Tips for Using Mirrors to Expand Small Rooms

So mirrors won’t actually make your room larger, but you might be amazed at the transformation that can result after you add mirrors in a small room.

Why Mirrors

Obviously mirrors reflect. That’s why we love them and that’s one way they make a room look larger. What many people don’t realize is how mirrors add light to the room by reflecting around the available light. This can make a huge difference how open a room seems, even in a room that doesn’t seem dark.

Our eyes are naturally drawn to seek the end of something. Whether it’s the end of the yellow brick road or the end of your living room, this is where our eyes are likely to end up. If you live in a wee flat, it can be difficult enough to fit your furniture so that your living space doesn’t look like a rummage sale. Even large homes often have bathrooms and bedrooms that feel a bit claustrophobic. There are a number of ways to use mirrors to correct that.

Mirrored Walls

In bedrooms replacing closet doors with mirrored doors can expand the space while making it easier for you to double-check your attire. In the living room a floor to ceiling section of mirrors can be placed behind the couch to add depth. Even add a small section of mirrors behind a chair or near a corner can add a focal point to the room and visually expand the space. Bathrooms are ideal locations for adding a mirrored wall behind the tub, over the sink, or along any open wall space. Medicine cabinets can be used to add functional storage and the benefits of a mirrored surface.

If you’re living in a rental flat or don’t want to go to the expense of installing mirrors, consider purchasing a floorstanding mirror. These can be strategically placed in a room to a sense of greater space. Floorstanding mirrors also have the advantage that they can easily be rearranged like furniture and transported with you if you move.

Mirrors as Artwork

A mirror as a statement piece over a fireplace or couch is a classic for a reason. While visually expanding the space, the frame of an over mantle mirror adds a nice design element to the room. Holiday decorations have extra pop when placed in front of a mirror over the fireplace. Candles reflect back adding a warm illumination to the room.

Another option is an arrangement of mirrors over the fireplace, dining table, or couch. Antique markets are a great place to find a fun assortment of mirrors. Group different shapes and sizes together to make a focal point for your room and a touch of shabby chic.

Mirrors as Furniture

For an unexpected twist, try adding a piece of mirrored furniture. Functional and stylish, a small piece of mirrored furniture can have a surprising impact on the whole room. While mirrored bedroom side tables and dressers have long been in fashion, a mirrored sideboard can add much-needed storage. Mirrored furniture can make the room seem less crowded while visually adding light and space.

If you’re like many of us and living in an older building that lacks build-in closets, a mirrored wardrobe could be the solution. While a conventional wardrobe can appear to tower over the rest of the room and provide an undesirable vocal point, a mirrored wardroom could be the solution you need.

“Hidden” Mirrors

Placing mirrors behind open shelving is another great way to visually expand your space. With books or other items in front, the mirrored effect is less obvious while still helping the room seem more open. Even placing mirrors in a corner behind a plant or piece of furniture is a subtle but effective way to open up the room. For even more drama, place a mirror behind a lamp to help spread warm lighting.

Mirror Placement

To get the most impact while decorating with mirrors, carefully consider placement. Adding a mirror near a window may more effectively capture light to send it around the room. If your room has non-symmetrical window placement, try placing a mirror of the same size as a window on the opposite wall to more the room appear more balanced. A mirror placed at the top or bottom of a staircase may help the stairway seem more inviting.

Don’t be afraid to play around with mirrors and lighting to help make your small space seem more like home. Small touches may be particularly important when winter weather keeps us indoors and the shorter days make indoor lighting more challenging.