If you’re lucky enough to have a fireplace in your living room, chances are it’s the stand-out focal point of the entire space. If the kitchen is the heart of the home, the fireplace is definitely the heart of the living room. Around the holidays, even the most novice of interior designers know what to do with this space in terms of decoration (garland, stockings, candles — the options are endless). But what about the other eleven months of the year?

Enter one of the oldest styling tricks in the book: adding a mirror above the fireplace. No matter your design style, a mirror creates aesthetically-pleasing symmetry, allows you to add a new metal to your space, and reflects light around the room, making it appear larger.

Here, our designers share some of their favorite ways to style a mirror above a fireplace, from wall sconces to wallpaper. 

1. Layer Wallpaper

Enhance your mantle mirror by backing it with a playful wallpaper, like a bold floral print or geometric stripe. Whether you wrap the entire wall or simply highlight the vertical column directly above your fireplace, wallpaper is a foolproof way to add drama and depth to a space. 

2. Add Contrast

Hang a round, oval, or abstract mirror above a classic rectangular fireplace for a subtle touch of contrast. We especially love how the above fireplace leans ornate and traditional, while the oversized mirror feels fresh and modern — the juxtaposition between shapes and design styles draws the eye in.

3. Embrace Asymmetry

Everything about this fireplace setup leans asymmetrical, from the one-sided bookcase to the single doorway and mis-matched chairs. The designer embraced the off-balanced look, adding an abstract mirror and decorative mantel accents on the left for a unique, post-modern look that complements the existing architecture. 

4. Mix Different Design Styles

We love how nearly everything in this room is sleek and modern, with clean lines and a muted palette, except the mantle mirror. The arched top and ornate details feel a touch dramatic, like something you’d see in a Parisian pied-à-terre. Don’t be afraid to make a departure from an existing design style in order to incorporate your favorite pieces, or make a unique statement. The magic is often in the mix! 

5. Flank the Mirror

Adding height around your wall-mounted mantle mirror is a good way to create more of a complete vignette to frame the hanging piece. We suggest starting with taller pieces, like oversized candle holders, like the design above, then layering in shorter pieces for a visually-pleasing focal point.

6. Lean With It

You don’t always have to mount the mirror above your mantle! You can simply lean it against the wall for a more laid-back, slightly bohemian vibe, especially if ceiling height is an issue. Styled with tonal stacks of white books and layered candles, the finished look feels relaxed, understated, and elegant.

7. Hang Wall Sconces

For a beautiful and time-honored way to highlight your fireplace mirror, install two sleek sconces on either side. It’s a more permanent investment, as you’ll need to hire an electrician to hardwire the fixtures, but the end result is incredibly classic. Consider matching the lighting finish to your mirror, or opting for a mixed metal moment, like matte black and brass. 

8. Mix Metals

When selecting your fireplace mirror, consider a finish that’s either darker or lighter than the surround for a design-forward touch of contrast. In the above space, we love how the brass mirror pops against the sleek black fireplace and cobalt paint. Plus, it complements the brass picture lights on either side of the mantel. It’s simple, but beautiful!

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