Arched Mirrors

A vertical rectangle already makes a wall look taller; an arch adds a curve that softens the room and makes the ceiling seem higher. It is the ideal shape for an apartment with 8 ft (2.5 m) ceilings, a narrow entryway or a bedroom under the eaves. It echoes the arched windows of old houses and suits a classic interior as well as a Japandi or boho chic one.

An arched wall mirror goes above a console or dresser, covering two thirds of its width, or alone on a stretch of wall in an entryway. The arched standing mirror moves around and serves as a full length mirror in a bedroom. The full height model, 64 or 65 in (162 or 165 cm), sits on the floor, leaning against the wall: under an 8 ft (2.5 m) ceiling, it leaves more than 31 in (80 cm) of air above it, and stays balanced under a lower ceiling too. Allow about 6.5 ft (2 m) of space in front to enjoy it: this is an arched full length mirror meant to be seen from a distance.

For a large wall-hung mirror rounded at the top, the peak of the curve should not go above 79 to 83 in (200 to 210 cm) from the floor in a standard room: higher, the eye no longer reaches it and the curve loses its effect. Instead, align the peak with the top of nearby doors, so the lines of the room answer each other.

The thin gold arch lights up a bedroom with terracotta walls or an entryway painted deep green. The black frame draws a sharp outline on a white wall and suits a contemporary interior. The natural wood arch belongs in a Japandi bedroom, with linen and a light wood headboard. The window-pane arch, with its black muntins, imitates a studio window: it creates the illusion of an opening on a blank wall, for example at the end of a windowless hallway.

In an entryway, an arched wall mirror above a narrow console structures the wall and gives a last look before leaving. In a bedroom, the large floor model plays the role of a cheval mirror. In a living room, two identical arches on either side of a fireplace or sideboard create a very classic symmetry. In a bathroom, an arch without lighting works above a sink, as long as the room is well ventilated and the mirror stays away from splashes.

Lean the mirror against the wall at a slight angle: the base 4 to 6 in (10 to 15 cm) from the wall for the full height arch. Put non-slip pads under the frame, especially on waxed hardwood. Then secure the top of the frame to the wall with a strap or small chain: the curve of the arch makes it unstable if bumped, and it must be held, particularly with children or pets. Always move it with two people.