Should you place a mirror above a fireplace? Ask one hundred interior designers, and you are likely to get one hundred different answers.
Sparking up the debate once again, the controversial design choice features as a bold focal point in actress Eva Mendes’ living room.
Eva’s mantelpiece decor, spotted in a recent Instagram post, consists of a large rectangular mirror positioned above a white marble fireplace. It reflects the paintings, white walls, and crown molding in the back of the room.
Though some design choices are a clear yes or clear no, the consensus around a mirror above a fireplace, as seen in Mendes’s space, is much muddier.
Many designers swear by Eva’s living room mirror idea.
The acclaimed NYC-based designer Kathy Kuo gushes to Homes & Gardens: ‘A mirror styled above a fireplace mantel is a look we see over and over again for good reason – it’s classic and chic, and it works in pretty much any space.’
She adds: ‘I love the way mirrors reflect light, making any room appear brighter (and bigger) than it actually is. This look also offers plenty of styling options. Either let the mirror shine on its own or create a layered vignette with the mirror against the wall and a few decorative accents in the foreground—think sculptural objects, books, framed photos, vases, or candles.
Others, however, are less sure about Mendes’s fireplace idea.
Paulina Hospod, design expert at NYC-based AhA! Interiors states: ‘I typically avoid hanging anything above a fireplace. To me, the fireplace is the focal point—it stands out best when finished with a beautiful mantle or striking stone or tile cladding.’
‘Adding a mirror often reflects the surroundings, which can make the area feel visually cluttered and distract from the fireplace’s presence,’ she continues. ‘I don’t see any real advantages to doing so; it’s similar to placing a TV above a fireplace—something I generally advise against.’
Shop editors picks
Ornate Metal Wall Mirror (Set of 3)
This set of three mirrors gives any wall a vintage feel. I love the historic energy.
Desdemone Metal Convex Wall Mirror
We love how these convex mirrors create an optical illusion, making any space feel vast. It could be an interesting contrast to a more traditional large mirror above the mantelpiece.
This antique-style mirror has an ornate brass frame. It would be perfect for drawing the eye up in a high-ceilinged room.
Though it’s perfectly reasonable to have a hard and fast opinion on Eva’s mantel decor idea, the truth is, how good or bad the decision looks depends on its styling.
Kathy Kuo, who is generally pro the look, qualifies: ‘A mirror that’s too big or too small can look a bit out of place. As a general rule of thumb, aim for a mirror that’s about two-thirds the width of the mantel.’
What do you think? Do you love a mirror above the fireplace or hate it? Let us know in the comments.
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