The wall of mirrors in our feature photograph shows just how dramatic a simple mirror can be when grouped together in a large display. Affordable mirrors can create a fantastic focal wall in any room. Any one of these mirrors on its own is quite plain but there is safety and beauty in numbers in this particular instance.
Large, ornately framed mirrors can be expensive but places such as IKEA, dollar stores and thrift stores carry inexpensive mirrors that can be used in a grouping, similar to the one in our feature photograph. Whether you use varying shapes and sizes, (which is what you may end up with if you go the thrift store route), or purchase matching mirrors, you can create a stunning display. You may choose to paint the frames of your mismatched mirrors in the same colour to provide a cohesive look or leave them in an array of fun colours for a more eclectic display. Varying shapes and sizes of framed or unframed mirrors can also create a unique look.
Mirrors are a great decor enhancer. They can help bring light into gloomy spaces and make small spaces feel open. These reflective beauties come in an array of styles and shapes, which makes them a versatile decor accent. Choices in mirrors range from the traditional framed mirror for over the sofa to mirror-like wall decals that are pre-cut into various shapes. Even mirror-clad furniture can add tons of drama and bling to your decor.
Use mirrors on dresser tops as jewelry trays or under a table centerpiece. A mirror placed under a grouping of candles can double the reflective quality and provide ambient lighting for dinner parties. Install affordable mirrored tiles on the ceiling of closets or high kitchen cupboards so you can see what's on the top shelf without having to climb on a ladder. Freestanding cheval mirrors are a great furniture addition to the master bedroom and don't have to be mounted on the wall, which makes them perfect if you're renting. Frameless mirror sets come in a variety of shapes that can enhance and brighten your entryway. You can find mirror sets in all sorts of designs like varying sized circles, long wavy strips or in fun shapes like a hand mirror or chandelier. For a child's room, reflective wall decals like butterflies or ceiling stars can add a sense of whimsy. Mirrors framed in mirror are a glamourous touch for the bathroom or master retreat.
Decor projects
Use mirrored tiles in lieu of windowpanes in an old wooden window and hang as a faux window. This can be a great asset in a windowless kitchen or bathroom or even in a basement rec room.
Breathe new life into a dated mirror by painting the frame in a fresh, new colour. Change the look entirely by adorning the frame with items like seashells, beads or braided rope.
Update a boring interior slab door by creating a faux French door using mirrored tiles and wooden moulding.
Mirror the inside back of bookshelves or entertainment units to give them a new look and a reflective quality.
Change the look of the actual mirror by adhering mirror stencils that have the look of a sandblasted design. These products are often peel-and-stick and removable so they won't damage the mirror. You could also purchase a mirror antiquing kit to give mirrors an aged look. This is a permanent change so practise on an inexpensive mirror before you consider this technique on furniture or larger mirrors.
Consider adding mirrors to the plain doors of wardrobes or pantries to give them the look of having glass doors. You might even consider this technique on a center or focal cabinet in the kitchen.
Have mirrors cut to cover, protect and jazz up the tops of accent tables, dressers and buffets.
If you happen to have a broken or cracked mirror you may be able to remedy the issue by adorning the mirror with items or projects mentioned above that will cover the crack or break. There are also interesting broken mirror projects on the Internet that make use of small, mirrored pieces in unique ways. The net is full of great project ideas for turning inexpensive mirrors into eye-catching décor accents.
If you have to cut mirrors for your project be sure to think safety first and wear the proper protective gear. I try to work with the sizes I have to avoid having to cut any type of glass. You can also get glass/mirrors cut by taking them to a professional glass company if you're not comfortable doing it yourself.
Reflect on how you can enhance your decor by bringing in some decorative mirrors. You'd be surprised how easy and affordable it can be to add a little bling to your space.
connieoliver@shaw.ca
