As décor curators of antique, French and contemporary furniture and accessories, we try not to be partial to specific pieces. But, if you could only choose one item for your modern interior, our suggestion would be to source an antique mirror for sale. Antique mirrors are central style elements that no home (or room) should be without. As any designer’s or homeowner’s pièce de résistance – for any and every space – they blend the past with the present by infusing a touch of history and a bespoke narrative into contemporary rooms.   

Large mirrors were associated with a certain idea of life, a taste for splendour and performance that only certain classes and professions could enjoy. They were a hallmark of social standing and all beautiful houses had to have them. –Sabine Melchior-Bonnet (The Mirror | A History)

We have come a long way from antique mirrors being a symbol of aristocratic luxuriousness. No matter how functional these everyday pieces have become, they still retain a little of their historical glamour and specialness as modern-day interior design moments.  

#1 Create a focal point

The ornate elegance and delicate craftsmanship of antique mirrors immediately render them bold statements. As natural hero pieces, their presence in a room cannot be ignored.   

Whether in the living room above the fireplace or in an entryway, powder room or bathroom, an intricately designed mirror will always draw the eye and become a conversation piece. Paired with minimalist furniture and neutral tones, mirrors – in whatever finish or patina – take centre stage. 

#2 Create the illusion of space

Small spaces benefit greatly from the reflective illusion of depth that mirrors provide. Strategically placing antique décor mirrors in tight or narrow areas immediately creates the feeling of a larger, airier space. Consider placing them opposite windows to create a captivating visual effect, making your room feel more expansive, interesting and welcoming.

#3 Create a gallery wall

A cleverly curated collage of antique mirrors – thoughtfully grouped together – creates an artistic vignette that will be the talk of the town. As a collector, this is where you can have a little decor fun mixing shapes and sizes from different periods and styles, showcasing a bespoke design story that represents your personality. It’s also an opportunity to break a few interior design ‘rules;’ playing with symmetry, or going for an asymmetrical dynamic display. 

#4 Create a headboard

Never limit the decor versatility of antique mirrors; their design opportunities will surprise you at every turn as they don’t force you to ‘colour in the lines.’ A truly inspirational way to showcase the beauty of an antique mirror is to repurpose it as a headboard, allowing you to create an ‘out-the-box’ impression that will elevate the decor accessories of the room with unusual flair. 

#5 Create eclectic harmony

Juxtaposing antique mirrors with modern furnishings is a seamless way of blending the old with the new. The contrast between the heritage charm of the mirror and the sleek lines of contemporary furniture creates a harmonious and eclectic design. (Once again, there are no rules). This ‘mix-don’t-match’ philosophy is where antiques in modern interiors shine. 

#6 Create a storage showpiece

An antique armoire never fails to impress, but when you add bevelled mirrors to these storage beauties, the design narrative reaches new heights, transforming the surroundings they inhabit. Mirrored storage pieces add practical opulence, reflective beauty and a surprising sense of subtle luxury to the rooms they grace; highlighting the pieces they ‘mirror’ as well as creating the illusion of extra space. 

#7 Create a French-style aesthetic

If you cannot resist the decor beauty and timeless charm of French-style aesthetics, then antique décor mirrors  – or mirrored screens – are choice pieces to help you achieve the look and dialogue successfully with your modern aesthetic. No matter the finish you prefer – natural wood, bleached, stained, painted, gilded or silver – you can never go wrong by investing in a French-style mirror. 

Antique mirrors for sale at The Crown Collection

Antique mirrors have proven to be way more than traditional ‘looking glasses’. They are desirable decorative and sought-after accessories that open up a space, enhance any room’s look and feel, and draw attention to other design details. 

If you want to layer your design, add dimension, complement your existing decor, or simply showcase a statement piece in your modern interior, our vast selection of handpicked antique mirrors for sale won’t disappoint.

Shop over 250 antique mirrors for sale online or in-store at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston.