For the home decorator, nothing works harder, comes to the rescue, or adds that unique “voila!” to a room like a well-placed mirror.

Like the classic “little black dress,” mirrors are a refreshing but versatile decorating option, perfect for a wide range of practical, architectural, decorative or artistic challenges. Whether you want to dress up a room with added elegance or soften it with casual warmth, address last-minute special touches, or satisfy a seasonal impulse to freshen and revitalize, mirrors are a decorative mainstay.

The Survey Says…Mirrors Are In Vogue

Attesting to the growing popularity of mirrors in home décor trends, a 2007 study conducted by www.homeaccentstoday.com found that mirrors represent between a fifth and a third of home accent, gift and furniture retailer offerings. Moreover, the same research found that these retailers equally represented a range of mirror styles—from traditional to transitional to contemporary—in their lines.

Simultaneously, home décor publications continue to tout the flexibility, creativity and artistry as well as the practical problem-solving mirrors bring to the design palette. It’s therefore no surprise, but inspiring to see mirrors turning up in spaces and places formerly void of interest or reserved for more traditional, and sometimes predictable accents like sconces, hanging plates or even artwork. And, as cutting edge consumers catch on to the adaptability and stylistic panache of mirrors, companies such as La Barge are responding with increased choices and more novel options.

The Versatility of Mirrors

With so many choices in style, adornment, size, and shape, it is clearly short-sighted to think of mirrors as merely a buffet, foyer or mantle highlight. Articulate the look you want to achieve or the decorating challenge you want to overcome and then consider if a mirror might play a central part in your “shining” solution.

Mirrors from Every Angle

At the heart of decorating with mirrors is an important foundational rule. Mirrors are magical in their unparalleled ability to reflect beauty and light. And reflect they will. So, be sure to place mirrors intentionally to reflect the most appealing settings or items in your space.

There’s nothing more soothing or eye-catching than an attractive mirror showcasing a lush plant, a collection of silver, or a window with a garden view. On the contrary, nothing deflates a room more than the reflection of a messy kitchen sink, a dark, blank wall, or a peek into the powder room. So, first think, “What do I want to see from every angle?”

Making a Big Statement

Do you have a small room that you would like to appear larger? Consider adding floor-to-ceiling mirrors to lighten dark corners or on each side of a large architectural piece, such as a fireplace.

A life-size mirror makes a bold artistic statement and can “double” the perceived space of any room. Or, for focal point illumination, place a favorite mirror over a bed or, as appropriate to the room in space and size, between windows to add depth to the space.

The LaBarge hand carved floral mirror (LM2278), shown above, could work beautifully in these and in any number of spaces in need of a highlight.

Reflections on Collections, Layering and Novel Approaches

Think “collections” to add interest to a drab wall. Imagine a once uninspiring hallway or office wall now enhanced by an assortment of mirrors in different shapes and sizes, and framed in the same medium (wood, metal, lacquered) but with varying textures. This same approach can be executed beautifully with small easels on a mantle or side table.

Many decorators love the fanciful technique of layering mirror on mirror in guest baths and powder rooms to create an elegant, “otherworldly” aura. Don’t be afraid to hang ornately framed mirrors on mounted bathroom mirrors. This approach is beautifully elegant when antiqued or bronze-tinted mirrors are incorporated. The LaBarge beveled edge hand carved Mediterranean reproduction (LM2266) is perfect for this styling.

It’s difficult to break old habits, but resist the instinct to hang all mirrors mid-level. A large mirror hung low to the floor can reflect a lovely setting like a piano, piece of art or sitting area. This technique can add symmetry, balance and depth, and at times, artistic detail.

Finally, think beyond the wall or tabletop. Mirrored surfaces, especially in smaller occasional pieces, such as La Barge’s Baroque styled cocktail table with beveled antique glass (LT7400) or a hand carved cocktail table with inset glass and scrolling, floral motifs (LT6751), reflect the lustrous elegance of a bygone era.

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