Mirrored furniture adds a touch of glamor and spaciousness to any room, but it also presents a unique decorating challenge. The reflective surface can amplify clutter, create harsh glare, or clash with your personal style if not managed correctly. Learning how to cover mirrored furniture is the key to transforming a potentially jarring piece into a versatile and elegant asset in your home.
Why You Might Want to Cover a Mirror
The decision to cover a mirror is often driven by practical and aesthetic considerations. In smaller spaces or darker rooms, a large mirror can sometimes make a space feel cavernous or cause uncomfortable glare from windows or lamps. Additionally, the frame itself might be outdated, damaged, or simply not match your current decor vision. Covering the mirror allows you to neutralize its reflective properties, giving you a blank canvas to work with and integrating the piece seamlessly into your overall design scheme.
Temporary Solutions for Renters
For those who are unable to make permanent changes to their furniture, there are several effective temporary methods. These options are ideal for renters or anyone looking to change the look of a room frequently without committing to a single style.
- Applying Decorative Film: Frosted or patterned window film can be cut to size and applied directly to the mirror surface. It adheres without damaging the glass and can be easily removed, offering a subtle, diffused look.
- Hanging Fabric Panels: Lightweight curtains or fabric panels on a tension rod can be hung in front of the mirror. This adds texture, color, and sound absorption while still allowing the mirror to be visible if needed.
Permanent and Stylish Makeovers
For a more definitive transformation, you can alter the mirror's surface or its frame. This approach requires a bit more effort but yields a custom, built-in look that elevates the entire room.
Painting the Frame
If the issue is simply the outdated frame, a fresh coat of paint can work wonders. A bold color can make a statement, while a neutral tone can help the furniture blend into the background. Ensure the surface is cleaned and lightly sanded before applying a primer designed for the material—whether it's wood, metal, or plastic.
Using Furniture Covers
Similar to covering a sofa, you can use a fitted slipcover specifically designed for mirrors. This method is particularly effective for oval or uniquely shaped mirrors, as it provides a clean, tailored look. Choose a fabric with texture or a subtle pattern to add depth and interest to an otherwise flat surface.
| Method | Best For | Permanence |
|---|---|---|
| Painting the Frame | Updating the look of a wooden or metal frame | Semi-Permanent |
| Applying Fabric | Adding texture and softness to the mirror surface | Semi-Permanent |
| Decals and Murals | Creating a bold artistic statement | Temporary to Semi-Permanent |
Incorporating the Piece into Your Design
Once the mirror is covered, you can treat the furniture as a standard cabinet or console. Group decorative objects, books, or plants on the shelf or surface to create a curated vignette. This shifts the focus from the mirror's reflective quality to the items you've chosen to display, allowing the piece to serve a functional storage purpose without overwhelming the room.
Tips for Choosing the Right Cover
When selecting a method, consider the surrounding decor and the mood you want to create. A velvet cover will introduce drama and luxury, perfect for a sophisticated bedroom or boho-inspired living room. Conversely, a painted finish in a matte white or soft gray can create a clean, modern backdrop in a minimalist kitchen or hallway. The goal is to ensure the covered mirror feels like a deliberate design choice rather than a workaround.
