4 Considerations When Choosing the Right Vanity Mirror for Your Space

A mirror is such a light touch to any design. Most people don’t pay them too much attention, but mirrors can get the wrong type of attention when improperly handled. For anyone looking to add a new vanity to a space, here are some things to think about that will help you choose just the right mirror.

1. Mirror Size

The size of vanity mirrors make a huge difference in how they are perceived. It’s a good idea to select a mirror that is proportionate to the space. A full length floor mirror won’t work very well in a small powder room. When hanging a mirror over a piece of furniture, it’s preferable that it be smaller than the piece of furniture. When using mirrors to create a more open and bright space, leave some inches of wall visible for the best effect. Double bathroom vanities can have one large mirror or two smaller mirrors. The choice is totally yours.

2. Mirror Shape

There are tons of shapes to choose from. Oval, square, geometric and abstract are just some of the options available. When choosing a shape consider the size of the space and the style of the room. When hung over furniture, mirrors with unconventional shapes are an excellent choice. They add more interest and accent the piece beautifully. In a bathroom, take into account the positioning and size of the lighting as well. The ceiling height and placement of light fixtures will dictate your options.

3. Mirror Style

Choosing a mirror style will depend largely on the theme and style of the room. It will also depend on the items that are around it. It’s a no-brainer to pair a classic mirror with a classic motif, but it can be really fun and intriguing to mix styles a little. A modern mirror paired with a traditional chest of drawers can create a stunning contrast that just works. And a minimalist look could benefit from an ornate mirror with fleur de lis or floral applique.

4. Mirror Grade

Think about where the mirror will hang. The grade of the mirror probably doesn’t matter so much in a living room or hall, but a mirror in a bathroom or a boudoir vanity needs to be properly graded. Bathroom mirrors should be resistant to mold as there will undoubtedly be lots of humidity. This means it’s bathroom grade. Some of the grading that you’ll see applied to mirrors include shatterproof; plated, not painted; and bath rated. Of course, these graded mirrors can go anywhere in your home, but they’re definitely safe for bathroom vanity use.

Home decor can seem like a huge undertaking, but when you know a few key design principles, things will go a lot more smoothly. There’s a lot of things that can be done with mirrors to jazz up any design. Whether it’s purely for function or more of an aesthetic element, a mirror can play many roles.