MIRROR MIRROR
I love antique mirror. The cracked gold gesso of the frames and grey-hazed reflection evokes curiosity to my mind. Who looked in them before and what did they see? A bride before she walked down the isle or a dinner guest straightening his tie? Did someone peer into it hoping for glimpse of their soul seeking understanding or making a resolution of change?
Mirrors have been used both as household objects and as objects of decoration throughout history. No matter where you put one, mirrors are an easy way to reflect light, make a space look bigger, and open up a room.
A LITTLE HISTORY: The ancient Egyptians, Romans and Greeks were enamored with reflection. The surface of volcanic stone, copper or bronze was polished creating reflection until the technique of coating blown glass with molten lead was discovered by the Romans. The invention of a particular glassblowing method during 14th century renaissance led to the discovery of a convex shape that increased the popularity of glass mirrors.
La Dame à la Licorne/The Lady and the Unicorn, detail from of one of six tapestries hung at the Cluny Musee in Paris.
My Seven Favorite Tricks...
ENTRY WAY or FOYER
I always use a mirror in the entry in my work. A small one by the door allows you the easy luxury of a last minute once over before dashing out or greeting guests. Entry ways usually lack a window. Hanging a large mirror catches ambient light and brightens a dark foyer.
CREATING PROMINENCE
Use a large floor length mirror behind a piece of furniture in tight spaces. Mirrors the same width of the furniture make the piece look purposeful and prominent rather than shoved in.
KITCHEN CABINETS
The bottom row of antique silvered tile backsplash deepen the countertops giving the illusion of more space. Glass inset into the panels of upper cabinet doors brightens and enlarges a small kitchen.
I used reflective silver leaf custom tile where the wall meets the granite creating a sense of depth.
Mirrors inset into cabinet doors and drawers brings light into this tiny kitchen creating a greater sense of space.
STAIR HALL ART
A collection of mirrors in different shapes and sizes hung in a salon-style arrangement going up the stairs or in the hall way not only bring light to a usually darkened space but the mirrors become the art that neutralizes and creates a place for the eye to rest before entering colorful and patterned bedrooms, bathrooms, offices, etc.
OUTDOORS
A mirror in a patio sitting area makes the outdoor space feel more like an actual room. Reflected candle light at night creates an enchanting ambiance.
CREATE ANOTHER WINDOW
Place a mirror next to or across from the real deal. The reflection maximizes the effect of natural light and pleasant outdoor views, allowing you to appreciate them from multiple angles.
I placed a pair of these large mirrors on the floor across from my large kitchen window. Not only do they reflect more light but they subtly make the space appear larger while bringing in the charm of the garden.
DOUBLE THE LIGHT
Place a mirror behind a light source. Whether it's behind a candle, a pendant light, or a bedside lamp, a mirror will help to maximize the light's reach while creating an almost magical effect.
Placing sconces over a mirror is easily done by a good contractor or electrician. Since the light is being doubled, I recommend a dimmer switch to control the brightness.