Did you know that modern-day mirrors actually originated in 1835?
This was the year when Justus von Liebig, a German chemist, found a way to apply an incredibly thin layer of metallic silver onto a sheet of clear glass. It was the first time anyone made anything like the mirrors we know and love today.
Since then, mirrors have cemented their place in the world of interior design. From stylish offices to dining rooms around the world, you can find a mirror in almost every building you visit!
But, what’s so important about mirrors in interior design, and what could they add to your interiors?
Create an Illusion
One of the main arguments for using mirrors in interior design is the fact that they create an illusion. We’re not talking about making people see double or conjuring up things that aren’t there; mirrors actually create the quite simple illusion of more space. Although as an illusion it’s not that impressive, in the world of interior design making a room look bigger is as good as magic!
If you’re working with a small space, a mirror can help open it up and add depth. Give it a go and see what it does for your interior.
Let the Light In
Clever mirror work in interior design can make rooms not only look bigger, but brighter too. Let the light in my placing your mirror near or opposite a window, helping maximize the amount of natural light in your room. No matter how gray it is outside, your mirror will reflect any light there is and help brighten your rooms.
If you’re wondering how to use mirrors in interior design, a lot of designers opt for mirror walls in dark spaces, such as walk-in-closets. Just like natural light, the artificial lights in these rooms will bounce off the mirrors, making the space seem much better lit than it actually is.
If you’re going for a more ambient vibe, mirrors can help. By placing candles in front of your frame or angling it to reflect a fireplace, you can make them more of a statement piece. Their flickers will be reflected in the mirror, creating double the effect!
Add a Statement Center Piece
When it comes to the best ways to use mirrors in interior design, a lot of designers opt to make them a feature piece. Rather than hiding your mirrors in the corner, make sure they stand out. In large rooms, an oversized mirror can create a grand, modern look.
If you’re working with a smaller space, you can still opt for large mirrors, but stick to frameless options. These are incredibly stylish and won’t lead to your room feeling cluttered, and you’ll still get the space-illusion benefits we mentioned earlier.
Bathrooms are one of the spaces that can benefit the most from a statement mirror. Not only do these serve a practical use when getting ready, but they can also lift a dull space, adding a luxurious feel to the room. Wall-mounted mirrors are best for bathrooms and many designers like to add additional lighting to help them suit their purpose and create a contemporary look.
If you have a large bathroom, a wall-length, rectangular mirror is a great option. Or, why not create a more unique look by having a set of many smaller mirrors? Play around with ideas to see what works best in your space.
Hide Small Imperfections
Mirrors are a saving grace if you’re struggling with wall imperfections. From cracks to peeling paint, the right mirror can hide pretty much any problem! If you don’t have the funds or time to fix the issue and it won’t become more of a problem over time, a mirror is a perfect cover-up.
Remember, too, that no mirror is ever too big as long as you have the wall space for it! If you’re dealing with a large area of paint damage, an even larger mirror will cover it up without looking out of place.
Have Fun With Shapes
For some people, a well-designed mirror can have the same eye-catching effect as a painting or photograph hung on the wall. It’s a design feature, so let it stand out! Play around with the shapes of mirrors available, using circular designs for an ultra-modern look and abstract shapes for something a little more fun.
There are also plenty of options when it comes to frames, helping mirrors become a work of art in their own right. For a grand dining room, an ornately carved, gold frame is perfect for a touch of sophistication. In the bedroom, keep things casual with a simple wooden frame, leaning your mirror against the wall for laid-back chic.
A brilliant way to make an art piece out of mirrors is by having more than one. Place the biggest one at the back, leaning it against a wall, propping the medium-sized frame in front, and finishing with the smallest. This is such a simple way to add a bespoke feel to a room, creating a center-piece for your space in an instant!
Play Around With Mirrors in Interior Design
There’s no arguing the importance of mirrors in interior design. Any qualified designer will tell you that they can draw a room together, creating an impact that other furnishings just don’t.
If you’re missing out on mirrors in your home, Cut Rate Glass are here to help. We can design and install bespoke, wall-mounted mirrors to liven up your spaces and add that finishing touch your room has been missing. If you’d like to find out more, feel free to get in touch with our team today!