Being strategic with your choice and placement of mirrors can dramatically transform a room. Here are some techniques to use for all types of situations.

Where to place

Light up a room by aligning a mirror near the direction of a light source in the room, such as a lamp or window. If a room or space feels very small, opt for a larger sized mirror for an illusion of more space.

Mirrors work best at an adult’s eye level. This keeps them visible and easy to use.

For full length mirrors, try to place them in a large room. This will help prevent anyone from knocking into and accidentally breaking them. Be careful not to place mirrors in locations where you would not want to see your reflection, such as facing a toilet, shower, or around your bed (it might be a little scary at night to see your reflection or see something moving when you’re half awake).

How to pick the size

Of course, mirrors are also functional. Make sure the size suits your needs first, before you decide on other factors. For example, you may want a larger mirror in the bedroom to help you style your outfits.

Mirrors help create the illusion of more space. If you have a large wall, you can add one large mirror or a series of smaller mirrors. If a room feels very small, opt for a larger-sized mirror if it’s possible to include without accidentally bumping into it.

Picking the shape and style

If you would like your mirror to be a statement piece, pick something that will contrast with the environment. (A statement piece is something attracts attention and that expresses your style.)

For example, if you have a room that has rectangular furniture and want your mirror to stand out, a rounded mirror will add contrast.

Match your frame to a color in the room, and the style of the room. You might come across a fancy mirror that you like but if the rest of the room has a different style, it’s going to look very out of place! I recommend sticking with only one or two styles for an entire home, assuming you have several rooms. This will allow objects to be moved and used interchangeably.

Personally, I would avoid choosing a mirror that has too many colors or design elements going on, because it can look busy. I find that going as simple as possible with one item really helps keep your home looking neat as you accumulate more items over time.

You can add open louver vinyl shutters to the sides of a mirror for the illusion that it is a window, furthering the feel of an open space.

Aside from adding to the edges of a mirror, I personally don’t think mirror decals work very well especially with stickers of text as it becomes difficult to read and gets in the way of using the mirror.

Incorporating mirrors into your decor can open up your space and add a touch of elegance. Armed this new knowledge, be careful not to turn your place into a mirror house! (unless that’s what you’re going for)