A well-placed mirror can transform an interior space in unimaginable ways. Small rooms instantly look larger and gloomy corners glow with natural light.
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Katherine Stanley of Cooper & Co says mirrors are often treated purely as decorative pieces, but they're one of the most effective tools when it comes to interior styling.
Tinker with position
"Angle your mirror opposite a light source such as a window or floor lamp," Katherine says.
"This draws and bounces natural light around the room, brightening it and making it feel more spacious. Mirrors placed with intention do more than just decorate; they also serve a functional purpose by amplifying light and creating a welcoming, airy atmosphere."
Play with height
Katherine says don't feel you're limited to hanging a mirror at eye level, or feel you have to keep it centred.
You can adjust the mirror to highlight key features in the room and to create visual interest.
Lean a full-length mirror against a wall at a slight angle, or place it in a corner to add depth - making ceilings appear taller and the space feel more expansive.
Facing with focus
Mirrors placed with intention do more than just decorate; they also serve a functional purpose by amplifying light and creating a welcoming, airy atmosphere.
- Katherine Stanley, Cooper & Co
Highlight the room's best feature or most interesting focal point. "Direct mirror reflections to face artworks, plants or interesting architectural features to bring personality and add dynamism to the room," Katherine says.
"Avoid facing the mirror to reflect uninteresting walls or cluttered areas, as this will only make the space feel chaotic, cramped or distracting."
Test with tape
A well-proportioned mirror can dramatically make a room feel balanced and cohesive without competing with the space.
If a mirror is too small, it can get lost on the wall, leaving the room feeling disjointed and unresolved.
But too large, and it risks overpowering the space, disrupting flow and dominating the surrounding furniture and decor.
"Before committing to a style and size, a simple rule of thumb is to use masking tape to outline different mirror dimensions on the wall," Katherine says.
"This gives you a true sense of how the mirror will look and fit within the existing space."
Mirrors with flair
Katherine says there is a shifting trend in the style of mirrors being selected.
Rectangular mirrors have declined in popularity, arches remain bestsellers, ornamental and organic-shaped mirrors are also in demand.
"Instead of defaulting to a standard rectangular mirror or a style that blends into the wall, don't be afraid to choose decorative mirrors that stand out, and place them where they can make the most impact.
Prop them on a console, above a mantel or in a spot that feels visually empty," Katherine says.
"This lets the mirror act as a centrepiece, drawing the eye further into the space and ultimately transforming the feel of the room."
