The mirror is the focal point of a bathroom’s design in more ways than one. Whether you’re looking at it as a feature piece in the traditional sense, or as the point of most visual use within a space, the mirror is going to be dominant in how a bathroom’s overall design looks and feels.
Choosing the right bathroom mirror is essential, as it not only enhances the aesthetics but also serves functional purposes. A well-selected mirror can elevate your bathroom, adding light, space, and style. At Tilemall, we strive to bring you high-quality tiles, vanities, bathroomware, and mirrors across Australia. To help you make an informed choice, here’s a detailed guide on choosing the perfect bathroom mirror that fits your needs and enhances your bathroom’s design.
Choosing Your Size
There are a number of considerations that can go into what would be considered the best mirror for a particular bathroom. The reason for this is the fact that people’s needs are just different, meaning that what’s going to be good for one person is likely to be less ideal for another. For example, have you ever considered where the bathroom mirror in your house is actually positioned? For a shorter person, a small, raised high mirror may look fantastic as a feature piece but simply won’t be a good fit for actual use cases.
Size is a crucial aspect when selecting a bathroom mirror, as it affects both functionality and aesthetics. Here are some pointers to help you choose the best size:
- Proportionate to the Vanity: A general rule is to match the width of the mirror to the width of the vanity or basin. This balance creates visual harmony, preventing the mirror from overpowering or underwhelming the space.
- Practical Viewing Height: Think about the mirror’s height, especially if multiple people will use it. Place it at a height that accommodates everyone. A mirror that’s too high or low can be uncomfortable for daily use.
- Full Wall Mirrors for Smaller Bathrooms: If you want to make a smaller bathroom feel larger, consider a full-wall mirror. It can create the illusion of more space and reflect light better, enhancing the overall atmosphere.
- The mirror should blend seamlessly into the space rather than dominate it, especially in compact bathrooms. With the right size, you set a solid foundation for an aesthetically pleasing design.
Small Mirrors: Ideal for Compact Spaces and Statement Pieces
Small mirrors are a versatile choice, typically ranging from 40 to 60 cm in width. These mirrors are excellent for smaller bathrooms, powder rooms, or for use as accent pieces in larger bathrooms. Small mirrors bring an elegant touch without overwhelming the space, and they work well when placed over small vanities or narrow sinks.
Example from Tilemall:
Frameless Led Mirror 600mm Round is a classic small-sized option that works wonderfully in minimalist or compact bathrooms. Its round shape adds softness and fits well in spaces with rounded fixtures or curved lines.
Advantages of Small Mirrors:
- Space-Saving: Small mirrors don’t crowd the room, making them ideal for smaller bathrooms.
- Focus on Detail: Because they’re often used as decorative pieces, small mirrors can have more intricate designs or frames, adding elegance without dominating the space.
- Pairing Potential: In larger bathrooms, small mirrors can be paired with other decor items, such as wall-mounted lights or framed artwork, to create a unique style.
Medium Mirrors: Balanced Choice for Most Bathrooms
Medium mirrors are typically between 60 and 90 cm in width, making them a balanced choice for standard bathrooms with medium-sized vanities. These mirrors are versatile and provide enough reflection space for daily use without overwhelming the design.
Example from Tilemall:
Archie Metal Frame LED Mirror 900x600 is a medium-sized mirror that provides a clean, modern look, perfect for a variety of bathroom styles. Its rectangular shape suits bathrooms with straight lines and angular vanities.
Advantages of Medium Mirrors:
- Suitable for Everyday Use: Medium mirrors offer a generous reflection area, making them practical for routine tasks like shaving or applying makeup.
- Visually Balanced: They’re large enough to make a statement but still fit comfortably in a moderate-sized bathroom, creating a balanced visual appeal.
- Versatile Placement: Medium mirrors can be used in single or double sink setups, and they complement various vanity styles.
Large Mirrors: Maximal Impact for Spacious Bathrooms
Large mirrors, usually 90 cm and above, are perfect for creating an expansive, luxurious feel. They are well-suited for double vanities or large bathroom walls, providing ample reflection space and maximising light in the room. Large mirrors can make smaller bathrooms feel more spacious and lend an open, airy feel to larger bathrooms.
Example from Tilemall:
Noosa Framed Mirror 1200x600mm is a striking large mirror option ideal for a spacious bathroom or a double vanity setup. Its frameless design ensures it blends seamlessly with contemporary decor, adding light and depth to the space.
Advantages of Large Mirrors:
- Enhanced Reflection and Light: Large mirrors reflect more light, which can make the bathroom appear brighter and more spacious.
- Perfect for Shared Spaces: They offer enough room for two people to use simultaneously, making them ideal for family or shared bathrooms.
- Luxurious Look: Large mirrors make a bold statement and create a high-end, hotel-inspired aesthetic.
Tips for Choosing the Right Mirror Size
- Consider the Width of the Vanity: Matching or slightly under-sizing the mirror to the vanity width creates a harmonious look.
- Think About Wall Space: Ensure there’s enough surrounding wall space to prevent the mirror from overpowering other design elements.
- Plan for Lighting: Leave space on either side for wall lights or sconces, especially if you prefer side lighting over overhead lighting.
At Tilemall, our range of shaving cabinets and mirrors caters to different needs, styles, and bathroom sizes. Whether you prefer a compact mirror for a minimalist look, a medium mirror for balanced functionality, or a large mirror for a grand impact, we have a variety of options for you to explore.
Choosing Your Shape
Mirrors can come in a lot of different forms, with mirror shapes being something that many renovators like to experiment with for their own needs. Mirror shapes are a great way to quickly swap out the energy of a room. Shifting from a rectangle, angular mirror to a more compact circular one is going to make a world of difference in how your bathroom looks and feels.
Bathroom mirrors come in various shapes, from classic rectangles to modern ovals. Selecting the right shape can influence the bathroom’s style and feel:
- Rectangular Mirrors: A timeless choice, rectangular mirrors often suit minimalist or contemporary bathrooms. They provide a clean and structured look, making them versatile and suitable for any design.
- Round and Oval Mirrors: Circular or oval mirrors add a soft, welcoming touch to the bathroom, especially in spaces with organic elements or softer lines. They are a great choice if you want to create a sense of balance and harmony.
- Custom Shapes: Unusual shapes, like arches or asymmetrical designs, can act as statement pieces. These can be ideal for unique bathroom designs that aim to make an impression, but ensure they don’t clash with other design elements.
With that said, do take note of the rest of your bathroom’s design when making a choice. If, for example, you have a bathroom filled with soft lines and curves, having a rigid-looking rectangular mirror can appear quite out of place. This is also the case if you’ve gone for a more brutalist or earthy bathroom design and have a very rounded mirror as the feature.
To Cabinet or Not To Cabinet
If you’re someone who prefers to have that bit of extra storage to play with, having a vanity mirror with storage is a great way to get that extra shelving without compromising on mirror space. With that said, many people still prefer to have a mirror that is perfectly aligned and connected with the wall behind it, so despite the extra storage being desirable, it’s important to know what you want out of the finished piece.
If you’re someone who prefers to have that bit of extra storage to play with, having a vanity mirror with storage is a great way to get that extra shelving without compromising on mirror space. With that said, many people still prefer to have a mirror that is perfectly aligned and connected with the wall behind it, so despite the extra storage being desirable, it’s important to know what you want out of the finished piece. Here are the options
- Mirrored Cabinets for Added Storage: For bathrooms short on space, mirrored cabinets offer hidden storage for toiletries and essentials. They allow you to keep the sink area clutter-free, giving your bathroom a cleaner look.
- Sleek, Wall-Mounted Mirrors: If you prefer a minimalist look, frameless wall-mounted mirrors are an excellent choice. While they lack storage, they bring a streamlined and sophisticated feel, making the bathroom look more open.
Framed or Frameless
In recent times, there has been a little bit of a shift towards frameless mirrors, which blend seamlessly into a space and feel quite naturalistic. This is understandable, and frameless mirrors can be absolutely stunning when used correctly. However, that’s not to say they’ve superseded the traditional framed mirror, and there are many people who still much prefer the more self-contained beauty of a framed mirror over any modern variants.
Framed and frameless mirrors offer distinct styles, each with its advantages:
- Frameless Mirrors: Frameless mirrors have become increasingly popular due to their sleek, modern look. They blend seamlessly into the wall, creating an unobtrusive aesthetic that’s ideal for minimalist or contemporary designs. Frameless mirrors also reflect light more freely without frame edges, enhancing brightness.
- Framed Mirrors: Framed mirrors add character and can act as a focal point in the bathroom. Frames come in various finishes—wood, metal, or painted colours—which can complement or contrast with other fixtures. A black or metallic frame, for instance, can add a bold accent in a neutral bathroom.
~Choosing the right mirror for your bathroom is a very personal decision, and one that it isn’t easy to just logic out. However, as long as you’re looking at a lot of different mirror varieties, we’re sure that you’ll find the one that is right for your space. For now, explore Tilemall’s range of shaving cabinets and mirrors, and find your next bathroom centre piece today.
Conclusion
Finding the ideal mirror doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By considering size, shape, storage, frame, lighting, finish, and placement, you’ll be able to select a mirror that meets your practical needs and enhances your bathroom’s aesthetics.
Start exploring Tilemall’s collection today to discover the perfect mirror and other bathroom essentials that transform your space into a beautifully designed, functional area. We are open six days a week, so don’t hesitate to reach out. Whether you’re planning a large-scale renovation or simply want to make a few updates, Tilemall is here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today, and let’s get started on making your home merry and bright for the holiday season.
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