Reflect-ology
SAM WYLIE-HARRIS learns how to make a style statement with mirrors, whatever your budget
WHETHER it’s checking the way you look, making a room seem bigger or brightening a whole space, mirrors are essential in the home.
“More than ever, shoppers are adorning their walls with statement mirrors that bring light and space into their homes,” says Dayna Isom Johnson, trend expert for Etsy (etsy. com) online marketplace.
“Embodying both form and function, statement mirrors allow shoppers to express their creativity,” she explains.
Dayna says asymmetrical mirrors are especially on the rise, as shoppers look to add pops of personality to their spaces. Think free-form, distorted angles and bean shapes beaming back at you.
As Lucy Mather, interiors expert at luxury home and interiors retailer Arighi Bianchi puts it: “Mirrors are an interior designer’s secret weapon, and it’s easy for homeowners to forget just what an impact a well-placed mirror can have – both from a design and functional perspective.”
Here’s how to bounce the light, frame those furnishings and show your best face.
Think about what you want to see in the mirror
“One of the most crucial considerations you need to take into account when making a statement mirror part of your design is what you want it to reflect,” says Lucy.
“This could be bringing in more natural light and greenery – in which case hang your mirror opposite or adjacent to a window,” she says. “Or, you may want to give an added dimension to a design feature,” – a mirror hung on the mantelpiece opposite your sofa will reflect the space behind you that you don’t see when sitting down.
“If you have artwork or a statement wall, it will reflect it,” observes
Lucy. “Making it visible, even when you have your back to it.”
Take visual illusions into account
Lucy says the same rule can be applied for adding texture to a space.
“A mirror which reflects a piece of rustic furniture, tactile cushions or a throw, will create the illusion of added texture, creating interesting spatial illusions and reflecting your design details around the room.
“Meanwhile, placing a mirror in an entertaining space will make your dinner parties and soirees feel bigger than they actually are,” she suggests.
Not only will a well-placed mirror make your room look bigger, lighter and more interesting, as Lucy points out, they’re also pieces of art in their own right: “From large leaning mirrors to small mirrored accessories – consider what role they have to play as part of your design aesthetic.”
Brendon Haxby, co-founder of online luxury homeware retailer, Naken, agrees: “Mirrors are one of the most versatile tools a homeowner has in their arsenal. Not only are they a practical addition to any home, but choose wisely and they make a real style statement too.”
“It’s all about finding the perfect placement. Hang wisely and a mirror will not only make a space appear bigger, but it can also shine the spotlight on your favourite furnishings, capturing them from all angles and allowing them centre stage.
“And let’s not forget a well-placed mirror will also help maximise any natural light in the home,” he adds.