Mirrors Are One of the Most Versatile Design Tools in Any Home
A well-placed mirror can double the perceived size of a room, bounce natural light into a dark corner, and add a design feature that draws the eye. A poorly placed mirror can do the opposite. Before you choose a mirror for your home, here are five things worth thinking through.
1. Size Matters More Than You Think
The most common mistake homeowners make with mirrors is going too small. A mirror that’s too small for the wall looks like an afterthought. As a general rule, a mirror should fill at least two-thirds of the available wall space, or be sized to relate to the furniture below it (such as a console table or vanity).
For bathroom mirrors, the mirror should typically be as wide as your vanity, or close to it.
2. Think About What the Mirror Reflects
Before you fix the position, stand where the mirror will hang and look at what it will reflect. A mirror reflecting a window doubles the light — great. A mirror reflecting a cluttered corner doubles the clutter — not ideal. Position your mirror to reflect something beautiful: a view, a light source, or a well-styled part of the room.
3. Frameless vs Framed
Frameless mirrors suit contemporary and minimalist interiors. They read as clean and seamless, and work particularly well in bathrooms where they can run edge-to-edge above a vanity. Framed mirrors add warmth and character and can anchor a wall in a living space or bedroom.
4. Custom vs Off-the-Shelf
Off-the-shelf mirrors come in standard sizes that rarely perfectly fit your space. A custom-cut mirror — sized exactly to your wall, alcove, or vanity — always looks more intentional and considered. The price difference is often smaller than people expect, particularly for larger mirrors.
5. Professional Installation Matters
Large mirrors are heavy and unforgiving if not hung correctly. Professional installation ensures your mirror is level, properly fixed to the wall structure, and safe. For gym mirrors, dance studio walls, or any large-format mirror installation, professional fitting is essential.
Talk to Howick Glass
We supply and install custom mirrors throughout East Auckland — from bathroom vanity mirrors to full-wall dance and gym mirrors. Call 09 535 4180 or get in touch online.