Different types of Mirror Frames

A mirror can help make a small bathroom feel spacious and it can amplify the natural light in your living room. Placed strategically in the hallway, it acts as a welcome home and a final last check before you head out the door.

Framed mirrors can be works of art as well as practical design elements, but knowing how to make a mirror work for your space can be tricky. From venetian mirrors to minimalist full-length mirrors and spherical mirrors, there are many types of mirror frames and styles to choose from.

We've put together a guide on how to choose the right type of mirror frame so you can achieve the look you want for your space. Check out the steps below to get started or give us a call for more tailored advice about custom mirrors in Perth.

1. Understand the different types of mirrors

The most common type of mirror is the plane mirror. It's made from a flat piece of glass that's coated in a metal alloy to make it reflective. The reflection is accurate in size and shape, making it a good choice for both practical and decorative mirrors.

Spherical mirrors bulge inwards (concave) or outwards (convex). Concave mirrors will magnify an image and are often used as makeup mirrors for this reason.

Convex mirrors make the reflection look smaller than the actual object. They're commonly used in car mirrors for a wider view. Some shops also use convex mirror glass to make customers feel slimmer and taller.

You can also classify mirrors by how they are displayed, their size or their shape.

• Wall mirrors are popular because they are easy to display without taking up floor space.

• Lean mirrors are placed on a surface and leaned against the wall. They are popular with renters who can't install hooks in the wall.
• Full length mirrors are ideal for dressing rooms and bedrooms where you want to see your whole outfit from head to toe.
• Antique style mirrors borrow inspiration from past eras and can be a great decorative choice. You can even use old distressed mirrors to create a thoughtful piece of art.

2. Figure out what type of mirror frame is right for your room

Start by taking a good look at the room where you want to display a mirror. Consider the different locations where you could place it and what effect it might have on the rest of the room.

Don't forget to consider your existing decor style. If your room has a modern and contemporary feel, it might look best with a plain, sleek finish frame. Boho and vintage inspired rooms might work better with a rustic ornate frame.

If you're not sure what's going to be the best fit, don't be afraid to ask for a professional opinion. At Portfolio Picture Frames, we encourage our customers to bring in photos of their room so we can help find the perfect mirror match.

Check out our room by room guide below:

Living room

A large mirror in the living room can make the space feel sophisticated and welcoming. An ornate frame design is perfect if you want the mirror to take centre stage over the mantlepiece or above the lounge.

Small petite frames also work well in the living room, especially if you have a lot of other art work displayed. Go for colours, textures and shapes that complement the existing style of the room.

Eye catching mirror frame ideas for the living room:

• Natural wooden frame with raw edges
• Ornate gold frame with antique mirror glass
• Thick wooden frame with a white washed finish

Bathroom

A good mirror is essential in the bathroom. Small bathrooms feel roomier and dark bathrooms feel lighter with a well placed mirror.

Vanity mirrors typically work best when they are proportional to the size of the vanity. So a long vanity will look great with a large mirror and a petite vanity will work well with a more modest framed bathroom mirror. If you have a double sink, consider two matching mirrors for a balanced look.

Popular frame choices for bathroom mirrors:

• Plain frame matching the colour of the sink hardware
• Painted wood frame matching the bathroom tiles or a feature colour in the tiles
• Brightly coloured frame that pops out from a minimalist bathroom design
• Antique style frame in gold or silver

Bedroom

A mirror in the bedroom can be a functional getting-ready item, or a purely decorative piece to bring more character into the space.

Full-length mirrors are ideal if you get dressed in your bedroom. For small rooms, a framed wall mirror will save space, but more spacious bedrooms can get away with a leaning mirror or free standing mirror.

Frame choices to suit your bedroom:

• An antique mirror frame above the dresser
• A full-length mirror framed in natural or stained wood to match your bedroom furniture
• A large wall mirror above the bed head with a metallic or textured frame

Hallway / Entryway

Hallways are usually tight on space. Adding a mirror is a great way to make the area feel more expansive. If you've got a dark nook in your house, a mirror placed opposite the light source can also do wonders.

Entryways are a great spot to make a statement. If the area is minimalist, consider introducing shape and texture with the mirror frame. If you've got a lot of decor already in place, consider a more simple mirror frame that will make your carefully chosen pieces stand out.

Types of mirror frames that work well in hallways:

• Full length or rectangular frame at the end of the hallway
• Wide, minimalist frame over the hallway table

3. Get the size right

To achieve a balanced look, you want to make sure your mirror and its frame are the perfect size for the space.

Hanging a mirror the same size as the dresser below can give the area a more expansive feel while choosing a mirror that is smaller can help focus the eye. Do some research into the looks that you want to achieve.

If you are wanting a full length mirror to check your outfit from head to toe every morning, you can work out your desired height by marking the wall where you would like it to hang from.

The great thing about getting a custom framed mirror is that it will be made exactly to fit your space. Instead of looking like it was forced into the space, your mirror will look like it belongs there.

4. Aim for perfect placement

Given that mirrors reflect light, it’s essential to consider the changing light in the room throughout the day. Position your mirror where it will amplify the natural light but not send bright reflections into people's eye line.

For dark rooms that receive little to no natural light, place the mirror behind or next to light pendants. Try holding the mirror in different places, or practising with another mirror to see what the effect is.

If a single large mirror is out of budget, try grouping smaller mirrors for a similar effect. Matching mirrors in a row can look good with a structured interior design whereas more free spirited designs might benefit from a variety of mirror frame styles.

Avoid placing your mirror where it will reflect something that causes you stress or discomfort. For example, a mirror that reflects paperwork on your desk may amplify your stress. On the other hand, reflections of greenery or attractive nooks in your home can be inspiring and comforting.

Visit Portfolio Picture Framers for your perfect mirror

Whether your home is contemporary, classical, beachy or ultra-modern there's a frame style that will suit your mirror at Portfolio Picture Framers. We can supply the mirror for you, or you can re-use an old mirror you have at home.

Our background as art framers means we know how to make custom mirror frames that are visually striking and of the highest quality.

Visit our studio in Myaree for a free consultation and bring along any ideas or photos of your space that you may have. We can work with you to create the perfect mirror for your home.