Bold and unapologetically expressive, mirrors are emerging as trendy statement pieces. Often oversized or sculptural, these designs feature striking frames, unconventional shapes or ornate detailing that command attention rather than fade into the background. To understand how to choose one wisely, we spoke with Laetitia Laurent, founder and principal designer of Boca Raton–based Laure Nell Interiors.
Design With Purpose
“I always tell clients to start with intention, not aesthetics alone,” Laurent says. Maximalism does not mean “without purpose,” after all. Ask yourself, “What’s the mirror’s role in the room?”
“Is it meant to anchor a wall, reflect light, add drama or introduce an artistic element? Once that is clear, you can evaluate scale, placement and style more intelligently,” Laurent says. She adds that statement mirrors are successful when they are “bold, but still grounded in the architecture and rhythm of the room.”
Size Matters
Scale is the next step. “A mirror that is too small will feel decorative rather than intentional, while one that is too large can overwhelm the space,” Laurent says. Dimensions are also important. “The mirror should feel in dialogue with furniture, lighting and ceiling height,” she continues. A mirror well-chosen can “amplify natural light, visually expand a space and create a strong focal point that elevates the entire room. It can also reinforce symmetry or intentionally disrupt [the room] in a compelling way.” That kind of impact hinges on getting the proportions right: “If chosen incorrectly, a mirror can feel awkward, reflect unflattering views or compete with other design elements. Instead of enhancing the space, it can introduce visual noise or imbalance.”
Think Long Term
Maximalist mirrors are a trend, yes, but when choosing one, you should consider how it will live in your home long term. “The biggest mistake is choosing purely for trend without considering longevity. A mirror should feel exciting, but also timeless enough to live with,” Laurent says. That’s where material quality comes into play. “With maximalist mirrors especially, the frame construction, finish and glass quality matter enormously. A bold design only works if it is executed well.” Laurent suggests “high quality, distortion-free glass with proper backing and moisture resistance where needed” in living spaces, while bathrooms call for “mirrors rated for humidity to prevent desilvering,” which causes the reflective surface to corrode.