Mirror with a shelf in the hallway: types and tips for selection
Perhaps not a single hallway interior will look complete and complete if there is no mirror in it. And in order for it to be also a functional element, you can turn your attention to a model with a shelf. Let's take a closer look at why you need a mirror in the hallway, what function the shelf performs, how to properly position the product in the room.
What is it for?
The mirror in the hallway can serve several functions. First of all, the most obvious is when the item is used for its intended purpose. Any of us, when gathering or before leaving the house, looks in the mirror. Many people apply creams or masks in front of the mirror, correct their hair, or even rehearse an important speech for events and performances, observing their facial expressions. Many mirrors have decorative frames that can not only be matched to the main concept of the interior, but also make it the main detail. In addition, medium-sized products will help fill in the space on an empty wall, so that the hallway does not look empty, but at the same time remains spacious.
A mirror with shelves carries additional functionality, since it serves not only its intended purpose, but can also be used to store various little things, for example, hair bands, small jars of creams, stands with combs and keys from the front door or from the car. Besides, many designers know the trick of placing mirrors. For example, a correctly positioned mirror in a certain place can visually increase the space, this also applies to models with a shelf.
Therefore, in a small hallway, where there is no place for cabinets, there must be a beautiful mirror.
Varieties and models
There are many varieties of shelf mirrors, all of which have their own characteristics and are subdivided according to some characteristics. Let's take a closer look at the classification of this piece of furniture.
By form
Round models are quite common and mainly in small rooms, since they can significantly save space. As a rule, they are not very large and can reach only 50 centimeters in diameter. The shelf for such products is located in the lower part of the surface, separating a small part of it. Square mirrors are ideal for filling the center portion of an empty wall in large spaces. The shelf for such products is located either in the lower part of the reflective surface, or fixed at its lower edge, at an angle of 90 degrees.
Quite often there are rectangular models, which, as a rule, are very tall and display a person at full height. For such models, it makes no sense to make a shelf in the lower part, therefore this element is located at the top or in the middle of the reflective surface. Products with side small shelves and models with compact drawers for small items are also popular.
By location method
In addition to differences in the shape of the product, there are also differences in the method of placement and mounting options. The wall model is the most compact and, depending on its size, can be placed anywhere in the hallway, both in addition to a furniture set, and as an independent element. The fastening methods for such a product may be different, but the principle is the same - the mirror is fixed on the wall with self-tapping screws... In some cases, adhesive elements are used, but they are not reliable.
A floor mirror is suitable for rooms with sufficient free space, as these mirrors most often have legs or stands that can take up space. There are also hinged options designed for wall mounting.
Colors and decor
In order for the mirror to harmoniously fit into the interior of the room, it is necessary to take into account its decorative finish and the colors that are used in this case. When it comes to such products, it becomes clear that the entire decor will be concentrated in one single element. In this case, this element is the frame for the reflective surface and the shelf. The width of both of these parts can be different and is chosen based on personal preference.
For example, a wide frame with carved patterns will suit those who are trying to adhere to the classic style in the interior. Moreover, both large and small products can have such frames. And in order for it to easily fit into the sophistication of the classics, it is recommended to pay attention to the models in brown, beige and dusty pink tones.
Products with a minimalistic narrow frame and a small shelf can fit any interior, as they look quite neutral.
The main thing is to guess correctly with the color scheme - for a bright room, you need to choose neutral shades, for example, beige, light pink, powder color or white, but for a light hallway, on the contrary, a bright accent is needed. There are also models of various non-standard shapes, for example, in the form of a triangle or shark fin, irregular trapezoid, oval and many others. Most often, such products have a barely noticeable frame and a neutral shelf, since they themselves are the main focus.
Features of choice
To choose a quality product, it is recommended to take into account some important nuances.
- The reflective surface must be perfectly flat, without any bumps or spots. And the reflection in the mirror should not be distorted.
- If there is no frame, then you need to make sure that the edges of the object are smoothed and will not harm you and other inhabitants of the apartment. It is especially important to consider this if there are children in the house.
- You should also make sure that the back of the mirror has a smooth surface, as this directly affects the quality of the reflection. In addition, you need to know that the glass is thick enough to maintain its original appearance, since too thin a material can change shape over time and distort the image on a reflective surface.
- The shelf and the frame of the mirror should be made of the same material, since this way the composition will be uniform and harmonious. In addition, the shelf must be securely fixed.
- The wood, plastic or metal used to make the shelves and frames must be of high quality and strong enough to withstand the load during use. It is especially worth taking care that the metals are safe for health.
- Make sure that the mounts can support the weight of the mirror and that the floor models are reasonably stable.
And, of course, you need to pay attention to the appearance of the mirror and make a choice in favor of a product that fits most organically into the design of the hallway space.
Placement Tips
As mentioned earlier, a correctly placed mirror can favorably emphasize the features of the interior and visually expand the space. And with an unfortunate location, it can even ruin the entire design idea. That's why when placing such a piece of furniture, you should take care that the mirror is not opposite the front door... Some believe that in this way evil spirits will penetrate into the apartment, which through the reflective surface will harm the inhabitants of the house.
Others adhere to a different version that light energy enters the house through the front door, which may be reflected and not linger in the room. In fact, by hanging this item in front of the front door, you and other inhabitants of the apartment risk simply being frightened of surprise, each time seeing your moving reflection upon entering. This does not apply to options for placing products on the sides of the door, since in such cases the effect will not be as strong.
Besides a mirror with a shelf located on the side of the entrance will be a very functional solution, since you can immediately fold your keys or phone onto the shelf, freeing your hands to safely remove your outerwear and shoes. An original design move would be to place a reflective surface in front of some special ornament on the wall or a beautiful painting. Thus, the reflection will be perceived as part of the whole composition.
And to make the room seem more spacious and bright, it is necessary to arrange the object so that daylight falls into it or a light free wall is reflected, without ornaments and decor.
Additional elements
A mirror with a shelf, located in the hallway, may need to be supplemented with any other interior items. For example, lighting fixtures can be helpful when getting ready in the morning when everyone else in the house is still asleep, or when applying makeup when good lighting is especially important. Both wall lamps mounted on the sides of the mirror and a small floor lamp located on the side of it will look beautiful. Also, in addition to a small wall mirror, you can purchase a chest of drawers that will match the style of the frame and shelf of the reflective product.
Beautiful examples
Stylish growth mirror in dark brown color is equipped with a wide enough elongated shelf, which can easily accommodate not only small things, but even a handbag.
The original round model with a double shelf looks quite elegant and will easily fit into the frames of any style.In this interior, this piece of furniture is very harmoniously combined with a chest of drawers.
The small rectangular mirror has two shelves. One of them includes a functional element - a compact storage box.
The shelf of this oval product is very compact, small in size, so it is suitable for storing only small items. And the product itself looks quite sophisticated, so it will fit into the style of the classics.
For information on how to make a backlit mirror with your own hands, see the next video.