Living in a compact apartment comes with its fair share of challenges but it also opens the door to some clever decorating opportunities. With a bit of creativity, even the smallest space can feel bright, open, and stylish. One of the easiest and most effective ways to work magic on a small home? Mirrors.
More than just a tool to check your outfit before heading out, mirrors can completely transform your living space, creating light, depth, and style without blowing the budget. Here’s how you can use mirrors to open up your apartment and turn every corner into something truly special.
Why Every Small Apartment Needs Mirrors?
In the world of interior design, mirrors are like secret weapons and they’re especially powerful when you’re working with limited space. Here’s why:
- They bounce natural light around, making rooms feel sunnier and more spacious.
- They trick the eye into seeing more space, extending visual lines and opening up tight spots.
- They double as decor, coming in so many shapes, frames, and sizes to match your style.
- They offer smart functionality, with designs that double as storage or standout features.
If you want your compact apartment to feel anything but cramped, mirrors should be top of your decorating list.
Best Spots to Hang Your Mirrors (and Why They Work)
1. Opposite Windows for Maximum Light
Hang a mirror opposite a window and watch your whole room light up. This clever trick not only captures the natural sunlight but also spreads it, making even a dingy corner feel fresh and airy. No great views? No worries. Position a mirror near a stylish lamp to get a similar brightening effect.
2. Create a Show-Stopping Statement Wall
Go bold with a large mirror that acts like a window itself. Oversized mirrors or even a gallery of smaller ones can create major impact without taking up much real estate. Bonus: leaning a big mirror against a wall (instead of drilling it in) is perfect for renters.
3. Invest in Mirrored Furniture
Coffee tables, sideboards, and wardrobes with mirrored finishes quietly double the light in your room while adding a hint of luxury. Plus, mirrored furniture can make your place feel lighter without making it feel cluttered.
4. Style Up Your Entryway
First impressions count. Placing a mirror in your entryway immediately sets a welcoming tone and it’s handy for one last look before you dash out the door. Choose a mirror with a built-in shelf or hooks to add a bit of Aussie practicality.
5. Expand Narrow Hallways
Got a skinny hallway that feels a bit claustrophobic? Line it with slim-framed or frameless mirrors to visually widen the space. It’s a simple fix that makes a massive difference.
6. Bring Mirrors into the Kitchen and Dining Area
Mirrors in the kitchen? Absolutely. A mirrored splashback or a decorative mirror above the dining table can work wonders — bouncing light around and adding a feeling of space in areas that are often overlooked.
7. Upgrade Your Bedroom Storage with Mirrored Wardrobes
Sliding mirrored wardrobe doors are the ultimate two-for-one: they offer smart storage while making your bedroom look and feel much bigger. Plus, no more fighting for mirror space in the morning!
Smart Space-Enhancing Tips with Mirrors
To get the most out of your mirrors, a little strategy goes a long way:
- Pick the right shape and size: Large mirrors create depth; round mirrors soften sharp corners; full-length mirrors help smaller rooms feel taller.
- Match your frame to your decor: Think frameless mirrors for modern minimalism, rustic wooden frames for a country feel, or sleek black metal for industrial cool.
- Layer your mirrors with other pieces: Place mirrors behind indoor plants, artworks, or pendant lights for an expanded, curated look.
- Choose multipurpose designs: Go for mirrors with built-in shelves, or over-the-door designs if you’re short on wall space.
Common Mirror Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t overcrowd the room: One or two well-placed mirrors are more effective than covering every wall.
- Hang them thoughtfully: Mirrors should be at eye level or aligned with nearby furniture for a natural flow.
- Be mindful of reflections: Mirrors reflect everything, so make sure they’re bouncing back something you actually want to see (not your laundry basket!).
- Invest in quality: Cheap mirrors can distort reflections, making your space feel chaotic rather than calm.
Find the Right Mirror for Your Style
Looking to match your mirror to your apartment’s vibe? Here are a few easy ideas:
- Modern Minimalist: Go frameless or choose geometric shapes for a clean, crisp look.
- Boho Beauty: Think rattan-framed mirrors, vintage finds, and layered textures.
- Industrial Edge: Opt for black metal-framed mirrors or large grid styles.
- Scandi Calm: Pick round mirrors with timber frames in soft neutral tones.
- Glam Touch: Add a luxe feel with gold-framed mirrors or mirrored furniture pieces.
Ready to Transform Your Space?
Adding a few well-placed mirrors is one of the smartest moves you can make to open up your small apartment. Whether you lean into a statement piece, mirrored furniture, or subtle accents, you’ll be amazed at the difference a simple mirror can make.
Keen to find the perfect mirror?
Check out the stylish range at Best World Australia — packed with designs that are as practical as they are beautiful. Your dream apartment is just a reflection away.
