How to Choose the Right Mirror For Your Interior

Mirrors play a surprisingly big part in the interior styling of your home. If used right, they can add extra light to your space while making your room appear bigger than it is. 

But mirrors are available in all shapes and sizes, from elaborate full-length framed leaning mirrors to small decorative wall-mounted designs, so how do you choose the right mirror for your space? 

Consider the Size and Position of Your Mirror

When it comes to mirrors, size is everything! Too big and your room will be overpowered; too small and it can look lost on your wall. 

Before you buy a mirror, measure the space that you want to place it. If you are hanging a mirror above a mantelpiece or shelf, then a good rule of thumb is to choose a mirror that is two-thirds of the width of what it hangs above. A mirror shouldn’t be wider than that which it hangs above. 

You should also consider the height positioning - mirrors should be positioned at eye level - there’s no point hanging a mirror if you can’t see into it! 

Large, full-length mirrors are great for reflecting light and making rooms look bigger, and ceilings seem higher. These can be useful in bedrooms both for practical uses and to bring a sense of brightness and spaciousness. 

Conversely, smaller mirrors can be used as decorative accents and can be used to catch light or form part of a larger gallery wall or group of mirrors for a focal point in the room. 

What Shape Mirror Should I Choose?

A big factor to consider when choosing mirrors is the shape.

Circular Mirrors

A circular mirror is a stylish option and can be used to soften a space that is decorated with straight lines and hard angles. For example, a circular mirror can work well above a mantelpiece, as the curves of the circular mirror contrast well with the straight shape of the mantel, working to balance and soften the space. 

Horizontal Mirrors 

Mirrors that are longer in width help to draw your eye around the room, making it seem bigger. These can fit in well in hallways, where you want to add in extra light and make the space appear wider.

Vertical or Full-Size Mirrors 

A mirror that is taller than it is wider will enhance the height of your space. It draws your eyes up and can make the ceiling seem higher while brightening the whole room. 

Hexagon Mirrors

Hexagonal mirrors, like our Fawkner Wall Mirrors, can be clustered together to create a bigger mirror focal point in your room. Geometric shapes bring a contemporary feel and provide an eye-catching feature for your space. 

Square Mirrors

A square mirror brings a feeling of organisation and order to your space. It can work in modern spaces to add depth and interest. 

Unique Mirror Shapes

More unusual mirror shapes, such as rattan sunshine mirrors or our Dutchbone Kubu Circular Woven Rattan Mirror, make excellent additions to feature walls and can work alone or as part of a gallery wall, accompanying framed art, photographs and wall hangings. 

Mirrors With Storage

Mirrors can be functional as well as decorative for a multi-use accessory for your home. A dual mirror and coat rack works wonderfully in hallways that are limited on space, taking up less wall space while providing both a mirror and additional storage. 

Likewise, a small bedroom, dressing room, or hallway would benefit from a floor mirror with hanging rail, like the Dex Freestanding Mirror Rack, offering space for you to hang clothes, accessories, or coats where you can try them on and check your reflection. 

What Style of Mirror Frame Should I Choose? 

The style and design of a mirror can also make or break a room if you are trying to create a specific aesthetic trend in your home. The frame plays a big part in the overall design of the mirror. 

• Gilt or ornate frames - suit traditional interiors or those with a cultural feel. They can also be used for contrast within a modern interior.
• Distressed frames - work in a country-themed interior or eclectic space. 
• Simple lines - suits a modern or casual interior. 
• Bamboo or rattan mirror frame - brings a boho feel to a space and is good to use for gallery walls. 
• Wood frame - wooden frames suit most interior styles. Opt for dark wood in traditional spaces, while light wood is ideal for crafting a Scandinavian home. 
• Metal frames - work as a decorative piece or functional option in an industrial-style home. With many colour options from brass, copper, or painted black, metal frames are surprisingly versatile. 
• Glass frames - adds a contemporary feel. 

Ready to complete your interior with the perfect mirror? Now that you know how to choose the right mirror for your space, take a look at our collection of mirrors to find the one for you.