Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all? Mirrors are often thought of as something we use to make sure we look good, or to check if there’s spinach between our teeth. But if you’re someone who’s passionate about interior design and think of the rooms in your home as works of art, mirrors can be so much more. A beautiful designer mirror can fulfil numerous functions in the home, completely changing the look of a room, transforming it from plain to dazzling. Here are a few ways in which you can use mirrors…
For vanity purposes
Mirrors have been used by human beings for for centuries. Almost every bathroom contains a mirror so you can brush your teeth, style your hair and do your make-up. A full-length mirror is very useful in a bedroom or walk-in wardrobe as it allows you to survey your entire outfit to make sure you look impeccable before leaving the house. And, for you ladies with a dressing table… or a full-blown boudoir, a vanity mirror complete with light bulbs will make you feel like a film star as you do your hair and make-up.
Enlarge a room
Large mirrors can magically make a small, cramped room seem larger. The reflection of an opposite wall can trick the eye into perceiving a room as being more spacious. For this reason, many designers place long horizontal mirrors in dining rooms and living rooms. After all, nobody wants their guests to feel like they’re being squeezed! When using mirrors to enlarge rooms, pay special attention to the size and position of the mirror. It’s usually better to position the mirror closer to the ceiling than to surfaces immediately below such as tables or counter-tops. A large, eye-catching mirror can even become the focal point of the room – so invest wisely. It’s often worth splashing out a bit!
As an artistic piece
Just like a bold painting, mirrors can transform the entire look of a room. Antique, vintage and contemporary designer mirrors can all incorporate such exquisite form and materials – so much so that they’re works of art in their own right. For example, have a look some of the gorgeous mirror frames at online furniture store The Longest Stay. Just as you’d choose artwork based on the mood it evokes and how suitable the colours/design are for your interior, the same considerations apply to mirrors. Take your time when choosing – consider the design of the frame, the age & period features of your house perhaps, the ageing/patina of the glass, where you’d position it in your home etc.
Mirrors are more than just reflective pieces of glass! They enable you to not only look at yourself, but also to visually transform the size, shape and brightness of a room. They can add character and colour. The design and craftsmanship of a beautiful mirror can be every bit as breathtaking as that of a painting or sculpture. When you buy a mirror for your home, it’s an opportunity to add an extra dimension – a chance to really enhance the look & appeal of the space.