How to Use Mirrors in Home Design
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Clever ways to reflect more than just your outfit.
Mirrors are one of the most underrated tools in home design. Yes, they’re practical, but they’re also powerful. When placed with intention, mirrors can bounce light, expand small spaces, and add visual interest to almost any room.
Here’s how to use mirrors to enhance your space with style and purpose.
Reflect Natural Light
If your home is short on sunshine, mirrors can help.
Hang one opposite or near a window to reflect light deeper into the room.
It’s one of the easiest ways to brighten a dark corner or north-facing wall.
Design Tip: Try this in smaller living rooms, powder rooms, or anywhere natural light feels limited. It pairs especially well with a light colour palette to lift the entire space.
Make Small Spaces Feel Bigger
Mirrors add depth.
Tall mirrors can visually raise a low ceiling.
Wide mirrors stretch narrow walls.
Used right, they can make hallways, entryways, or bathrooms feel twice the size.
Where to use them:
Behind a dining room sideboard
At the end of a hallway
Across from a window to open up a view
Highlight Architectural Features
Want to draw attention to a great fireplace or stunning crown moulding?
Use a mirror to reflect it from across the room.
It doubles the visual impact and brings more rhythm to the space.
This also works well with layered lighting, another design strategy you can explore here.
Use Mirrors as Art
A mirror doesn’t need to be a background player.
Let it take centre stage.
Choose pieces with a unique frame, shape, or patina to act as wall art in their own right.
Look for:
Arched or antique mirrors
Organic shapes or scalloped edges
Patinaed glass or statement scale
This works beautifully in gallery walls or over console tables, adding depth without cluttering your design.
Reflect the Best Parts of Your Room
Mirrors reflect whatever you put in front of them.
So give them something worth reflecting.
If you have a favourite corner, garden view, or well-styled moment in the room, place a mirror to echo it back.
It’s a subtle way to amplify beauty and create visual flow throughout the home.
Final Thoughts
Used well, mirrors don’t just reflect light – they reflect design intent.
They help your home feel larger, brighter, and more styled without overwhelming your space or budget.
Looking to create a calm and cohesive interior that balances natural light, gentle hues, and layered textures? Don’t miss our blog on designing with soft neutrals.
And if you’re renovating a kitchen, see how we used light, layout, and original details to transform this mid-century bungalow – without a full gut job.
“I believe that if you are true to expressing yourself, coupled with the right amount of discipline and routine, your space can reflect your personality, and you can turn your home into your haven.”
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