Wall Mirrors

A mirror is sized against what sits below it, rarely against the whole wall. Above a sofa, a sideboard or a fireplace, it covers two thirds of the furniture's width. On a wall with no furniture, it can be taller than it is wide and hang lower.

Above a sofa, keep 8 to 12 in (20 to 30 cm) between the back cushions and the bottom of the frame, so people can lean back without bumping the glass.

In a living room, the mirror works mostly with the window. On a side wall, it carries light to the back of the room. Facing the window, it reflects the view, and a little glare at the end of the day. The mirror above a sideboard is a classic because it frames the furniture and backs a lamp and a few objects: center it on the sideboard, not on the wall. In a dining room, place it so it reflects the pendant light over the table: the evening light doubles and the room feels more lived in. A gilded overmantel with moldings remains the most elegant answer above a fireplace, a thin-framed round, the lightest modern wall mirror, above a console.

In an entryway, a mirror has a job: a last look before you leave. Hang it beside the door rather than opposite, with the top of the glass at about 71 to 75 in (180 to 190 cm). In a narrow hallway, a large long mirror on the side wall makes the passage feel wider; at the end of the hallway, it adds depth. An over-the-door mirror hangs on a bedroom or closet door without drilling the wall. A jewelry armoire wall mirror combines glass and storage in an entryway or walk-in closet.

In a bedroom, a mirror above a dresser follows the same rules as in the living room. In a walk-in closet, go for height: a 71 in (180 cm) mirror lets you check a whole outfit. For a powder room or a small sink, a small wall mirror of 12 or 16 in (30 or 40 cm) is enough. On a bigger wall, group rather than enlarge: three small round rattan mirrors spaced 2 to 3 in (5 to 8 cm) apart, first traced on kraft paper taped to the wall. The cloud mirror, a small piece to stand or hang, fits on a vanity or a low bedroom dresser.

Weigh before you drill. A 4 mm glass is about 2 lb per square foot (10 kg per square meter), frame not included. On drywall, use metal expansion anchors or screw into a stud; on concrete or brick, use suitable nylon anchors. For a large mirror, two fixing points aligned with a spirit level keep the frame from tilting, and a French cleat spreads the load. Check the load rating printed on the anchor packaging. A mirror over 59 in (150 cm) leaning on the floor is secured to the wall at the top with a strap. If you are unsure what your wall is made of, get advice before drilling.