MIRROR, MIRROR...by Stacy McSpadden

The mirror. You may not think of it this way, but it is one of the necessities of life. We use a mirror daily and no matter what, it would be hard to live without being able to see our precious reflections. While the mirror is a simple staple for your bathroom, many people like to use them decoratively. I was walking through the store this morning and started thinking about different styles and ways we can use mirrors in our homes.  

Mirrors have become like pieces of art over the years. They aren't always great for applying makeup, but they look great with your favorite console, chest, or sideboard. Some advice for using mirrors: think about what they reflect. I may touch a nerve here, but a mirror over a mantle is one of those mistakes that most people make when designing their home. If you look at a mirror over a mantle, all you see is the ceiling, light fixture, or vent. A mantle is a great place to display your favorite piece of art. Save that mirror for a wall over a chest or table.

Here are some examples of how we use mirrors in the store.  

                    

This is a great iron mirror. This finish and texture are nice with a wood piece because you don't always have a place to add a different look. It is great for placing across from a pretty piece of art or a colorful room because there is so much clarity in the mirror.

This is considered a "Venetian" mirror. What makes it this style is the use of decorative glass and not a frame. This is a more formal style and looks great in a dining room or living room. Keep in mind that the lamps in this picture are a little large, but we are a store and everything can't always be perfect!

                 

This is a great mirror. The style is called "Chinoiserie." This means that it is a French design with an Asian influence. These can be dressed up or down depending on the room and piece with which it is placed.

                

The "Starburst" mirror is really hot right now. With the departure of Country French style and the emergence of transitional and mid-century looks, this is a winner. This is also an example of how a mirror can be like a piece of art, rather than reflective.

                  

The last mirror we will look at is the "antiqued" large scale mirror. It makes a huge statement because of its size. Great for the large space with a huge sideboard. Again, it's reflection is not very clear, but it really looks good.

Think about what you are reflecting and how you can best use a mirror to accentuate your home decor.

Happy Decorating!

Stacy 


Stacy McSpadden
Manager of Interior Design Services
Chestnut Hall Interiors
3075 Forest Hill Irene Road
Germantown, Tennessee 38138
901.753.8515

stacy@chestnuthall.com