How to find them, buy them, & place them + the ways to maximize their effect in your home!
Nothing beats a mirror for refreshing a space or adding sparkle to a room which is why mirrors of all shapes and sizes are an important staple of decorating. They can be a focal point of a room, increase the glamour factor, or be strategically placed to make a space feel larger, brighter or more modern and of course interesting.
I am always in favor of placing an interesting mirror in every room. My clients all know that mirrors are a very important part of design. Changing out a mirror can be a fun way to mix up a space.
In an urban dwelling with smaller spaces, we are always selecting mirrors to give the optical illusion of making things look larger and reflecting the light and the interesting details such as the chandelier, art work, furniture, accessories and colors.
But many people aren’t sure where to start. Here are tips about where to look for mirrors, where to place them, and how to maximize their effect.
Getting Started
Focus on the shape and the frame when shopping. Popular frame materials include metal, wood, plaster, and leather. Then find a retailer that fits your budget. The designers I like to suggest are CB2, RH, Serena & Lily, Crate & Barrel, West Elm, HomeGoods and Wayfair as good sources.
New mirrors can be big-ticket, budget-busting items. We often recommend flea markets, thrift shops and local auctions as sources for vintage mirrors. Keep an eye out for old frames with character that can easily be fitted at a local glass shop to create a statement piece.
I suggest you Google 1stDibs for vintage mirrors. I also recommend attending real estate sales, where you can find high-quality pieces at good prices. Chunky vintage picture frames are ideal for reuse as mirror frames.
