Illuminated or non-illuminated bathroom mirrors
An LED bathroom mirror puts light exactly where you need it for shaving, make-up and skincare. Illuminated models from Origins Living, including Claris, Cleo and Kingsley, are rated IP44 for zone 2 and are Class II (double insulated, so no earth is needed), with a built-in demister that switches on with the light.
A non-illuminated mirror is simpler to install and suits a room already lit by wall lights. Imperial's framed mirrors are designed to sit with its furniture ranges: the Carlyon Bay round mirror, for example, has a painted frame with slim metal strips finished to match your taps and showers. If a plain mirror steams up, Origins Living sells demister pads separately for designs such as Oslo, Docklands and Porterhouse.
What to look for in an LED mirror
- Colour temperature: adjustable mirrors move between warm white (around 3000K) and cool daylight (around 6000K). The Claris Capsule adjusts across that range.
- Colour accuracy: Claris, Cleo and Kingsley are rated CRI 90+, so skin tones and make-up look true.
- Front or back lighting: front lighting is best for tasks, while back lighting gives a soft glow on the wall. The Kingsley round mirror has both, controlled separately.
- Brightness: compare lumens, not watts. A larger mirror generally gives more light.
Sizing a mirror over a basin
As a rule of thumb, choose a mirror slightly narrower than the basin or vanity unit below it, leave a clear gap above the tap, and aim for the centre of the glass to sit near eye level for whoever uses it most. Tall capsule and arch shapes suit households of different heights. For an illuminated mirror, fix the position before tiling so your electrician can bring the cable out in the right place. Our illuminated bathroom mirror guide covers zones, wiring and sizing in more detail.
Can I fit an illuminated mirror myself?
No. Illuminated mirrors are hardwired, and some electrical work around a bath or shower is notifiable under Part P of the Building Regulations in England. Use a qualified, registered electrician.
What does IP44 mean on a bathroom mirror?
The first 4 means solid objects over 1mm are kept out, and the second means the mirror is protected against water splashing from any direction. That meets the minimum for zone 2, the area just beyond the edge of a bath or shower.
Do I need a magnifying mirror as well?
For close work such as detailed make-up, many people add one alongside the main mirror. The Mason 5x magnifying mirror is double-sided, with a standard reflection on one side and 5x on the other, and extends out from the wall. Origins Living also offers 3x and 7x magnification.
Will a framed mirror match my taps?
Imperial's framed mirrors, such as the Jules oval and Tristan rectangular, come in chrome, antique gold, polished nickel, brushed nickel and brushed brass, so they can match your brassware exactly.
Can you help me choose and fit a mirror?
Yes. Book a free one-to-one consultation and we will help you choose the mirror, plan its position and wiring, and fit it as part of your bathroom.
