Oval Mirrors

The oval combines the qualities of the round and the rectangle. Its curve softens a room full of right angles, as a round would; its height reflects more of the silhouette and visually lengthens the wall, as a vertical rectangle would. It is the most fitting shape above a sink or a narrow console, and in an entryway where people of different heights look at themselves.

As with any mirror above furniture, the width of the oval should not exceed two thirds to three quarters of the furniture's width. Above a 24 in (60 cm) vanity, choose an oval 18 to 20 in (45 to 50 cm) wide. Above a double vanity, two identical ovals, each centered on its faucet, look more elegant than a single large mirror. In an entryway, a 31 in (80 cm) tall oval mirror covers the face and upper body. Leave 6 to 10 in (15 to 25 cm) between the furniture and the bottom of the frame.

Hung vertically, the oval lifts the wall and suits low rooms and narrow walls. Horizontally, it stretches above a sideboard, a dresser or a headboard, following a low furniture line. Not every model can hang both ways: the position of the hangers on the back shows it, and the product page specifies it.

A thin gold frame warms a dark wall or a bathroom in pale marble. Black draws a graphic outline, in tune with black faucets or metal furniture. Wood brings a natural, Japandi note. A Venetian mirror stands out with its beveled edge, cut at an angle, which catches the light like a facet: it suits older homes, above a fireplace or a console with slim legs. Finally, the LED oval combines mirror and lighting above a sink; check its IP rating and its position relative to the shower before installing it.

In the bathroom, the oval is almost a classic: it centers on the sink, and two identical models dress a double vanity without weighing it down. In the entryway, a vertical oval above a narrow console gives a last look before leaving. In a bedroom, hung horizontally above a dresser, it softens the line of the closets. In the living room, a gold oval makes a fine replacement for a painting above a period fireplace.

An oval shape forgives nothing: a slight tilt shows immediately. Pencil a vertical line through the center of the furniture, and locate the hangers on the back before drilling. Use anchors suited to your wall and the weight, with two fixing points for large sizes. In the bathroom, choose stainless steel screws.