Humans have always been fascinated by their own reflection. One can assume that the first of our kind saw themselves in still pools of water and began to invent ways to replicate the experience. Found mirrors of polished stone and volcanic glass date back to 6000BC! Within a thousand years or so, shiny metal began to replace rock. Today, we’ve evolved to glass with a reflective coating; perfection! Mirrors move from holding purely functional roles, in dressing and bathrooms, to starring in the most elegant of settings with aplomb. They sparkle in candlelight, brighten dark spaces and add affordable drama to plain walls. And there are, quite literally, millions of designs to choose from!
Blank walls call for BOLD moves! If your space is void of architectural details, showcase an unusual mirror with substance, like this gorgeous chain-link example, above, by Currey & Company. This brass beauty was designed by Marjorie Skouras, and inspired by heirloom jewelry. The brass finish has a warm glow and the geometric patterning of the chain makes this mirror quite transitional- at home in a traditional or modern setting.
Take advantage of the mirror’s flexibility. Use them anywhere and everywhere you need added life! The Romano mirror, by Bungalow 5, in celestial cobalt blue, would take center stage in a powder room and showcase your guests in a heavenly way. Doubling them up in a master suite would add a sapphire-like brilliance to any design scheme.
Mirrors can serve as more than mere looking-glass. They can also be art itself. This energetic design, by metal master C. Jere, Rain Drops, can hold its own. A re-issued design, through Jonathan Adler, this lively explosion of metal discs and convex circles draws the eye and adds exciting dimension to a room.
By LURA Studio
Now that we’ve mastered the mirror’s form, we can enhance its function as well. The most important asset a mirror can offer is a beautiful view. Take time to consider the specific reflection gained from hanging your favorite mirror. If all you see is another blank wall (or a ceiling!) then you are only gaining half the advantage! Try a new placement or tilt the mirror downward-you simply must capture that fabulous piece your designer, and you, discovered!