting fixtures are positioned correctly, mirrors will diffuse light and also reflect light fixtures, creating even more light.
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Instead of a wall
This is an even more common idea than the previous two. Mirror walls are used in dance classes and aerobics rooms. This helps the student self-correct all elements and monitor the correctness of their implementation. A full-wall mirror in a living room interior does not have such practical significance, but it will be useful and a good design.
A full-wall mirror is an ideal solution for a narrow corridor
Mirrored walls will help expand the space and bring more light into the room. In addition, they will be useful for self-correction of posture.
This idea allows you to use not only a solid panel, but also combine mirrors with other elements, apply sandblasting patterns, or use different types of partitions, breaking up the solid structure.
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Models built into furniture
This option is suitable for those who love large models, but cannot afford a mirror wall, floor or ceiling. Sliding wardrobes with such a door are most often used. They can be installed in the bedroom, living room or hallway. An interesting effect will be created by similar floor cabinets or a table.
The most common option is a mirror included in the headset
Do you want your bed to “float” in the air? Cover its perimeter with a mirror strip
When using such furniture, take care of the elements that it will display. Place an interesting vase or other element that looks unusual in reflection against the cabinet or table.
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