Wall Mirrors Placement Dos and Don’ts for Better Interior Styling

A room rarely feels complete without a wall mirror. When you walk into a room, the furniture is great and the colours work, but it’s missing that final piece - that well-placed mirror. It’s the underrated accent piece of interior design - capable of making a room feel bigger, brighter, and more balanced - without knocking down a single wall. 

The best way you can manipulate space is to use a mirror while styling your interior. It changes the way you see space, adding depth and making a room feel bigger. But mirrors aren’t just for illusions - modern wall mirrors also make a statement, adding style to any interior. Whether minimal and simple or bold and decorative, they’re a must-have for interior styling.

But before you start hanging them up like it’s a hall of mirrors at a carnival, let’s talk strategy. If you're on the hunt for the perfect piece, furniture stores Canberra have plenty of options—but placement is just as important as the mirror itself. Here are the do’s and don’ts to make sure your reflections are working for you—not against you.

The Dos of Wall Mirror Placement

Mirrors aren’t just for last-minute outfit checks - they can seriously redefine your interiors when used right. Here’s how to make the most of them.

Use Mirrors to Open Up Small Spaces

Ever walked into a poky room and wished it had just a bit more breathing room? Go for a mirror, a simple but powerful trick to create the illusion of space.

Narrow entryways benefit hugely from a well-placed hallway mirror. By bouncing light around and reflecting depth, a mirror makes a space feel airier. The best placement? Opposite a window or along a long corridor to extend the sightline.

Reflect Something Worth Looking At

Mirrors reflect everything - the good, the bad, and the laundry pile you swore you’d fold yesterday. That’s why positioning is key.

Instead of hanging a mirror randomly, think about what it’s reflecting. A lush indoor plant, a statement pendant light, or a piece of artwork? Yes, please. A blank wall or a cluttered bench? Hard pass.

Consider the Shape & Frame

A mirror’s shape and frame aren’t just design choices - they dictate the mood of a space. Round wall mirrors soften sharp edges and bring a sense of balance, making them a go-to for contemporary and minimalist interiors.

Want something with a bit more structure? Arched, oval, and geometric mirrors give a sculptural edge, while framed mirrors can either make a statement or subtly blend into their surroundings.

Get Creative with Positioning

Mirrors don’t have to be hung up. Leaning a full-length mirror against a wall creates a laid-back vibe while giving you the flexibility to move it around.

Try layering a mirror with artwork, placing one on a gallery wall, or using a collection of smaller mirrors to create a reflective feature. It’s all about experimenting with what works best for your space.

Use Mirrors to Increase Light

Got a dark, moody space that could use a little something? A silver wall mirror can help bounce light around, making the room feel brighter without adding extra lamps.

For best results, position it near a light source - whether it’s a pendant light, a floor lamp, or natural daylight. The reflection helps distribute light more evenly and softens shadows, creating a more inviting atmosphere.

The Don’ts of Wall Mirror Placement

Mistakes? We’ve all made them. Avoid these common mirror placement blunders to keep your interiors looking stylish, not chaotic.

Don’t Hang a Mirror Without Checking the Reflection

It might seem obvious, but it’s shocking how many people slap a mirror on a wall without thinking about what it’s reflecting.

A mirror facing an open-plan kitchen can highlight mess, and one reflecting a plain white wall isn’t exactly inspiring. Always do a quick check before committing to placement - what’s in the reflection should refine the room, not detract from it.

Don’t Just Stick It Above the Fireplace

Hanging a gold mirror above the fireplace might feel like a no-brainer, it’s a classic look, right? But it doesn’t always work.

A mirror above a fireplace can sometimes reflect just the ceiling, which isn’t the most exciting view. Instead, consider flanking the fireplace with mirrors on either side or placing one on a nearby wall to create depth without defaulting to tradition.

Don’t Overdo It

There’s a fine line between well-placed mirrors and turning your home into a house of illusions.

One statement mirror per room? Chic. Mirrors bouncing off each other at every angle? Feels a bit like a funhouse. Be strategic and avoid mirror overload - your home should feel cohesive, not like it’s straight out of a circus.

Don’t Be Afraid of Big Mirrors

Ever hesitated to go for a larger mirror because you thought it might overwhelm the space? Don’t.

A beveled mirror in a full-length or oversized design can actually make a room feel more expansive. Bigger mirrors offer bigger impact, and if you’re unsure, leaning one against the wall rather than hanging it can make it feel more relaxed and intentional.

Don’t Ignore Proportion

A tiny mirror on a huge wall? Looks lost. A massive mirror crammed into a small space? Feels overwhelming.

Balance is key - choose a mirror that complements the scale of the room. If your wall is large, go big or create a grouping. If it’s small, opt for a mirror that complements the space without swallowing it.

Used well, decorative wall mirrors can work wonders in your home - expanding space, brightening dark corners, and adding serious style points. Stick to these do’s and don’ts, and you’ll avoid the common pitfalls while making the most of your reflections.

Looking for the perfect mirror to fit your space? Marco Furniture has an incredible range of stylish options, from modern designs to classic framed pieces. Check out their collection and find a mirror that fits your style (and your walls) perfectly.

FAQs

Are wall mirrors still in style?

Absolutely! Wall mirrors are a timeless decor choice that never really go out of style. While trends in shapes, frames, and finishes evolve, mirrors remain a go-to for adding light, depth, and character to a space. Right now, organic and asymmetrical mirrors, as well as vintage-inspired frames, are particularly popular.

How big should a mirror be on a wall?

The size of a mirror depends on the wall space and its purpose. A good rule of thumb is to keep it proportional - larger mirrors work well on big, empty walls, while smaller mirrors suit narrow spaces like hallways. If hanging above furniture, aim for a mirror that’s about two-thirds the width of the piece below it for a balanced look.

Do wall mirrors make a room look bigger?

Yes! Mirrors reflect light and create the illusion of more space, making rooms feel larger and airier. For the best effect, place a mirror across from a window or light source to maximise natural brightness and depth.

Where should we not place wall mirrors?

Avoid placing mirrors where they reflect clutter, awkward angles, or unflattering views. Mirrors directly facing a bed can feel unsettling for some, and placing them opposite a messy area (like an overflowing bookshelf or laundry pile) can double the visual chaos. Also, be mindful of placing mirrors where they might create glare from direct sunlight.

Are beveled mirrors out of style?

Not at all! Beveled mirrors still have their place in modern interiors, especially in classic and transitional styles. While minimalist designs may favour frameless options, beveled edges add subtle detail that works beautifully in both contemporary and traditional spaces.