09 January 2026
Mirror Configurations That Work in Commercial Washrooms
Some designers prefer perfectly equal mirror widths, others specify one mirror unit per tap, and many, particularly in the context of this article, aim for a single long mirror spanning the entire washstation to reduce the amount of mirror connection joins.
While all of these approaches can be achieved, the final design outcome ultimately depends on key factors such as mirror height, tap quantity, and user spacing, which together determine how an Alavo washstation can be configured.
Why Alavo Units Have Height & Width Limits
- Size limits in an Alavo mirror configuration protect the structural integrity of fittings and gas struts.
- Taller and wider mirrors outside of our standard range are heavier and harder to maintain, so limiting the maximum size ensures durability, cost-effectiveness, and a trouble-free experience.
- The minimum tap spacing is set to comply with ergonomic standards.
Integrated Behind Mirror Taps
Behind mirror taps are spaced at 600mm apart, which directly impacts the overall width of your Alavo mirror configuration.
Behind mirror taps are never placed behind a join connection point to ensure pictograms remain visible and aligned.
Limitations:
- 800mm-high systems cannot include behind mirror taps for two or more washstations due to plumbing requirements.
- 1200mm-high systems with multiple washstations can be provided as a bespoke Alavo mirror configuration.
Counter Mounted and Wall Mounted Taps
When specifying three or more taps (especially an odd number like five or seven taps), the Alavo mirror configuration must be planned carefully to avoid a tap being installed directly under a mirror connection point.
For example, because of Alavo’s size limitations, attempting to span three taps under two maximum width mirrors will position the central tap directly under a join.
Anyone using that tap would see a mirror join straight through their reflection.
Thus, a three-mirror Alavo mirror configuration is the solution to ensure each tap is properly framed and the user experience is preserved.
2 taps: achievable with one mirror with no join connection points |  |
3 taps: two mirrors put a join through the centre tap → specify 3 set mirrors instead |  |
4 taps: can be split into two equal mirrors with one join between each mirror |  |
4 tap run at 1000mm high mirrors = 2 mirrors |  |
4 tap run at 1200mm high mirrors = 4 mirrors |  |
Pictograms and Behind Mirror Equipment
Whether the design includes manual counter mounted commercial taps or wall mounted sensor taps, the layout must accommodate:
- Pictogram alignment with behind mirror washroom products (paper towel dispensers, touch free soap dispensers, behind mirror hand dryer)
- User positioning
- Visual balance
These factors influence the final Alavo mirror configuration for your project.
Designing Washrooms Beyond Aesthetics
Specifying the right Alavo mirror configuration ensures that mirror connection points do not disrupt reflections and the washstation meets both aesthetic and functional requirements.
As every commercial washroom project is different, Dolphin can work with you to produce bespoke drawings to meet your specific aesthetic design goals.
If you are unsure whether your project requires a bespoke washroom solution or a standard mirror setup, our specialists can guide you through the ideal Alavo mirror configuration.
Contact a Dolphin washroom consultant to talk about the best tap layout and mirror settings for your commercial washroom design.