We love beautiful artwork over here at The Home Studio. Not that we in any way consider ourselves art aficionados, but we truly appreciate the power and beauty of artwork in interior design. But as many of you already know, artwork – especially the large oversized pieces that we covet – is expensive. Like really expensive!
So what’s a girl (or guy) to do? We recently came across a discussion that mirrors are better than art, and while we don’t totally agree, we are 100% on board with the power of using mirrors in place of artwork.
Think about it. We all know that mirrors can be striking and bold in their own right, especially these days with custom finishes, beautiful shapes and deep frame options. They reflect light around a space, they make a room look bigger – and they make a room look considered. Like it is finished.
As though you have spent all the time in the world choosing and placing that item there. Not as though it is a second place, runner up choice because either your budget didn’t stretch that far, or because you really can’t be bothered to put up a gallery wall. And most of the time, they are a lot more affordable than artwork.
So how do you make mirrors work instead of artwork?
Visual Tricks
The fantastic thing about mirrors is that they can perform visual tricks. By placing them in a strategic place, they could act as another window by reflecting light and creating a beautiful viewpoint. This works extremely well in darker or smaller spaces by giving the illusion of extra light and space.
Images
Large Scale
Large, floor to ceiling mirrors that cover an entire wall will multiply the feeling of space and create a modern, clean look. A striking triple installation is really an art installation in its own right anyway.
Images Placement
When it comes to mirror placements there really are no rules. Centre, off-centre, high up the wall, on the floor… as long as they are reflecting what you would like to highlight, mirrors can be placed on sideboards, above beds or even leaning up against walls.
Remember that ultimately the mirror is part of the installation, so it’s about incorporating it into the design of the space as a whole.
Curved Edges
Mirrors with softer edges often contrast the more linear furnishings in the room and serve to soften the space. Curves are said to enhance creativity and give a more feminine touch to the space.
Gallery Wall
If one larger mirror is just not going to cut, try grouping mirrors of similar shape or style together in a cluster on the wall. This gives you a unique and interesting combination of reflections and really gives a space personality and interest.
