Where Should a Mirror Be Placed In a Walk-in Closet?

Every design choice within the parameters of custom cabinetry serves a dual purpose, seamlessly marrying stylish aesthetics with optimal functionality. And, while helping our customers decide on the positioning of well-considered accessories, we often get asked: Where should a mirror be placed in a walk-in wardrobe? 

This valid concern is a critical element in the overall conceptualisation process and will help to transform your simple storage solutions into a glamorous dressing room. 

Widely acclaimed for their ability to visually enlarge spaces and amplify natural light, mirrors are a must-have. Adding elegance and impact, they also enhance your daily routine, ensuring that you are beautifully turned out at the start of each day.

Join our expert team as they chat about where to place them in your walk-in wardrobe for optimal effect. 

Exploring the two types of mirror placements

There are two types of mirrors used in wardrobes: exterior and interior. The former are usually freestanding or can be mounted on the outside of your cabinetry, while the latter are installed on the inside of cupboard doors.

Generally, mirrors in a walk-in wardrobe are fitted outside the confines of your shelving and hanging rails. 

However, if you’re planning built-in cabinetry and don’t want reflective finishes, the use of an interior mirror will enable you to check your appearance simply by opening a door. 

Whichever route you’re going, strategic placement is key, so read on to find out more. 

Choosing the right mirror for your space

“The best way to determine what type of mirror you need for your walk-in wardrobe is by figuring out the function of the space,” advises Ricardo Jarjoura, FCI London’s top architect and interior designer. “If it’s sizable, you probably have an area for dressing in and a station where you can do hair and make-up, so you’ll need to plan accordingly.” 

Here are some pointers:

Harmonising your design theme: 

Choose a mirror that blends in nicely with the style of your wardrobe, ensuring that it enhances the overall look and feel of your space. 

If your theme is elaborate, we advise that you go for something vintage with an intricate wood or gilded frame. However, for a more contemporary aesthetic, your focus should be on clean lines and a minimalist profile.

Proportioning its size: 

Make sure that you neither dominate nor underwhelm the other elements in your dressing space by picking out something in proportionate size. 

If you have lots of room, then the Extra Large collection by Kristalia would be an excellent consideration. For a slimmer profile, take a look at the Zed mirror by Gallotti & Radice. 

Fulfilling its purpose: 

The size and shape of your mirror should correspond with its intended purpose, ensuring that it performs its intended function efficiently. 

If you’re aiming for something decorative to create a focal point, search for an eye-catching design like the Solaris Mirror by Eichholtz. On the other hand, if you’re using it for applying make-up, you’ll need something more practical, preferably with built-in LEDs.

How to plan where to put your wardrobe mirrors?

“Correctly positioning your mirrors is a strategic exercise and really just takes a bit of common sense,” explains Cristina Chirila, our senior interior designer. “Think about your space holistically and decide on what best works for both you and your decor aspirations”

Here are some of her dos and don’ts:

• Carefully consider the practical purpose of mirrors in a walk-in wardrobe and make sure that you position them in places that fulfil that duty. They should be angled to give you the best possible view of your clothing and accessories in a well-conceived, effortless way.  
• They have the ability to maximise the sensation of space, so If you’re working in a confined area, use them extensively or even opt for a mirror-finish on your doors. 
• Full-length mirrors should be placed in an open area that allows you to step back a few paces for a top-to-tail view. After all, there’s nothing worse than looking at yourself in a stylish outfit without being able to see your shoes. 
• Don't place your mirror behind obstructions such as seating or a peninsula. Again, the goal is to see yourself from head to toe.
• Be careful of what’s captured in its reflection. If it’s facing open shelving, for example, you might find yourself looking at a pile of clutter, especially if you’re a bit messy. Instead, position it so that it captures something you find aesthetically pleasing, like a beautiful artwork or some elegant doors.
• Mirrors assist in bouncing and enhancing natural light, making your walk-in look bright and welcoming. The trick is to take advantage of this feature while positioning them in such a way that they don’t catch the glare from a window. 
• Feng Shui experts will advise against mirrors that face each other. So, if you’re installing more than one, make sure that they complement attractive elements of the room rather than create an endless infinity effect. 

Clever ways to use a mirror in a walk-in wardrobe

While we all tend to focus on full-length or dressing table mirrors in our wardrobes, there are other applications that will help to enhance your space. 

Here are 3 that will inspire you:

An accessories mirror:

Add a small mirror above a counter or dresser so that you can check your hair, make-up and accessories. You could also add a light and turn it into a vanity station.  

A shoe mirror: 

Mirror-panel the bottom section of your walk-in wardrobe island so that you can check out your new shoes. 

A safe mirror: 

Hide the entrance to a flush-mounted safe or jewellery compartment with a mirror. It will help to up your security levels and keep your valuables discreetly tucked away.

How much do mirrors cost in a walk-in wardrobe?

With so many options to choose from, placing a fixed price on installing mirrors in your cabinetry isn’t possible. 

However, if you’ve already decided on what you’re aiming for in terms of overall design and accessories, use our simple online cost calculator to get an instant estimate.  

Shop custom cabinetry at FCI London

At FCI, we can create anything you want in terms of custom wardrobes and have a plethora of beautiful mirrors and accessories that can be added to enhance their functionality and style. 

To find out more about our expert offerings, get in touch with our design team today or pop into our showroom for a chat and a guided tour.