We all love an artfully arranged mantel, but it can be hard to know where to start when there are so many different ways to decorate. Mantels also act as a focal point to any open space, so you want to pick items that reflect the mood, ambiance, and character of the room. I love decorating our mantel and I’m excited to share some ideas on how to incorporate mirrors within your mantel decor to give you the aesthetic that you want.
Mirrors are such a great way to add character and functionality to any space. They also look good in almost any design aesthetic. Here are some of my top tips for styling a mirror on your mantel:
Decorating Your Mantel with a Mirror
1. Layer with other items
This beautiful white fireplace looks cozy and lived-in with the silver mirror layered with a basket. The wooden candle holders mimic some of the other earthy tones in other parts of this living space.
2. Embrace Minimalist Decor
If you don’t want the appearance of fussy decor, you can easily incorporate a mirror as a stand-alone piece with only one or two other items to compliment it. This would work best for a home that leans towards a more minimalist aesthetic overall (otherwise it could just end up looking a little empty). In the photo above, you can see that the space feels more simple and understated. However, the mirror color still matches both the mantel, candle holders, and pots.
3. Use Multiple Mirrors
The layered mirror design gives this mantel a moody, regal vibe. It looks both classy and intentional. If you want to replicate this look, I would recommend going to the thrift store and finding several different shapes and sizes of mirrors. Then, you can take them home and spray paint the frames to match. I think gold was a good choice for this particular mantel because it compliments the darker wood and the light granite.
4. Incorporate a Unique Shape
The shape of this particular mirror lends a boho vibe that compliments the potted plants super well. I also love how it actually matches both the fireplace and the wall behind it – instead of creating more contrast, it feels like a more cohesive part of the whole mantel. The plants create a lot of visual interest on their own, so the mirror doesn’t have to be as big of a focal point.
5. Use Neutral Tones
By matching your mirror’s frame with the decor, you can build a cohesive design that fits with all of the other elements that you want to incorporate. In the example above, the wooden frame is a similar shade to both the picture frame and the candle holders. A neutral palette doesn’t have to be boring, though. You can always use different shades of the same color or color family to achieve a similar effect.
A few things to remember when you are decorating with mirrors:
- Make sure they are clean! Mirrors will easily show any dust, fingerprints, or liquid that comes into contact with them. Give your mirrors a good scrub if you are buying second hand. My mom taught me to use newspapers to wipe them down for a streak-free finish.
- Size matters – make sure to pay attention to the amount of space between your mantel and the ceiling above. If you pick a tiny mirror for a large space, it can look a little awkward.
- Pay attention to the color of the frame. A frame can either clash with or compliment anything else on your mantel.
However you decide to use a mirror, just remember that mirrors are literally a reflection of your space! You really can’t go wrong.
