As an interior design enthusiast, you may be wondering if beveled mirrors still have a place in today‘s modern homes or if their intricately cut glass edges now come across as outdated relics. With their glamorous heritage dating back centuries, beveled mirrors undoubtedly carry an aura of classic elegance. But can they blend into contemporary spaces focused on simplicity and clean lines?
In this guide, we‘ll take a detailed look at the history and production of beveled mirrors, examine their design appeal, and provide tips to help incorporate these ornate mirrors into both traditional and trendy spaces. Read on to learn all about whether beveled mirrors can still feel current.
What are Beveled Mirrors Exactly?
Before we dive into whether beveled mirrors are outdated, let‘s quickly cover what exactly makes a mirror "beveled." Beveled mirrors are named after their signature angled edges, with the glass cut into a sloped, multi-tiered shape rather than left with a flat, straight edge. This technique dates all the way back to the 14th century.
So what gives beveled mirrors their trademark look? During production, the edges of the glass are ground down at an angle of around 45 degrees. This process, known as beveling, creates the signature sloped edges and allows more light to pass through. After beveling, the edges are polished to create a smooth, reflective surface that complements the mirrored glass.
It‘s this angled shape that sets beveled mirrors apart from regular mirrors and gives them extra depth and visual interest. The beveled edges create an eye-catching prismatic optical effect as natural and artificial light reflects off the slanted, tiered glass surfaces.
A History of Beveled Mirrors Through the Ages
To understand whether beveled mirrors seem outdated today, it helps to know how they evolved from luxury status symbols of the nobility to ubiquitous suburban fixtures over the centuries.
14th Century – The earliest origins of beveled mirrors and decorative glass date back to Renaissance-era Venice. Venetian glass makers perfected the intricate process of cutting and beveling glass, making the city renowned for its glasswork artistry.
15th – 19th Century – During these centuries, beveled mirrors and glass panels became treasured symbols of wealth and privilege, prominently displayed in palaces, estates, and mansions of royalty and the aristocracy throughout Europe.
Mid 19th Century – As industrialization saw glass production become more efficient, beveled mirrors started transitioning from just the homes of nobility to more aspirational upper middle class abodes.
Early 20th Century – Advancements in glass manufacturing and grinding technologies enabled affordable mass production of beveled mirrors. This proliferation peaked post-WWII when beveled mirrors became commonplace fixtures in many suburban homes.
Mid 20th Century Onwards – While still appreciated in some traditional decor, beveled mirrors saw their popularity start to decline as sleek, modern design aesthetics emerged favoring clean, unadorned lines and plenty of open space.
So over the centuries, beveled mirrors descended from rare bespoke treasures only the wealthiest could afford down to mass manufactured products for the average home. Does this ubiquity explain why they are viewed by some today as clichéd or démodé?
The Allure of Beveled Mirrors
So why did beveled mirrors maintain such coveted status for so long? What qualities have made them such an admired decorative accessory over the centuries?
Unique Aesthetic
The signature beveled edges give mirrors added dimension, catching the light beautifully. This distinguishes them from flat, plain mirrors. The way light dances across the tiered glass angles make beveled mirrors radiate.
Light Enhancement
The angled facets allow more light to pass through, brightening up rooms. The prismatic effect creates the illusion of space and airiness.
Skilled Craftsmanship
Producing beveled mirrors requires great expertise and meticulous workmanship. The glass must be cut and ground just so. This level of skill and labor results in luxury-level quality.
Architectural Heritage
Extensively featured in regal estates and mansions, beveled mirrors evoke a sense of grand spaces and refined historic design. They lend any setting a richness steeped in tradition.
Durability
The thick beveled glass edges resist chipping, bending, and warping far better than regular thinner mirrors. Beveled mirrors last for generations rather than years.
Repairability
If damaged, the elegant ornate style makes beveled mirrors worthy investments to repair and retain rather than replace. The glass edges can be re-polished and pieces rejoined.
Are Beveled Mirrors Dated: The Shift Towards Minimalism
While beveled mirrors maintain devoted fans who continue to be charmed by their luminous reflections, changing aesthetics have sparked debate around whether this style now appears outdated or incongruous in contemporary homes.
Today‘s prevalent interior design preferences lean towards pared-back simplicity and plenty of open, uncluttered space. "Overly ornate trim and baroque embellishments are being pared back to create simpler, more serene spaces," explains Joan Miller, founder of Miller Interiors. "For those embracing the minimalist look, beveled mirrors can seem too fussy and ostentatious."
Many modern homes and bathrooms favor frameless mirrors with polished bevel-free edges or creative molded frames over traditional ornately carved options. "People want clean sight-lines and for the mirror itself to disappear rather than stand out," says designer Nina Winston. "The light diffraction of beveled edges attracts too much attention."
However, experts urge against assuming beveled mirrors are now gauche eyesores destined for the dumpster. With care taken in their placement and styling, beveled mirrors can absolutely blend into contemporary environments.
Tips for Incorporating Beveled Mirrors
Want to enjoy the luminous beauty of beveled mirrors without their elegance reading as outdated? Here are tips Interior designer Emily Kaufman swears by:
Opt for Smaller Beveled Accents
Rather than a massive beveled mirror dominating an entire wall as the main focal point, use much smaller beveled mirrors of around 24 to 30 inches in select spots like above bathroom sinks or in hallway nooks. Strategically placed petite beveled accents add a touch of luster without overwhelming contemporary decor.
Keep the Frame Simple
Let the faceted glass be the star. Painted or natural light wood frames keep the look light versus heavily carved ornate frames competing with the beveled edges. Thin metallic finishes like brass also deliver a contemporary vibe.
Edit Down Ornate Surroundings
Too many heavily detailed elements alongside a beveled mirror amplifies an old-fashioned feel. Counterbalance with spare, streamlined furnishings and decor. Maybe a beveled mirror alongside simplistic wood nightstands and a plain ivory lamp.
Use Beveled Mirrors Sparingly
Refrain from including a beveled mirror in every single room. Be discriminating. Perhaps just the entry and master bedroom need that gleaming touch. Too many beveled mirrors starts veering dorm room.
Backlight for Modern Edge
Perimeter lighting behind a beveled mirror casts a soft alluring glow on the glass that elegantly accentuates the cut edges. Illumination injects a clean modern flair.
Avoid Clustered Patterns
Groupings of multiple small beveled mirrors in geometric grid formations read very formal. Keep groupings light and asymmetrical.
Lean Into Ornate Surroundings
In classically furnished spaces decked out in antiques, velvets, and carved wood, beveled mirrors slide right into the surroundings seamlessly. Don‘t fight a room‘s inherent old world grandeur.
Consider the Style of Your Home
In staunchly modern homes, beveled mirrors may endure as awkward oddities. However, they thrive in classical constructions or homes blending traditional and contemporary elements. They pair well with mouldings, tall ceilings, and warm wood tones.
Beveled vs. Non-Beveled: Compare & Contrast
To further examine whether beveled mirrors warrant their higher cost and if their aesthetic edges past its prime, let‘s compare some key factors:
| Factor | Beveled Mirror | Non-Beveled Mirror |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | More expensive, $80 – $250+ for medium sized | Less expensive, $20 – $100 for medium sized |
| Durability | Very durable, resists bending and chipping | Less durable, more prone to damage |
| Light Refraction | Unique prismatic effect from angled facets | Simple reflection from flat plane |
| Style | Perceived as more traditional and ornate | Prefers as more modern and minimal |
| Placement | Makes good focal feature or accent | Works for nearly any placement |
| Repairability | Worth investing to repair due to quality | Often replaced when damaged rather than repaired |
The Production Process: Where Cost Meets Craft
To understand the cost differential between beveled and regular mirrors, it helps to look at the labor-intensive production process required to create the angled glass edges.
"Each beveled mirror is crafted by hand, requiring specialized skills and tools to shape and polish the edges just right," explains Lucy Goodman, owner of a small beveled mirror studio. "It‘s meticulous work that can‘t be rushed through or automated like typical mirror mass manufacturing."
The key stages that go into creating a beveled mirror include:
- Cutting – The glass is cut into the desired shape from larger sheets. Circular, oval, rectangular, and square shapes are common.
- Edging – The outer edges are ground down at an approximately 45 degree slope using coarse abrasive tools. This beveling requires a very steady hand.
- Smoothing – Sandpaper and fine abrasive tools are used to further smooth down and shape the beveled edges.
- Polishing – The angled beveled facets are polished using felt or leather polishing pads until maximally smooth and reflective.
- Assembly – The polished glass is united with the mirror backing and any frame or hanging hardware selected.
The equipment, expertise, and man hours required in these production steps results in significantly higher costs compared to mass produced regular mirrors. But fans of beveled mirrors feel the unparalleled artistry and quality warrants the higher investment.
Are Beveled Mirrors Dated? – It Depends…
At the end of the day, whether beveled mirrors come across as outdated relics or timeless luminaries depends on a few factors:
Personal Taste – If you simply don‘t personally care for ornate decorative touches, beveled mirrors likely won‘t appeal regardless of setting. But if drawn to elements with patina and heritage, beveled mirrors can feel timeless.
Design Style – In strictly contemporary environments devoid of all trimmings and tradition, beveled mirrors face rejection. But they complement homes blending modern and classical through eclecticism.
Size & Placement – Oversized beveled mirrors or too many placed prominently risk overwhelm. But used judiciously above side tables or in entryways, they maintain relevance.
Room Function – Formal dining rooms and studies lined with built-in bookcases tend to welcome beveled mirrors more than casual family rooms or sleek kitchens.
Surrounding Features & Decor – Beveled mirrors should be counterbalanced with plenty of streamlined and minimalist furnishings and elements. Too much competing ornamentation is overkill.
Lighting – Rooms flooded with natural light or thoughtful fixture placement highlight beveled mirrors best. Dark gloomy spaces dim their brilliance.
So while personal taste matters most, beveled mirrors still have devotees. With careful styling choices and room considerations, the luminous ageless beauty of beveled glass continues shining through.
Beveled Mirror FAQs
Still have some questions surrounding beveled mirrors and their role in modern interior design? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Are beveled mirrors good for small spaces?
Small beveled mirrors (12 – 24 inches) can help small spaces feel more expansive through their light-enhancing refractive quality. Just don’t overwhelm a tiny room with multiple ornate beveled mirrors.
Do beveled mirrors work in bathrooms?
Absolutely! Bathrooms remain one of the best places for beveled mirrors. Position across from windows to amplify natural light. Just opt for steam-resistant glass to prevent fogging.
Should I choose antique or new beveled mirrors?
This depends on personal taste and your overall decor. Antique beveled mirrors have more patina but could clash alongside all new contemporary pieces. New beveled mirrors probably mesh better with fresh modern furnishings.
How can I make a beveled mirror feel fresh?
Try painting the frame an unexpected color, installing perimeter lighting, hanging it horizontally instead of vertically, or pairing with ultra-modern accessories for contrast.
What’s the best way to hang a large beveled mirror?
Expansive beveled mirrors should have center support attached at two stud points in addition to side cleat hangers for maximum security and stability. This prevents the weight from pulling the mirror off-center over time.
The Verdict: A Touch of Timeless Dazzle
While beveled mirrors may never again dominate the mass suburban aesthetic as they did at their 20th century peak, their ornately cut glass still carries timeless allure. As long as they are thoughtfully incorporated, beveled mirrors need not be destined for the design dustbin.
"I think beveled mirrors add a welcome touch of craftsmanship and glamour,” remarks designer Joan Miller. “A sparkling little beveled accent provides just enough ornamentation without going overboard. The way light dances off those multi-tiered edges remains magical."
So feel free to enjoy beveled mirrors in doses. Just take care to balance their opulence and protect their delicate edges. With the right styling and placement choices, beveled mirrors can absolutely reflect light beautifully in both classic and contemporary spaces for years to come.
