Choosing the perfect mirror for a small bathroom goes beyond style—it's about making the most of your space.
The right shape can not only enhance the room's function but also create a sense of openness and light.
Keep reading for expert tips on selecting the ideal framed mirror shape that’ll transform your compact bathroom.
What shape mirror works best in a small bathroom to make it feel larger and brighter?
Oval or round bathroom mirrors with lights are perfect for small bathrooms. Their softer lines create the illusion of space, while they reflect light, making the room feel larger and brighter.
Key Takeaways
- Round Mirrors: Perfect for softening sharp angles in small bathrooms and creating a more open feel.
- Oval Mirrors: Offer elegance and add a sense of space, ideal for small, narrow bathrooms.
- Square or Rectangular Mirrors: Great for modern aesthetics, providing a clean and contemporary look.
- Wall-Mounted Mirrors: Save space and offer more flexibility, especially in smaller bathrooms.
Why Mirror Shape Matters in Small Bathrooms
In smaller spaces, every detail counts. Choosing the right mirror shape is important not only for style but for how it can affect the perception of space.
The right mirror shape can help reflect more light, add depth, and make the room appear larger than it is.
Mirrors with the right proportions can also help draw attention to focal points in the bathroom, such as your sink, vanity, or shower area.
1. Maximising Light and Space
A carefully chosen mirror can help maximise natural light, making the room feel brighter.
Mirrors reflect both light and space, so in a small bathroom, a well-placed mirror can give the illusion of a larger, airier room.
Different shapes can also create a sense of flow or balance in the room, depending on the available space.
2. Complementing Bathroom Design
The mirror shape should complement the overall design of your bathroom. Whether you have a modern, traditional, or minimalist style, the right mirror shape can enhance the room’s look.
For example, small bathroom mirrors can soften a harsh, boxy space, while angular mirrors can add a more structured, contemporary touch.
Popular Mirror Shapes for Small Bathrooms
Now that we know why mirror shape matters, let’s explore the most popular mirror shapes for small bathrooms and how each can work to your advantage.
1. Round Mirrors
Round mirrors are a timeless and versatile choice for small bathrooms. Their soft curves help to soften the lines and angles of small spaces, making the room feel more open and less cramped.
Why Choose a Round Mirror?
- Soften Harsh Angles: The gentle curves of round mirrors balance out angular designs in smaller bathrooms.
- Create the Illusion of Space: Round mirrors don’t have the sharp edges that rectangular or square mirrors have, which can help open up the space and make it feel less confined.
- Flexible Design: They work well with any style, from traditional to modern, and are great for both above the sink or in a vanity setting.
Where to Place a Round Mirror?
Above a pedestal sink or small vanity. On a feature wall to draw attention and break up boxy angles in the room. Near tubs or showers for a soft, relaxing touch.
2. Oval Mirrors
Oval mirrors offer a more elongated version of the round mirror.
Their subtle curves provide elegance and can help elongate the look of your small bathroom, adding a sense of space and openness.
Why Choose an Oval Mirror?
- Enhance Vertical Space: Oval mirrors can help draw the eye upward, making the room feel taller and more expansive.
- Sleek, Elegant Design: Oval mirrors add a touch of sophistication to the bathroom, making them ideal for creating a modern or elegant aesthetic.
- Versatile: They work well in both narrow and compact spaces, helping to fill vertical areas without overwhelming the room.
Where to Place an Oval Mirror?
Above a narrow vanity or sink to create a vertical effect. In a corner to add dimension and soften the space. As part of a decorative setup to enhance the room's elegance.
3. Square Mirrors
For a more contemporary or minimalist look, square mirrors are an excellent choice.
Their clean lines and geometric shape complement modern, simple bathroom designs. Square mirrors can also help create balance and structure in small spaces.
Why Choose a Square Mirror?
- Clean and Modern Aesthetic: Square mirrors provide sharp lines and a symmetrical appearance, ideal for sleek, contemporary bathrooms.
- Maximise Wall Space: Square mirrors can fit neatly above a small sink or vanity, optimising the use of your bathroom’s limited wall space.
- Functional Design: A square mirror offers ample reflection and makes it easier to apply makeup, shave, or perform grooming tasks.
Where to Place a Square Mirror?
Above a wall-mounted vanity for a modern, structured look. In a corner nook to maximise space. In bathrooms with minimalist design or industrial-style décor.
4. Rectangular Mirrors
Rectangular mirrors are the most popular choice for bathrooms of all sizes. Their long shape works well in small bathrooms because it helps to visually elongate the space, making it feel larger and more open.
Rectangular mirrors are also perfect for larger vanities or wide sinks.
Why Choose a Rectangular Mirror?
- Visual Elongation: The long lines of a rectangular mirror draw the eye upward and outward, helping to make your bathroom feel taller and more spacious.
- Classic Design: Rectangular mirrors have a timeless, classic look that works with almost any bathroom style, from traditional to contemporary.
- Ideal for Wide Sinks: If you have a wider vanity or sink, a rectangular mirror will help balance the proportions and ensure it doesn’t look too small for the space.
Where to Place a Rectangular Mirror?
Above a wide vanity or double sink. Near a shower area or bathtub to create symmetry. On a feature wall to complement other bathroom elements.
Additional Tips for Hanging a Bathroom Mirror in a Small Space
Beyond choosing the right shape, there are a few more tips for hanging your oval bathroom mirror to maximise the space in a small bathroom:
1. Mount the Mirror at Eye Level
To ensure comfort and functionality, it’s important to hang the mirror at eye level. This way, you’ll be able to see yourself clearly when using the sink or applying makeup.
2. Consider a Frameless Mirror for a Sleek Look
If you want your bathroom to feel less cluttered, consider a frameless mirror. These mirrors offer a clean, minimalist look and can help make your space feel more open and spacious.
3. Use Mirrors to Create the Illusion of Space
Mirrors naturally reflect light, which can make your bathroom appear larger and brighter. Place your mirror opposite a window or light source to maximise its light-reflecting potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What mirror shape makes a small bathroom look bigger?
Round or oval mirrors can help make a small bathroom appear larger by softening harsh angles and creating the illusion of more space.
2. How high should I hang a bathroom mirror in a small space?
Hang the round bathroom mirror at eye level, typically around 5 feet (1.5 metres) from the floor, depending on the height of the people using it.
3. Are there mirrors that help with both style and space in small bathrooms?
Yes! Frameless, oval, or rectangular mirrors are perfect for small spaces, offering both style and the ability to make the bathroom feel larger.
Conclusion
Choosing the right mirror for your small bathroom doesn’t just come down to size—it’s about selecting the right shape that enhances both the functionality and the aesthetics of your space.
Whether you choose a mirror to soften sharp angles, an oval mirror for elegance, or a rectangular mirror for a clean, modern look, the right mirror will help reflect light, increase space, and elevate the design of your bathroom.
Take the time to consider the shape that works best for your needs, and enjoy a more organised, spacious bathroom every day.