Mirrors are an interior design secret weapon when it comes to creating the illusion of space in small rooms. Knowing how to use mirrors to enlarge a room can transform even the smallest of spaces, making them feel brighter, airier, and more open. Whether you’re living in a compact apartment or simply want to make a small room look bigger, this guide walks you through what you need to know to make your room feel bigger using mirrors.
Why Mirrors Make a Room Look Bigger
Mirrors reflect light and images, creating the illusion of depth and space. When strategically placed, they reflect natural light, open up corners, and even duplicate entire sections of a room, making it feel significantly larger than it actually is.
Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Use Mirrors To Enlarge A Room
Here’s how you can use your mirrors to create the illusion of more space in any room in your home:
1. Place Mirrors Opposite Windows to Reflect Light
One of the easiest ways to make a room look larger is by placing a mirror directly opposite a window. This helps to maximize the natural light, making the room appear brighter and more spacious.
If you don’t have much natural light, position the mirror opposite an artificial light source, like a lamp to get a similar effect. You can also choose to add some light behind your mirror if there is no natural light, as this will also create the illusion of space by reflecting the light from around the mirror.
2. Use Large Mirrors for Maximum Impact
Bigger mirrors have a greater impact when it comes to making a room feel bigger. A large floor-to-ceiling mirror or a wide wall-mounted mirror creates the illusion that the room continues beyond the mirror, adding a sense of depth and openness.
Large mirrors are ideal for hiding flaws in walls, creating light and the illusion of space. Consider a full length mirror with an arched top to add style and personality to your mirror creating even more of a statement in your home.
3. Hang Mirrors Behind Furniture
Mirrors placed behind furniture, like a sofa or bed, give the impression of more space behind the furniture. It tricks the eye into thinking that the room extends further than it actually does.
For this method to work use a mirror that is large enough to reflect a good portion of the room but not so large that it overpowers the furniture. It should fit behind the item of furniture without large overhang.
4. Group Smaller Mirrors for a Stylish Touch
If you don’t want to commit to one large mirror, a cluster of smaller mirrors can also create an expansive effect while adding visual interest to the room. Grouping mirrors of different shapes and sizes together can make a wall look more dynamic and spacious.
Just remember to opt for mirrors in uneven numbers if they are of a unique shape. Choosing mirrors with unique frames can turn your arrangement into a statement piece in your room while still enhancing the room’s sense of space.
5. Position Mirrors Near Narrow Hallways or Doorways
Mirrors are particularly effective in small, narrow areas like hallways and doorways. Positioning a mirror at the end of a hallway can make it appear longer and more inviting.
Mirrors also make it feel brighter if there is limited light. By placing mirrors near entryways you will reflect light and make the area feel more open and welcoming as soon as you walk in. You’ll feel less enclosed and claustrophobic in these areas if there is a large mirror creating the illusion of a window and more space.
6. Place Mirrors on Closet Doors
If you’re trying to make a small bedroom appear larger, consider placing mirrors on closet doors. Mirrored closet doors reflect the room, creating the illusion of added space without taking up any additional room.
Sliding mirrored doors work are an even better option as they don’t require extra clearance like swinging doors, so you can save even more space.
Additional Tips for Using Mirrors to Enlarge a Room
Here are a few more tips to help you get the best mirrors to make your small spaces feel bigger:
- Use frameless mirrors: Frameless mirrors blend seamlessly into walls and create a continuous, unobstructed view. This helps enhance the illusion of more space. They also take up less space because they do not have a frame, and will fit well whatever décor you choose.
- Reflect artwork: Place mirrors across from your favorite artwork or decor. This adds layers to the room’s design while making it feel more spacious.
- Don’t overcrowd the room: While mirrors can make a room feel bigger, too many other elements can still make it feel cluttered. Keep furniture minimal to complement the mirror’s effect.
FAQs About Using Mirrors in Small Spaces
Can mirrors make a small room look bigger?
Yes, mirrors are one of the best ways to make a small room appear bigger. By reflecting light and creating the illusion of depth, they can trick the eye into thinking the space is much larger than it is.
What kind of mirror works best for enlarging a room?
Large mirrors, especially floor-to-ceiling or wall-sized mirrors, work best for enlarging a room. However, smaller mirrors grouped together can also create a similar effect.
Where should I place mirrors to make my room look bigger?
The best places to position mirrors to make your room feel larger include: opposite windows, behind furniture, and at the ends of narrow hallways. Reflecting light sources and visually opening-up corners also works well.
Conclusion
Learning how to use mirrors to enlarge a room makes a huge difference when decorating small spaces. By placing mirrors strategically, you can completely transform a room that feels small and cramped into one that feels airy and expansive. Try experimenting with different placements and mirror sizes to see what works best for your space. Why not try it out at home today?
