Let bathroom mirrors work their magic

Expert advice on bathroom mirrors from Di Riddell, mirror designer for In Ex Living.

Q. What functions can they perform?

A. Mirrors in the bathroom can reflect light or a lovely view and increase the feeling of spaciousness, particularly in small bathrooms. They can also be magnified for putting on make-up or shaving and made into trays for cosmetics, a side table or used for splashbacks.

Q. What are innovative ways of using mirrors in bathrooms?

A. You can use different shapes, angles and patterns, such as mirrored tiles with bevelled edges laid out in a brick pattern. Mirror in the bathroom can be aged or in various colours such as bronze and even black. You can still see yourself in it, but I wouldn't use it as the work bathroom mirror.

Q. What's one of the most interesting designs you've done.

A. We hung a round mirror by a leather belt from the ceiling with a big stainless-steel bolt. Anything goes these days, rather than the conventional bathroom mirror frames of a few years ago. You don't have to have a leather strap; you could use silk or have a bronze mirror instead of plain.

Q. Do you have to be an exhibitionist to have a bathroom wall of mirrors?

A. No; it suits anyone. You just learn not to look in it as you go past. That's what I do. I only look at myself when I have to put my lippy on. You can also use different coloured mirrors or bathroom mirror frames to lessen the effect - such as grey or bronze.

Q. Are there pitfalls to using mirrors in the bathroom?

A. Not really. Bathrooms are generally small, so you should use a lot of mirrors to maximise the feeling of space. This is also true for laundries and kitchens.

Q. How has the use of bathroom mirrors changed over the years?

A. Years ago people had fewer options: just the typical gold-framed mirror for the bathrrom, whole mirrored vanities or a big plain mirror that was clad straight on to the wall over the bathroom vanity. Anything can be designed now.