Buyer’s guide to mirrors

mirrors
Get more light with a mirror
© Graham and Green

Create extra light with mirrors. They're experiencing a renaissance – not just for vanity purposes, but as decorative pieces in themselves. Here's how to use them for best effect in your home. Shop the UK's largest selection of mirrors >

1. Reflected light

There's no better way of adding a bit of old–school glamour to a room than with a large, statement mirror. Position a moderate sized one above a mantelpiece or for maximum impact, lean a massive, floor–standing one against the wall. We adore these Multi faceted mirrors from Graham and Green. The faceted surface bounces light around the room and creates a real focal point.

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    2. Bold is beautiful

    When it comes to choosing that perfect mirror, don't shy away from eye-catching designs. Treat it like a work of art which is decorative as well as functional. Opt for opulence with this stunning black glass venetian mirror from Ivory Pearl Interiors. Collections of mirrors make an interesting alternative to art. Start with a large mirror and place smaller ones around it for an eclectic mosaic effect.

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    3. Know no limits

    Who says mirrors are just for walls? Reflective furniture can add a whole new dimension to a room, creating light and a sense of space. This Astoria Mirrored Half Moon Console Table from John Lewis is girlishly pretty and simultaneously unobtrusive. 'Do be aware of what you are reflecting though, and where you placing a mirror,' warns Jamie Green, partner at Graham & Green. 'Reflect something beautiful such as a chandelier rather than huge piles of clutter!'

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    4. Frou frou

    For a super-girlie theme, start with a really extravagant mirror. This Sienna Mirror from Ivory Pearl Interiors is not for minimalist fans but will certainly set the tone for frills and flounces. Boudoir chic is back with a bang.

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    5. Lighten up

    'In narrow or dark spaces, mirrors are an ideal way to maximise available light and increase a sense of space,' says Bailess. Position cleverly, such as opposite windows for best effect. This Long Island Solid Oak Large Mirror from The Furniture Barn is large enough to reflect even the most imposing of indoor spaces.

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    6. Into the green

    Strategically placed mirrors in the garden create an impression of space and transform a bland area into something quirky and magical. Suspend from trees for twinkly interest, place under planters and pots for depth or hang on garden walls to draw the eye to an illusory secret garden beyond. Have fun with this Illusion window mirror with shutters from Crocus.

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    7. Spacially savvy

    'Used to fully clad a wall in a small room, mirrors immediately double the space visually. This is especially effective if you put half–moon or narrow console tables against it – they become full circles or larger tables in the mirror,' says Adrienne Chinn, of Adrienne Chinn Design Company. We love this Set of Two Round Mirrored Boxes, from Laura Ashley. Double up your ornaments for a spectacular spacial illusion.

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    8. Funky not functional

    Mirrors don’t need to be purely functional. 'Pick interesting shapes' says Julia Ritzenthaler, founder of boutique furniture store, UniqueVanities.com. 'Square is good, but unusually–shaped mirrors can add extra interest to a room.' Dressing will never be dull with this Buddha Mirror from Sendmeamirror.com.

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    9. Vamp up with vintage

    According to Jane Bailess from John Lewis, 'The key trends for 2008 are plain or smoked glass mirrors, with a move away from formal or elaborate frames.' This Art Deco Overmantle Mirror from John Lewis is an unusual yet super stylish take on a timeless classic. Just as à la mode today as it was in the 1920s.

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    10. Colourful co–ordination

    When choosing a mirror, it's crucial to take colour into consideration. 'You have to know what room the wall mirror will be hung in and what style of mirror will match up with the theme of the room,' stresses Joe Tobiasz, creator of Wall–Decor–Concepts.com. This stylish Berkeley Mirror from Hyde House Designs is the perfect solution for those who only think in black and white.

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lisa kate clayton

lisa kate clayton

Posted | 7th August 2009

Stunning mirrors !

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