One of the most important features of the bathroom is the bathroom mirror. Today there is such a wide range of styles, sizes, shapes, and functions to choose from, and the choices can be overwhelming. Yet, installing the right mirror for your particular bathroom can add dramatically to the overall design finish of the room. While the wrong mirror will minimize or flatten the bathroom’s design potential. So, how should one shop for a mirror to get the right look that also ensures function and beauty? Follow these insiders’ design secrets.
Determine Style
When choosing the perfect mirror for your bathroom, it’s important to avoid trial-and-error methods that can lead to costly mistakes. That’s why it’s important to take some time to research the different design styles available. You can start by grabbing a cup of coffee and browsing through design magazines and books at your local bookstore. You can also browse websites to explore the options from the comfort of your own home.
Once you’ve determined your preferred design style, you can start looking for specific characteristics that you want to include in your bathroom mirror. As you browse through different sizes and styles, take notes or tear out pictures of mirrors that catch your eye. This will help you to reference your favorite styles when you go shopping easily.
Remember that many different styles of bathroom mirrors are available, from traditional to modern and everything in between. Some popular design styles include farmhouse, minimalist, vintage, and coastal. Think about the overall look and feel that you want to create in your bathroom, and choose a mirror that complements that style.
In addition to design style, you’ll also want to consider the size and shape of the mirror. Think about the size of your bathroom, and choose a mirror that fits well in the space. If you have a smaller bathroom, you may choose a smaller mirror or mirror with a more compact shape. On the other hand, if you have a larger bathroom, you may want to choose a larger mirror that can serve as a statement piece.
By taking the time to research different design styles and characteristics, you can find the perfect mirror for your bathroom without wasting time or money on trial-and-error methods.
Determine Function
Before purchasing a bathroom mirror, it’s important to determine what functions you need it to serve. Bathroom mirrors can serve various functions, and by clarifying your specific needs, you can make a more informed decision that will save you time, money, and hassle.
One of the most common functions of a bathroom mirror is to reflect on yourself for personal grooming tasks such as brushing your teeth, washing your face, and applying makeup or shaving. If this is your primary concern, you may want to consider an illuminated bathroom mirror. These mirrors are equipped with built-in lights that provide ambient lighting and clarity for personal hygiene tasks.
If you’re looking for additional storage space in your bathroom, you may want to consider a bathroom mirror cabinet. These mirrors are designed with storage space behind the mirror itself, which can be a great way to keep your bathroom organized and clutter-free. These mirrored cabinets can be mounted on the wall or recessed into the wall for a more streamlined look.
In addition to function, it’s important to consider the size and shape of the mirror in relation to your bathroom space. A compact mirror may be more appropriate if you have a smaller bathroom. Alternatively, if you have a larger bathroom, you may consider a larger mirror that can serve as a statement piece.
By taking the time to determine the specific functions that you need your bathroom mirror to serve, you can make a more informed decision that will save you time, money, and hassle. You’ll be able to choose a great mirror that provides the features and functions you need for your personal grooming and storage needs.
Determine Type
There are three main types of mirrors: Fixed, Hanging, and Adjustable.
The Fixed bathroom wall mirror is the mirror that is permanently installed flat to the wall. It can be the inset type of medicine cabinet mirror that has been a standard in homes and may have some variation of mirror flexibility, such as a 3-panel door providing greater visual angles.
However, many builders are installing a simple flat panel mirror directly on the wall today. Etched, beveled, illuminated, gilded, framed bathroom mirrors are most commonly used in newer homes today. They are either glued directly to the wall or attached using a small anchoring system or framed-out molding.
Like picture frames, hanging mirrors come in various styles and variations. Some mirrors may have a simple, minimalist design, while others may have intricate details and embellishments. When choosing a hanging mirror for your bathroom, consider the style of your existing decor and choose a mirror that complements it.
One advantage of hanging mirrors is that they can be easily moved or repositioned to change your bathroom’s look. They can be hung at any height or angle, depending on your preferences and the layout of your bathroom. This flexibility allows you to create a personalized look that reflects your style.
Adjustable mirrors are typically wall-mounted, which allows for greater stability and flexibility in positioning. The mirror’s base is attached to the wall, and the mirror itself can be adjusted using a range of mechanisms such as hinges or telescoping arms. This lets you position the mirror at the perfect angle and height for your needs.
Another advantage of adjustable mirrors is they often come with additional focused lighting. This can be especially helpful when applying makeup or performing other tasks requiring more light. Some models even come with adjustable lighting, allowing you to customize the brightness and color temperature.
Determine Application
The final step in installing your mirror is understanding some simple design principles.
When choosing a mirror for your bathroom, it’s important to consider the size and shape of the mirror and the furniture piece below it. A good rule of thumb is to ensure that the mirror is not wider than the furniture piece and is at least 2/3rds the width. This helps to create balance and harmony in the space.
If you find a bathroom mirror that you love but falls outside these guidelines, don’t worry! You can still make it work by adding accent art or smaller mirrors to the wall to distribute the visual weight and create a cohesive look.
In addition to size, the shape of the mirror should also complement the overall design style of the bathroom. For instance, an oval or round mirror would be a safe and elegant choice if your bathroom features soft or rounded edges. Conversely, if you have a more contemporary bathroom with squared and boxed edges, you may want to opt for a square or rectangular mirror to match the sharp lines and angles of the space.
Finally, consider the type of edge on the mirror. Plain-edged mirrors are often used in contemporary bathrooms as they have a sleek and modern look. On the other hand, beveled or etched mirrors are more commonly used in traditional settings as they have a more ornate and decorative feel.
So there you have it. No bathroom is complete without a mirror. Now you have the design tools to choose the best mirror to sparkle in your bathroom!
