One of the most useful tools in the interior designer’s box of tricks, Mirrors can increase space, reflect, detract and enhance. Bee Osborn shows us how…

Mirror is a great tool to use in interiors as it can instantly make a space feel brighter and more spacious. When hung and placed cleverly, both natural and artificial light can bounce off mirror creating a sense of lightness and openness in a room. It is important to consider what you see in the mirror, as you should always strive to reflect something beautiful.

By using mirror in a recess as I have done in my master bedroom in my cottage, we managed to disguise an old chimney breast and in addition fill an awkward space and give the room depth too.

Mirrors can also be used in a more decorative way, almost as artwork. Oversized mirrors and mirrors with bold frames can function as statement pieces. A gallery wall consisting of a selection of mirrors creates an eclectic feel, and by using repetition and hanging mirrors in a grid style you create a sense of structure and cohesiveness. By introducing convex or concave mirrors you instantly add personality and fun to a space, like in my ‘blue room’ in the cottage.

Mirror also works beautifully in furniture, creating an illusion of space and giving a sophisticated look. The ultimate interior trick is opting for a framed mirror TV, meaning that when the television is turned off it then serves as a decorative item instead.

There are also coloured mirrors, which are fun for splash backs, which is another trick we tend to do, as it brightens up the back of the kitchen plus enables you to see others behind you.  Another favourite mirror we use a lot of is antique mirror and we used it on a hotel project for a fantastically dramatic headboard wall.