Oval Mirrors: Why Your Room Might Need Some Curves
Go on, have a quick look around whatever room you're in. I bet it's a box. A box filled with other boxes. Your TV, your cupboards, the windows, the tiles. It's all straight lines and ninety-degree angles. Which is fine, it's normal. But it can get a bit... rigid. This is where something as simple as an oval mirror can be a bit of a game-changer. Seriously. At The Blue Space, we've seen it heaps of times. A customer swaps out their boring old rectangle for an oval, and the whole room just sort of sighs in relief. It just feels nicer.
What's the Big Deal with an Oval Shape Anyway?
Okay, so it’s not a perfect circle, which can feel a bit full-on sometimes. And it’s obviously not a square. It’s that in-between shape, a bit like a stretched-out bubble. This gives it a real touch of elegance. A bit of class. And you can hang it tall and skinny, or long and wide. That flexibility is gold. It means you can make it work in all sorts of weird spots. It’s why you see them popping up in so many designer homes lately. They just work.
Alright, Where Do These Things Actually Go?
The great thing about an oval mirror is it's not a one-trick pony. It can pretty much go anywhere and look good doing it. They’re probably the most versatile wall mirrors you can get your hands on.
The Loo. The Bathroom. The Ensuite.
This is prime real estate for an oval mirror. Bathrooms are the definition of hard surfaces. An oval mirror is the perfect way to soften it all up. Got a standard single vanity? A tall oval hanging above it looks mint. Instant focal point. If you've got a big double vanity, you can get creative. Two matching ovals, one over each sink, gives you that fancy hotel vibe. Or, and this is a pro move, one massive oval hung sideways across the whole length makes the room feel huge. A simple trick that works a treat.
That Hallway You Always Forget About
Entryways are important. It’s the first thing people see. An oval mirror there is a no-brainer. It's where you do the last-minute check before you're out the door. But it does more than that. Hallways can be poky and dark. A mirror bounces light around and makes everything feel bigger. A tall, skinny oval can even fake a higher ceiling. Stick it over a slim table with a bowl for your keys, and boom. You've got a proper entrance.
The Bedroom
You want your bedroom to be a sanctuary, yeah? Well, the soft shape of an oval mirror helps with that. It's just calmer than something with sharp points. Pop one over your drawers or a dressing table and it's both pretty and practical. It’s less 'office' and more 'oasis'. It won't give you the top-to-toe view like a proper full-length mirror would, but for doing your face or just adding a decorative touch, it’s perfect. Feeling bold? Get a massive one and just lean it against the wall. Looks ace.
Yep, Even the Living Room
Don't sleep on the living room. An oval mirror is basically art that makes your room look bigger. Got a big empty wall staring at you? An oval mirror could be the answer. Hung sideways over the sofa or the fireplace, it looks incredible. It'll grab the light from a window and throw it around the room. Find one with an interesting frame, and you've got yourself a real feature piece.
Let's Talk Specifics: Types, Sizes, and All That Jazz
Not all oval mirrors are created equal. The little details make all the difference, so let's get into it.
To Frame or Not to Frame? That is the Question.
This is your first choice, and it's a big one.
Framed Ovals
The frame is what gives a mirror its attitude. You can match it to your taps or handles to make everything feel connected. A thin black frame is very now. A brass frame feels a bit luxe. A nice timber frame brings in some warmth. A framed mirror just feels solid and complete.
Frameless Ovals
These are for the minimalists. Nothing but a clean, polished edge. A frameless mirror sort of floats on the wall. They’re brilliant for small rooms cause they don't take up any visual space. It’s a very clean, slick look that lets the shape be the hero.
Getting the Size Right
Don’t mess this up. A tiny mirror over a big vanity looks ridiculous. A huge mirror over a tiny sink is just as bad. Here's a tip I always give people: for a bathroom, choose a mirror that’s a bit skinnier than your vanity. If your vanity is 900mm wide, look for a mirror about 500 or 600mm wide. It just looks right. For other rooms, you can go a bit wild. No rules there, just do what feels right.
Mirrors with Gadgets
These days, mirrors can do more than just show your reflection. Some are pretty clever.
LED Lights
You know the ones. Mirrors with lights built-in are bloody brilliant. Some have a glow from behind that looks really cool, and others have a light at the front which is perfect for seeing what you’re doing when you're getting ready. No more dodgy shadows.
Anti-Fog Stuff
Nothing worse than a steamy, useless mirror after a shower. A mirror with a demister has a little heater inside that keeps it clear. It’s one of those little luxuries you’ll wonder how you ever lived without.
Brands You Can Trust
You want a mirror that's made well. We're pretty fussy about who we stock.
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If you like techy stuff, Ingrain is a great shout. They build lights and demisters into really slick-looking ovals.
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Thermogroup is another top pick for heated and lit mirrors. Very modern stuff.
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For the timber lovers, you can't go past Timberline. Their wooden-framed ovals are just gorgeous.
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And Marquis makes some really elegant mirrors that match their vanities, which is handy for getting a complete look.
But Are They Really Worth It? (Spoiler: Yes)
Still on the fence? I get it. Here's why I reckon an oval mirror is a smart move.
1. They Take the Edge Off
I said it before, but it's the main thing. A room full of sharp corners can feel a bit aggressive. An oval mirror is like a visual chill pill. It adds a curve, and the whole room just feels a bit softer and more welcoming. It's a tiny change that makes a huge difference to the feel of a space.
2. They Don't Go Out of Style
This isn't some weird trend. Ovals are classic. They looked good fifty years ago, and they'll look good in fifty years. They can be traditional, they can be modern, they can be anything you want. That means you're not going to want to rip it off the wall in a couple of years. It's a safe bet.
3. They're a Bit Different
Everyone has a rectangular mirror. It's the default. An oval shows you've thought about it. It’s an interesting detail that catches the eye. It says "I didn't just go for the first thing I saw".
4. They’re Sneaky Space-Makers
All mirrors make a room feel bigger, we know this. But an oval one is clever about it. With no corners, it feels less heavy on the wall. It gives you the reflection without the bulk. Its cousin, the round mirror, does this too, but the oval's length can be better for seeing more of yourself.
Just a Couple More Things...
Nearly there. Just a few last tips from me to you.
Putting It Up
Please, use a level. A crooked oval mirror will drive you insane. And use the right wall plugs for the weight. Last thing you want is 7 years bad luck from a smashed mirror. If it's got lights, get a professional in. Don't mess with wiring.
Team It Up
Try and match the frame to something else. Black frame, black taps. Easy. Brass frame, brass shower head. You get the idea. It just pulls the whole look together.
Little Helpers
Sometimes you need a close-up. A big oval mirror looks great, but a little magnifying makeup mirror on the side can be a lifesaver. Best of both worlds.
So there you have it. An oval mirror isn't just a mirror. It's a styling choice. A good one. It's a simple way to add a bit of character and softness to a room. It’s one of those things you do, and then you stand back and think, "Yeah, that looks so much better."
