I’ve always loved decorating my living room in a way that makes it feel open and airy.
One of my favorite tricks is to use mirrors to reflect light and create the illusion of more space:
Recently, I’ve been really into unique mirror ideas that add visual interest while still serving their functional purpose.
Did you know that mirrors can make a room appear larger and brighter?
It’s true!
They reflect light and images, opening up even the darkest spaces:
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Oversized Mirrors
Lean into the brightening power of mirrors by going big.
Oversized mirror ideas are totally trending right now.
We’re talking like 5-6 feet tall.
Hang a monumental mirror on the living room wall opposite your window.
It’ll reflect a ton of natural light.
For bonus style points, look for ornate gold frames or creative shapes.
I have a massive round mirror in a thick gold frame hanging above my fireplace.
It instantly makes the room feel double the size thanks to the huge reflective surface.
The ornate frame adds a touch of glam that jazzes up my otherwise minimalist living room.
I love how it bounces around natural light from my front window during the day.
At night, it reflects the flicker of candlelight and creates a cozy ambiance.
Oversized mirrors can be tricky to hang, so make sure you have help.
Measure the wall space beforehand so you get a mirror that fits properly.
Use heavy duty anchors designed for big mirrors to securely fasten it to the wall studs.
A professional installation is best for giant mirrors over the fireplace or anything weighing over 50 pounds.
Place the mirror around 60 inches off the ground for ideal visibility.
Make sure to clean oversized living room mirrors regularly since they show every speck of dust!
Round Mirrors
Circular mirrors make awesome accent pieces in living rooms.
They soften up boxy spaces and add a touch of elegance.
Use a large round mirror as the focal point over your mantle or sofa.
Cluster 3-5 small orb mirrors together on a blank wall for tons of shine and visual texture.
I love using round mirrors of all sizes to inject a bit of interest into my living room.
I have a giant antiqued bronze circle mirror hanging above my fireplace.
It immediately draws your eye with its unusual shape and dark vintage patina.
On the opposite wall, I have a cluster of three smaller circle mirrors in a fun art display.
The staggered arrangement and varied sizes make for great visual texture.
Round mirrors are also perfect for awkward corner spaces.
Try hanging one at an angle to fill in that dead zone and make the corner feel intentional.
Small orb mirrors can sit atop side tables, consoles, and shelves.
Use them in place of art or decorative objects for reflective flair.
Lean into the circular motif by pairing your round mirrors with marble dining tables, woven poufs, and abstract art prints.
Just take care not to go overboard with circles or your living room may start to feel dizzying!
Mirrored Furniture
Incorporate mirrors into your living room furniture.
Mirrored furniture like coffee tables, consoles and sideboards kill two style birds with one stone.
You get the functional piece your space needs plus reflective surfaces.
Bonus: the mirror effect makes rooms feel more spacious.
I splurged on a glam mirrored coffee table for my living room and it was so worth it.
The geometric mirrored panels align in a cool faceted effect that bounces light around the space.
It makes the whole room feel airier and larger while serving as chic cocktail table.
Look for mirrored furniture with protective coatings to prevent scratches and peeling.
Also make sure pieces have adjustable levelers on the bottom so the mirror sits flush on uneven floors.
Incorporate mirrored sideboards or cabinets for concealed storage that doubles visual space.
Use mirrored trays and tabletop pieces to inject tiny reflective accents.
Mix metals and shapes for eclectic style, like brass framing on a rectangular coffee table.
Keep cleaning supplies handy since mirrored furniture shows every single smudge!
Sunburst Mirrors
Make a splash with a sunburst mirror!
The radiating lines emanating from the center create striking visual appeal.
Sunburst mirrors have an eclectic, almost celestial vibe.
Use one to jazz up a dull wall or make a bold living room accent.
Sunburst mirrors are definitely statement-making focal points.
Mine makes such a visual impact above my sofa with its intricate metal rays gleaming.
The dynamic shape feels almost hypnotic to look at and really energizes the space.
Sunburst mirrors come in all different materials like metal, wood, or tile.
Play up the retro starburst vibe with a psychedelic blacklight poster nearby.
Or keep it contemporary with modern leather seating and sleek end tables.
Use sunburst mirrors to infuse a maximalist, eclectic vibe or focal point into minimalist rooms.
Their celestial shape works well in entryways to make a powerful first impression.
Lean into the cosmic motif with other decor like moon phase art or a Sputnik chandelier!
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Lean Mirrors Against Walls
Here’s a super simple mirror trick for small living rooms: lean a long mirror against the wall!
It opens up the space instantly and costs next to nothing.
Go for sleek and modern or ornate and vintage.
Bonus points if you lean it behind your sofa.
Leaning an elongated mirror against the wall is genius for cramped living rooms like mine.
I leaned a six foot antique gold mirror with intricate detailing behind my small two-seater sofa.
It was thrifted for like $50 but looks insanely glam and expensive creating that grand hotel vibe.
The mirror visually doubles the whole space and makes my petite sofa look like a grand chaise when its reflection is behind it.
Make sure to secure leaning mirrors properly so they don’t topple over.
Use museum putty to temporarily adhere mirrors directly against the wall without damaging paint.
Or install discreet L-brackets along the bottom corners into wall studs for added stability.
Layer in other boho styling like a woven rug, macrame wall hangings, or rattan chairs for eclectic flair.
Mirror Walls
Feelin’ fancy?
Cover an entire living room wall with mirrors.
Mirrored walls create the illusion of double the space.
They also provide clever concealment for things like TVs.
Just take care to avoid a funhouse effect.
Stick to one mirrored wall per room.
I turned an entire wall of my living room into a seamless mirrored surface and it looks so glamorous!
The mirror wall reflects light from the front window, making the whole room brighter.
It also makes the narrow living room feel double the size thanks to the mirrored illusion.
I kept the rest of the walls simple with neutral paint so it doesn’t feel like a funhouse.
Make sure to use quality adhesive when installing multiple mirror panels to avoid ugly seams.
You can also frame out the mirror wall with wood trim to give it a built-in custom look.
Use a mounted TV bracket that extends out from the wall so you can slide the TV in front of the mirror when not in use.
Cleanup is a breeze with a handheld steamer to avoid streaks and water marks.
Illuminate a mirror wall with recessed lighting or pendant lamps for dramatic effect.
Mirrored Cabinets
Incorporate mirrors into cabinetry for hidden storage with a reflective punch.
Swap out standard cabinet fronts for mirrored panels.
The mirror effect makes your living room look bigger.
You also get functional concealed storage for media, barware or clutter.
I turned a basic Ikea cabinet into a glam built-in by installing mirrored cabinet fronts.
The sleek reflective surface makes the whole wall feel wider and bounces more light around.
It hides all my clutter like coasters, remotes, styling magazines.
Make sure mirrored cabinets have catches to hold doors closed.
Install push-open hinges for a smooth, handle-free look.
Add interior lighting so the contents are visible when doors are closed.
Frosted mirror glass softens reflections while still brightening up the room.
Look for pieces with adjustable shelves to customize storage.
Fireplace Mirrors
Place a commanding mirror above your fireplace to amplify the focal point.
Choose something that stretches the entire length and just about touches the mantle.
Mirrors reflect firelight and candlelight beautifully at night.
During the day, they’ll bounce around ample amounts of sunshine.
An oversized rectangular mirror above the fireplace is such a classic look but I just love it.
Mine has a chunky wood frame with carved detailing that feels tucked into the stonework.
At night the mirror refects flickering flames making the fireplace even cozier.
During the day, it reflects light from the big front window into the back half of the room.
Make sure your mirror has a fire-resistant backing if mounting above a working fireplace.
Allow around six inches of clearance between the top of the mantle and bottom of the mirror.
Purchase a mirror that connects to the hardware on the back for easy hanging.
A sunburst design makes the fireplace the star of the room with dramatic flair.
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Gallery Walls
Fill up that awkward blank space with an eclectic gallery mirror wall!
Mix all different shapes and sizes for major visual interest.
Go for a random asymmetrical arrangement to make the wall feel dynamic and fun.
The mirrors will scatter light in different directions for a brighter, more spacious effect.
My foyer was begging for some personality so I gave it a mosaic mirror gallery wall.
I framed small mirrors in every shape imaginable – circles, ovals, rectangles, diamonds.
Arranging them in a fun asymmetrical pattern took some trial and error.
But the end result is a playful gallery wall that bounces light all around the entry.
Make sure to use varying sizes and leave some negative space between mirrors.
Use museum putty to arrange and rearrange pieces until you love the layout.
Salvage old frames or distress newer ones for an eclectic vibe.
Incorporate other reflective accents like mercury glass or silver trays.
Antique Mirrors
Vintage mirrors with oxidized metallic finishes and ornate frames bring timeworn character to modern rooms.
Use an antique mirror atop a fireplace, behind a sofa or flanking a window.
Their aged charm plays beautifully against contemporary elements.
I picked up a stunning antique gold sunburst mirror at a Paris flea market years ago.
Its oxidized frame and cracked glass add the most gorgeous antiqued vibe above my midcentury credenza.
The dynamic shape contrasts nicely with the linear furniture and geometric art.
Look for beveled edges, chipped paint and tarnished frames for authentic antique charm.
Incorporate pieces into unexpected spaces like the kitchen, bedroom or bathroom.
Refurbish and modernize frames with metallic spray paints and high-gloss finishes.
Unique Shapes
Break out of the box with uniquely shaped mirrors!
Triangle, diamond, oval, starburst – the options are endless.
Geometric and organic shapes provide eye-catching flair.
They give your basic rectangular mirror an artistic upgrade.
I have an arched floor mirror in my living room that instantly glams up the place.
The dramatic curved shape provides a nice counterpoint to all the sharp edges and linear furniture.
In my entryway, I used a circular mirror trimmed in brass to soften the corner.
Look for beveled edges, molded frames and cutout silhouettes for unique shape inspo.
Layer in some quirky decor like ceramic vessels, abstract art prints and sculptural vases.
Play up the shape with coordinating circular side tables or triangular wall shelves.
Distressed diamond mirrors can provide farmhouse character mixed with modern edge.
Repurposed Mirrors
Give an old mirror new life by repurposing it in your living room.
Rescue flea market finds or even upcycle a frame.
With some imagination, you can make previous mirrors feel fresh and new again.
Get creative!
I turned a dated circular mirror into a work of art by filling in sections of the frame with mini colored glass tiles.
It was a DIY project but the end result looks like a super expensive mosaic mirror.
You can update a frame with metallic spray paints, wallpaper, or creative trim.
Cut a large mirror down to size to work better in your space.
Freshen up the look by adding LED backlighting.
Turn that old dresser mirror into a standalone piece by removing it and adding legs.
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Illuminated Mirrors
Go for maximum glow with an illuminated mirror.
Look for living room mirrors with built-in lighting around the perimeter or candles flickering in front.
The ambient lighting casts a warm, welcoming vibe at night.
I installed a rectangular mirror above my console with LED strips around the inside edge.
It casts a gentle glow at night that’s perfect for creating ambiance.
The concealed lighting is subtle but makes a huge impact.
Opt for dimmable lights to control brightness and tone.
Frame out a basic mirror with wood trim and hide the lighting strips inside.
Use smart bulbs to change up the color and vibe.
Strategically place illuminated mirrors to provide soft lighting in dark corners.
Mosaic Mirrors
Mosaic mirrors comprised of tiny tile fragments have beautiful ornate flair.
Their multifaceted surfaces reflect light in an almost kaleidoscopic way.
Use one as a colorful accent piece that brightens up your living room with shine and artistry.
I found an incredible antique mosaic mirror on a trip to Mexico last year.
The hundreds of tiny colorful tiles form a mesmerizing floral pattern that looks like a work of art.
Hanging it above my credenza, the fractured reflections give that whole corner a vibrant energy.
Look for mirrors with geometric, floral or abstract designs.
The more intricate the tile work, the more visually compelling.
Pair mosaic mirrors with other saturated elements like patterned rugs, bold art and richly colored furniture.
Let the mirror be the star and keep surrounding decor minimal.
Mirrored Tiles
Take inspo from chic bathrooms and install a field of small mirrored tiles.
The repetitive shimmery squares create tons of eye-catching sparkle.
Bonus: they make cramped living rooms feel more spacious thanks to the illusion of double the space!
I covered a blank living room wall with a grid of simple square mirror tiles.
The mirrored surface instantly widened the room and bounced more light around.
Use traditional subway-style tiles or penny rounds for lots of sparkle.
Outline the tiles with thin grout lines or cover the whole wall for a seamless look.
Mix and match polished, aged and frosted finishes for more texture and interest.
Take care with alignment and trim work for clean finished edges.
Convex Mirrors
Convex mirrors with a slightly outward-curving surface subtly distort room reflections.
They’re super trendy and lend spaces a funky, carnivalesque vibe when used in moderation.
Try one convex focal point or go bold with a wall of funhouse curvature.
I hung a mid-century convex mirror above my sofa for a retro-glam vibe.
The curved distortion makes the room appear wider behind it.
Pair convex mirrors with playful decor like brightly colored furniture, striped rugs and quirky art prints.
Or use it as an accent in an otherwise minimalist, masculine den.
Look for convex mirrors with wood, leather or metal frames in organic shapes.
Add dramatic lighting above to spotlight the curving reflections.
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Fretwork Mirrors
Fretwork mirrors with perforated metal coverings allow you to control how much reflection happens.
They’re perfect for limiting glare from windows but still letting some light shine through.
The metalwork itself acts as an artful design feature too.
I hung a round fretwork mirror near my bright living room window.
The perforated bronze metal filters the glare but still bounces a soft glow around.
Mix fretwork mirrors with industrial elements like steel furniture, Edison bulbs and concrete accents.
Incorporate windowpane patterns, nautical starbursts and Moroccan trellis fretwork.
Look for backlit fretwork mirrors to cast intricate shadow patterns at night.
Layer in potted succulents, woven textiles and wood carvings for an organic feel.
DIY Mirrors
Get crafty with DIY mirrors for an easy homemade living room upgrade.
Personalize a basic circular mirror by gluing on assorted beads, shells or stones.
Cut framed mirrors into fun geometric shapes like diamonds, triangles or octagons.
Use metallic spray paints to update basic IKEA mirrors with trendy brass, rose gold or silver finishes.
Add decorative trim, wallpaper or fabric around the frame for eclectic flair.
Glue on tapered wood legs or dowels to turn a leaning mirror into freestanding floor decor.
Freshen up a flea market find by replacing the glass and backing with new reflective sheets.
Cut frames apart to create unique fragmented mirror wall art.
Paint the backside of a mirror with chalkboard paint for a functional message board.
Use vinyl letter stickers to spell out messages like ‘Reflect’ or ‘Look Closer’.
Glue magnifying film onto sections of an existing mirror for fun optical distortion effects.
Modern Mirrors
Incorporate sleek, contemporary mirrors for an updated living room aesthetic.
Lean super minimalist mirrors against walls to open up spaces.
Look for beveled edges and polished stainless steel frames.
Display extra-large square or rectangular mirrors prominently for bold modern style.
Use circular mirrors with concentric rings radiating out for visual interest.
Opt for futuristic materials like acrylic, lucite and chrome.
Frame out basic budget mirrors with thin wood or metal trim for a sleek designer look.
Paint the walls black or charcoal to make mirrored surfaces really stand out.
Mix in modern sculptural seating, glass coffee tables, and contemporary art prints.
Rustic Mirrors
Incorporate rustic mirrors for a cozy, earthy living room vibe.
Display antique mirrors with weathered frames and a distressed finish.
Look for designs with natural materials like carved wood, woven wicker, or ram’s horn corners.
Choose oval, sunburst and arched mirrors for organic shapes with character.
Make your own rustic mirror by wrapping twine, burlap or linen around a basic frame.
Paint or stain frames in earthy hues like deep brown, olive green, and brick red.
Layer in timeworn elements like leather benches, stone fireplaces, and antique area rugs.
Finish the look with dried florals, macrame wall hangings, and cozy textured pillows.
Bold Mirrors
Go big and make a statement with bold living room mirrors!
Opt for oversized mirrors that span almost floor to ceiling.
Choose unusual shapes like stars, diamonds, octagons or crescents for drama.
Pick vivid framed mirrors in colors like emerald, sapphire or gold metallic.
Display convex or beveled mirrors for added interest and optical flair.
Cluster small bold mirrors together for a high-impact accent wall.
Paint just the inside of a frame bright white to make the mirror pop.
Surround mirrors with backlighting or sconces for an eye-catching glow.
Layer in other daring decor like lacquered furniture or zebra print rugs.
