In many ways, mirrors are taken for granted because they are so ingrained in our daily life. One of the first things most people do within a few minutes of getting up every morning is to look at themselves in their bathroom mirror. Women use compact mirrors to freshen their make-up and commuters use car mirrors to help make the drive to work safe.

But mirrors can be both functional and decorative. The first mirrors were handheld and were made of silver or polished bronze so they were as much artwork as a practical item. By the time of the Renaissance, mirror making had become a skilled craft, and the best mirrors were made in places like Venice, Paris, and London. They became very expensive so mirrors became associated with aristocrats. The hall of mirrors in the palace of Versailles was a pointed statement by Louis XIII on the splendor of the French throne.

It wasn’t just the glass portion of the mirror that made them costly, it was the elaborate framing, which could be made of ivory, silver, tortoiseshell, or polished wood. Some frames were also carvings, making the mirror a kind of sculpture centerpiece. Over time, mirror frames changed, reflecting the design trends of the time.

Today, mirrors come in a wide variety of styles, sizes, and price points. Ubiquitous in bathrooms and powder rooms, they are also a popular wall decoration, both for the frame as well as for their ability to affect the perception of a room and to add light. Here are some tips on how mirrors can be used to enhance a room.

Placing mirrors near a fireplace can reflect the firelight, adding to the ambiance of the room, especially at night. One of the more popular placements is to place a mirror above the fireplace. A large wall mirror can make a small room appear more spacious. In hallways, small mirrors mounted side by side can be an interesting visual decoration. Mirrors in a foyer can add light and a full length mirror in a bedroom is not only practical but can also add depth to the room.

The beauty of mirrors is that they are versatile and can add style and personality to any room without breaking the decorating bank.

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