What size mirror should I choose for a small hallway in a South African home?

For narrow hallways, a mirror as slim as 40-60 cm wide works well. This size provides function without overwhelming the space.

How do I hang a heavy mirror on plasterboard walls?

For heavier mirrors, we recommend using wall anchors or a French cleat to ensure secure mounting. Always use hardware rated for the mirror's weight and your wall type.

What are the best mirror shapes for a family home in Durban?

A cluster of three different-sized round mirrors works well in stairwells, adding visual interest while withstanding lively traffic. Round mirrors also soften a space.

Are there mirrors suitable for bathrooms that resist moisture?

Yes, choose mirrors with moisture-resistant backing or those sold as bathroom-rated to avoid early damage from humidity.

How much should I expect to pay for a wall mirror in South Africa?

Prices vary: small framed pieces start around R250, while large hand-finished mirrors can cost R3,000 or more. Costs depend on size, finish, and maker.

Wall mirrors: choose, place and style for South African homes

Practical guide to choosing, sizing and placing wall mirrors in South African homes - sizing tips, hanging safety, styling examples and price ranges.

Published:June 16, 2026

Updated:September 9, 2026

5 min read

Photo by Rube G. on Pexels

Purpose first

Decide function-light, dressing or focal point-before choosing size or frame.

Why wall mirrors matter

We think of mirrors as more than reflection tools - they change how a room feels and works. A well-chosen wall mirror can make a small apartment in Cape Town feel brighter, add a focal point to a hallway in Pretoria, or protect a tired wall in a family home with style that survives lively weekends. In this guide we share practical choices, sizing rules and real-life examples so you can pick a mirror that lasts.

Start with purpose

Ask what you need the mirror to do before you choose a shape or frame. Typical purposes are:

Function: full-length dressing mirrors for bedrooms or hallways.
Light: a mirror placed opposite a window to bounce daylight into the room.
Scale/focal point: a large round or sculptural mirror as the main decorative element above a couch or console.
Utility: smaller mirrors in bathrooms or study nooks where reflection space is limited.

Sizing made simple

We follow easy rules so sizing feels intuitive. For full-length use, allow at least 120-160 cm of height; for a lounge or dining-room focal mirror, aim for roughly two-thirds the width of the furniture beneath it. For narrow hallways a mirror as slim as 40-60 cm wide works; above a console, 60-100 cm is common. These are practical bands - in South Africa you’ll find good options from around R250 for small framed pieces to R3 000+ for large, hand-finished mirrors; prices are estimates and vary by finish and maker.

Shape, frame and finish

Shape affects mood: round mirrors feel softer and work well above beds and sofas; rectangular mirrors read clean and tailored - ideal for study nooks and bathrooms. Frame material sets the tone: thin black metal or timber for modern warmth, gilt or ornate frames for traditional homes, and rattan or rope for coastal cottages. If you’re matching existing hardware or furniture, sample a small frame swatch or take a photo to compare in natural light.

If you want a trimmed-down look, frameless or bevelled-edge mirrors are versatile and often cost-effective. For bathrooms, choose mirrors with moisture-resistant backing or ones sold as bathroom-rated to avoid early damage.

Explore curated selections on the Mirrors page to see common sizes and finishes, and check styling ideas in our Decor articles.

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Placement tips that actually work

Placement is where most projects succeed or fail. We use three simple placement checks:

Light direction: place mirrors opposite or adjacent to windows to bring in more daylight.
Viewing height: the centre of a commonly used wall mirror should sit at roughly eye height - about 150-165 cm from the floor for most homes - but adjust for tall ceilings or seated viewing.
Balance: a single large mirror can replace artwork; two or three smaller mirrors grouped together should have even spacing (10-20 cm) and a deliberate layout.

Practical hanging and safety

We recommend fitting hardware rated for the mirror’s weight and your wall type. Plasterboard, brick and concrete each need different fixings. For heavier mirrors use wall anchors or a French cleat; for lighter framed mirrors, D-rings with wall plugs are often sufficient. If the mirror will face active family spaces or be within reach of children, choose shatter-resistant glass or safety-backed mirrors to reduce risk.

Styling by room - quick examples

Here are concise, real-home scenarios we use when advising customers:

Small flat in Johannesburg: an oval mirror above a slim console to widen the entry, paired with a small planter for texture.
Cape Town coastal apartment: a round rattan-framed mirror over a low sideboard to amplify light and nod to the seaside palette.
Family home in Durban: a cluster of three different-sized round mirrors in a stairwell to create visual interest while withstanding lively traffic.

If you’re furnishing a living space, browse complementary options in Home Furnishings to coordinate mirrors with lighting and soft furnishings.

Maintenance and long-term care

Clean mirrors with a soft microfibre and a gentle glass cleaner. Avoid abrasive pads that scratch frames or surfaces. For wooden frames, treat with the same care you’d use on furniture - light dusting and occasional polish in line with the finish. For coastal homes, inspect backing and fixings more often because salty air shortens hardware life.

Choosing well - cost, value and sustainability

We advise thinking of a mirror as a small long-term investment: frameless or simple framed pieces offer strong value and flexibility; artisan or vintage mirrors bring character but may need professional hanging and occasional restoration. For eco-conscious choices, look for reclaimed frames or locally made mirrors to lower transport impact and support local makers.

When budgeting, set ranges for size and finish early - for example, R250-R700 for small functional mirrors, R700-R2 000 for medium decorative mirrors, and R2 000+ for large or bespoke pieces. These ranges are indicative; final prices depend on craftsmanship and materials.

Final checks before buying

Measure twice: note wall width, ceiling height and furniture dimensions.
Mock-up: tape paper or cardboard to the wall in the mirror’s shape and size to test proportion.
Hardware clarity: confirm hanging method and whether fixings are included.

If you’d like ideas tied to specific furniture or room types, our Furniture articles include styling examples that pair mirrors with sofas, beds and dining furniture.

We’re here to help you choose a mirror that fits how you live - whether that means stretching light into a small flat or adding a durable family-friendly piece. Start small: measure, mock-up and match the frame tone to your room’s mood.

Sources

Mirrors (shop) - Bash
Decor articles - Bash Knowledge Hub
House & Home - Interior advice and styling (South Africa)

Last updated: September 9, 2026

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Wall mirrors: choose, place and style for South African homes

Purpose first

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Size and placement rules

Practical care

Why wall mirrors matter

Start with purpose

Sizing made simple

Shape, frame and finish

Placement tips that actually work

Practical hanging and safety

Styling by room - quick examples

Maintenance and long-term care

Choosing well - cost, value and sustainability

Final checks before buying

Sources

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