7 Ways to Elevate Stairwells and Landings with Framed Mirrors

Transitional spaces like stairwells and landings are often overlooked, yet they hold tremendous potential for design impact. By incorporating mirrors, you can add depth, light, and personality to these connecting areas, transforming them from pass-through zones into purposeful, stylish spaces. Here are some creative tips to elevate these areas with framed mirrors.

1. Create the Illusion of Space

Stairwells and landings are often narrow or compact, making them feel tight. Adding a large rectangular mirror along one wall can create the illusion of depth and openness. Opt for a frame in a neutral or metallic tone to keep the look sophisticated and cohesive with adjacent spaces.

Mirrors visually expand tight spaces, making them feel more inviting without requiring structural changes.

2. Reflect Natural Light for Brightness

If your stairwell or landing has access to a window or skylight, position a mirror to reflect the incoming light. A custom-sized mirror framed in a light wood or matte finish works beautifully to enhance the airy feel.

Brightening these spaces makes them feel more integrated with the rest of the home, especially in darker layouts.

MAL-0378 Black Framed Mirror For Hallway

3. Highlight Architectural Features

Install a series of smaller square mirrors in a symmetrical layout along a staircase wall. This approach not only breaks up large, empty walls but also draws attention to the architectural lines of the staircase.

Repeating shapes and patterns adds rhythm and visual interest, giving character to an otherwise utilitarian space.

4. Use Mirrors as Focal Points

Turn a landing into a design statement by placing a bold, custom-framed rectangular mirror above a console table or bench. Pair it with a stylish lamp or a small gallery of artwork for added layers.

A well-placed mirror anchors the landing as a deliberate part of your home’s decor, rather than an afterthought.

5. Experiment with Vertical Orientation

In tall stairwells, use vertically-oriented rectangular mirrors to emphasize the height of the space. A sleek, framed mirror or one with a thin metallic edge can enhance a contemporary look.

Vertical mirrors enhance the dramatic scale of stairwells, drawing the eye upward for a striking visual effect.

MAL-0367 Black Framed Mirror For Hallway

6. Play with Contrasts

Choose a bold, contrasting frame—like black against white walls or gold against cool grays—to make the mirror pop. Use this technique sparingly in transitional spaces for maximum effect without overwhelming the decor.

Contrasting frames add personality and energy to spaces often perceived as plain or utilitarian.

7. Layer with Textures

Combine a framed mirror with textured elements like woven baskets, rugs, or greenery on nearby shelves. This creates a balanced, lived-in feel for landings that double as functional spaces.

Layering prevents the space from feeling sterile while maintaining its transitional purpose.

By integrating custom-framed square or rectangular mirrors into stairwells and landings, you can redefine these transitional spaces. With thoughtful design choices, they become functional extensions of your home’s personality and style.