Functional and elegant furnishing of a small bathroom is often quite a challenge. Choosing the right fittings and bathroom furniture is just the beginning of the whole process. Equally important, and sometimes even more so, is finding the right accessories and decorations that determine the effect we will achieve while finishing this important room for all household members. A mirror is an element without which it is difficult to imagine a bathroom, serving both functional and aesthetic roles. So, what mirror for a small bathroom will be the best choice?
What will you learn from this article?
- At what height and in which part of the bathroom is a mirror most commonly hung.
- What shape it may have.
- How placing a mirror in the right spot can give the bathroom the desired depth.
What kind of mirror for a small bathroom?
The size of the room often determines the size and number of items that can fit in it. The same applies to the bathroom. When we have a really small space to arrange, every centimetre matters greatly, so it's worth spending some time choosing a bathroom mirror. First of all, consider how much space can be dedicated to hanging a mirror. If you dream of a mirror covering an entire wall, remember that this means you might have to limit other furnishings.
Large mirrors look excellent in minimalistic styled rooms. They work best in large bathrooms, but if you want to optically enlarge your bathroom and can sacrifice some furnishings, you can choose large mirror panels, ideally fitted opposite the door. This way, the bathroom will gain exceptional depth. However, you must maintain perfect order, as a large mirror reflecting the bathroom interior will visually multiply any mess present.
A round mirror is not the only choice for a small bathroom!
Modern bathroom mirrors come in various shapes and sizes, and if you're thinking about which mirror to choose for your bathroom, you might face a dilemma. A mirror for a small bathroom should be adjusted primarily to:
- the bathroom's purpose,
- the needs of the household members.
If it's an additional bathroom mainly used for washing hands, you can choose a more decorative rather than functional model.
However, bathroom mirrors usually serve many functions for residents, such as applying makeup, grooming facial hair, or styling hair. Larger rectangular or round mirrors are noticeably more convenient during use. Mirrors in bathrooms are most frequently mounted on the wall above the sink, and the height of installation depends mainly on the residents' height. It's typically suggested that the mirror's lower edge should not be less than 20 cm above the sink's edge to prevent splashing.
Rectangular or round mirror doesn't have to be on the wall
In a small bathroom, the mirror size is often determined by the amount of free wall space. However, large mirrors don't necessarily have to take up additional space. A bathroom mirror can be replaced by mirrored fronts of cabinets. This way, even a small bathroom can have a mirror that allows a full view of oneself, with the mirror's width matching the width of the piece of furniture with a mirrored front. This solution is perfect for a small space as a cabinet with a mirror provides both storage for bathroom accessories and a mirror.
If the small bathroom feels cramped, it's worth choosing a mirror that can help optically enlarge it. If there's a window in the bathroom, it's good to hang the mirror to reflect natural light, giving the space depth and a more cheerful character on a sunny day. When selecting the right model for your bathroom, be sure to pay attention to the size, style, and shape of the mirror. Simple models are the safest choice as they are functional and suit any interior style. The mirror surface is the most important, while the frames are fashionable accessories that can be easily matched to the rest of the bathroom.
A helpful solution (and increasingly common) is mirror lighting. Built-in lighting supports daily makeup, grooming, and other care activities.
Why does mirror lighting in a small bathroom matter?
Mirror lighting in a small bathroom not only enhances functionality but also adds elegance to the room. In small spaces, opting for LED lighting is ideal as it is energy-efficient and provides even light distribution. This can create a comfortable environment for daily tasks, such as applying makeup or shaving, even in a small bathroom. Mirror lighting can be installed directly on the mirror surface or surrounding it, further emphasizing its design and making the room appear larger and more spacious. This solution is highly recommended for windowless bathrooms where natural light is limited.
If you're considering which mirror to choose for a small bathroom, it might be worthwhile to also consider a round mirror.
- A round mirror in a small bathroom is an excellent choice that brings softness and lightness to the interior. Its shape softens the harsh lines of rectangular furniture and fittings, making the room appear more harmonious.
- A round mirror also works well in a small toilet space, where a large mirror is unnecessary, but a functional element providing character is desirable. Similarly, a small WC can benefit from a well-chosen mirror to visually enhance space. In small rooms like kitchens, a mirror can serve both decorative and practical functions, reflecting light and creating an illusion of a larger space.
- Remember that regardless of shape and size, a mirror should match the interior's style and users' needs to be a cohesive and functional element of the design. And if you want to know about saving water in the shower and explore other bathroom “hacks,” be sure to check our blog.