Mirror, Mirror On The Wall...

I love the effect that a mirror can have on a room.  It has nothing to do with vanity, but more to do with the reflective qualities.  As you may remember from earlier posts I am also a big fan of small homes, so when a large mirror is placed in a smaller space, the entire space is transformed.  All of a sudden, there are sparkles and reflections that were not there before... the appearance of the room changes all day and as the sun sets, the room takes on a subtle glow.  And as all of us girls know, this is the best light ever.  If we could only walk through life with the appearance of a setting sun on our faces, wow.

eclectic mirrors design

You may think that this is entirely too much thought put into adding a mirror to a space, but actually all I am doing is putting words to something that we all experience everyday.  And as an artist, I am always noticing the way light plays on objects and creates shadows.

traditional mirrors design by Horchow

Mirrors can create the illusion of more space or open up an awkward space in a home.  Not only can they add this type of interest but they add variety.  When you walk into a home and the walls feature a blend of 2 dimensional pieces, 3 dimensional pieces and  mirrors or reflective surfaces are present, then the home has a more dynamic flow.  This is completely separate from the style of a home of course, as this is a good rule of thumb for any home from the most traditional to the most modern.

Take a look around your spaces.  Do you have any mirrors placed  throughout your home?  Do you have anything 3 dimensional on your walls, like a mask or a wall sculpture, antlers or a wreath?

Also, if you do have mirrors, are they hung at a level where they can reflect interesting items and textures in the room? Are they hung as part of a vignette with cool items that can be reflected in the mirror?  I am asking because I am sure we  have all visited  spaces where mirrors are hung so high on the wall, that the effects are almost nonexistent.  This is just a lost opportunity because unless you have a fabulous ceiling, you probably don't want to stare at a reflection of builder's white.

eclectic mirrors design by shop.canvashomestore.com

Take a look at the images below.  Notice the impact that the reflective surfaces have on the overall room.  It kinda makes ya want to go out and buy some more mirrors, huh?

traditional dining room design by los angeles architect William Hefner Architecture Interiors & Landscape

eclectic dining room design by orange county interior designer Fluegge Interior Design, Inc.

contemporary dining room design by raleigh interior designer Heather Garrett Design

I would love to hear from you about any great sources for mirrors, or even see photos of your home and your use of mirrors!