Do mirrors really "bounce light around the room"?

[vonnyh]

Hi, we have a north facing dining room which we've recently decorated in a combo of cream and gold wallpaper and "Timeless" by Dulux. It looks lovely, but I think it's still a bit dark. I keep reading that mirrors can bring light into a room, but could anyone give me any tips on this? Thanks.

Hang a large mirror (horizontally) on the wall opposite your window and it will help the room feel lighter and bigger, yes
HTH

Thanks!

reflect might be a better word
Yes. the colour of flooring makes a lot of difference
As the previous poster said, opposite the window. IMO a dark dining room is OK

The room's not "dark", but it is a bit gloomy. We haven't got any furniture in at at the mo, so your idea about lightbulbs and colours is helpful for when we get to that stage.
Thanks!