Reflect on this
Jeffrey Fisher on whether it’s OK to mirror a wall.
Hi Jeffrey, I moved into my loft space two years ago and really haven’t done much to it. Having spent a lot of time indoors this winter, I realize that not only am I going to be living here for a few more years but it’s also time to add a personal touch to my 850-square-foot space. The living and dining room are one combined room and I’ve been toying with the idea of mirroring a wall in hopes of making the space appear larger. What are your thoughts on mirrored walls? Are they passé?
Yvonne Hi Yvonne, Though winter was long and seemed never-ending, I’m glad it motivated you to think about personalizing your loft space this spring. And if it’s permission you’re looking for to mirror your wall, consider this response permission granted.
Mirrored walls are an age-old trick to make spaces appear larger than they actually are, but because they were popular in the disco days of Halston (you may be too young for this reference), they’re often perceived as dated in today’s decorating terms. I think if done properly mir- rored walls come off as a classic.
Ideally the wall you choose to mirror will reflect something worthy of being reflected, such as a chandelier, window or wall of art. If the goal is to brighten your space, then catching the reflection of light from a window or lighting fixture will do the trick.
Considering the size of your loft, you may need to treat the mirrored wall like wallpaper, placing furniture against it or hanging a piece of art or another decorative mirror on top of it. This layered look will add visual depth to your room without screaming “look at my mirrored wall.”
Another consideration is the size of wall you’re mirroring and where to place the seams. Mirror typically comes in a maximum width of 85 inches and eight feet in height, so unless you are mirroring a very small wall, there will be seams. And moving a pane of glass is not like moving a mattress. Your installer will have to take into consideration the size of your building’s elevator, hall turns, etc. in order to ensure the panes of mirror can fit into your unit. Depending on your wall measurement, you may want to use a full width centered on the wall and two smaller pieces on either side, or three equal panels. If the height exceeds eight feet (or what can easily move into your building) and you need a horizontal seam consider hiding it behind a sofa. However, if it’s not a wall intended for furniture, mimic the same seam top and bottom. You can also divide the wall into large oversized mirrored panels that stack. This treatment deals with the seaming issue while at the same time provides a contemporary look. (Be cautious of using mirrored 12x12-inch wall tiles from the big box store, though; they can look a little too DIY and dated.)
Depending on your design style, you may want to choose tinted or antique mirror (I recently covered the tops of my weathered nightstands with beautiful bronze mirror, which I love). There are also different qualities of mirror, so if it’s an ultra-clear mirror you’re after (made with glass that has a reduced iron content) be sure to ask for it when you choose a supplier. It’s more expensive than regular mirror, so have it quoted both ways to confirm it’s actually a priority for you.
I’m sure when you spent your winter thinking about whether to mirror a wall in your loft you didn’t realize how much there is to consider, and I hope I haven’t discouraged you. I encourage you to source a reputable mirror installer who will come to your loft for a proper consultation.
Good luck, Jeffrey Send your decor question to askjeffrey@gmail.com