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Mirrors: The Under-Appreciated Home Decorating Tool

Posted by Eric Morgan on 20th Jul 2014

Often taken for granted, most people do not consider mirrors to be a necessary decorating tool in interior design. Contrary to this notion, mirrors are a valuable, must-have addition to any home. Reflecting light, adding focal points and even serving as pieces of artwork, mirrors are one of the most versatile home accessories.

The following highlights the best types of mirrors to put in different areas of homes.

  • Bathrooms and Entries – These mirrors are specific, allowing people to check their reflections and make last minute touch-ups. These mirrors are generally for practical purposes and reflect simple framed mirror designs.
  • Aesthetic – It is important for people to choose aesthetically pleasing wall mirrors. Choosing the latest trend or fashion may not create an inviting home environment for some homeowners. It is best to blend select trendsetting designs that are also visually appealing to the senses, helping create a warm, inviting home atmosphere or office space.
  • Placement – Mirrors require strategic placement, whether it is masking imperfections, creating the illusion of additional space or adding more light to areas that suffer from insufficient, poor natural illumination. Strategically placed, mirrors are designers’ ultimate flaw hiders.
  • Problem Solving – Mirrors are a creative solution to many common household-decorating problems. Whether it is creating the illusion of space by adding them to the fronts of furniture or cabinets, or hanging them on the wall, mirrors are the ultimate design tools.
  • Walls – To create instant depth, opt for custom mirrors in large panel sections that will cover an entire living or dining wall area. This style of decorating can be difficult, but using square or rectangular shapes are ideal for opening up spaces.
  • Furniture – Reminiscent of the 1950s and 1960s forward-thinking style and architecture, mirrored furniture is portable and offers a contemporary vintage vibe. Mirrored nightstands are especially popular, reflecting tableside’s lights upwards and casting an attractive glow. Some beauty experts even swear by the trick of applying makeup over a mirror, saying it makes it easier to see flaws and practice effective coverage techniques.
  • Hanging Mirrors – When hanging mirrors it is important to consider the reflection. Some mirrors look best placed higher on the wall and closer to the ceiling, such as starburst mirrors. Consider reflections, avoiding clutter and focusing on attractive, multihued layouts or views. Always adjust mirrors before hanging to see what angle attracts the most light. This may vary depending upon the time of day so it may take a day of different hourly light conditions to determine proper wall mirror placement.
  • Hangers – Instead of traditional wire, mirrors hang with two hangers. Wire sometimes causes mirrors to float, which can distort perspective and reflections.
  • Dining Room – Mirrors look stunning in dining room areas, reflecting chandeliers, attractive centerpieces and lit candles. If chandelier lights are too bright, consider purchasing chandelier shades to help minimize lighting conditions.

Clearing clutter also helps focus on modern mirror frames’ placements, without detracting from coordinating home décor.

References:

http://www.myhomeideas.com/decorating/design-ideas/decorating-with-mirrors/aesthetic-appeal