Zhejiang Huada Craft Factory

Using mirrors to decorate your home is a very clever way to change the atmosphere in a space while adding a bit of visual excitement and panache. But it can be difficult to pick the right one with so many styles, colors and shapes to choose from.

A smart way to narrow down your many options is to first figure out why you want to hang a mirror. Mirrors have the ability to define and highlight what already exists in the room.

Placing a gorgeous mirror on the wall can be a real asset when decorating a room. Because mirrors reflect light, they naturally help brighten and enlarge even the darkest and smallest of rooms in order to make them more inviting and spacious. A beautiful wall mirror can add a special decorative touch to the space and create an interesting focal point as well. The key, however, is to choose the ideal mirror for the look you’re going for. Also, keep in mind that great design is always in the details, which includes everything from the trim on your decorative pillows to your sliding door hardware.

Overall, the most important aspects to think about when choosing mirrors are style, size, shape and color. Here’s what you need to consider.

1. Style

Some mirrors lack frames. Therefore it’s up to their unique shape or size to create a presence in the room. However, when shopping for a framed mirror look for one that has a style so awesome that it creates a statement all on its own. For a streamlined look, choose a basic wooden, plastic or metal frame. For a more dramatic and formal look, choose an ornate mirror with a gilded frame to create a strong focal point. Mosaic-style frames with different tile patterns will immediately catch your eye when you enter the room.

2. Size

Another important aspect to consider when choosing a mirror is the size. This is crucial and will be influenced by a number of factors, including the size of the actual wall it’s going to hang on and how big of an impact you want your mirror to make in the space.

If you want to hang a mirror on an especially large wall in your dining room, living room or bedroom in order to make a big impact, then choose a relatively large mirror as well – at least 3 ft. across. If you just want to use a mirror to accent a small area on the wall close to your entryway, hanging one that measures around 10 inches should suffice. Determine how much space you have to work with by measuring the wall where you want to hang the mirror.

3. Shape

Rectangular and square are the most common shapes for mirrors, but they come in a variety of different shapes. Square and rectangular-shaped mirrors provide a more traditional look. But if you want to attract a great deal of attention to your mirror, choose one with an unusual or bizarre shape. To create a striking but simple look, choose an oval or circular mirror. Add a touch of whimsy or quirkiness with a funky diamond or triangle-shaped mirror. Use a big starburst-shaped mirror to catch the eye if you really want to make a huge design statement in your decor.

4. Color

If your mirror has an attractive decorative frame, pick one with a color that perfectly coordinates with the decor of the room. A basic white, black or wood frame will easily complement almost any design. Rich gilded metals such as silver or gold add panache and luxury that’s more favorable for a modern or formal decor style. If your mirror has a colored frame, make sure the color enhances the other colors in the space rather than ‘clashing’ with them or matching them too much. Just choose a colored frame that highlights the other elements in the room for a finished look. If you’re having a hard time choosing, natural wood frames will work in virtually any room and style.