The Magic Of Mirrors In Decor

Venetian mirrors inside Coco Chanel's home

Mirrors by far are my favorite design element in home decor.  Why is that? You might ask.   Well, for starters, you can find a mirror in just about any style, shape, size or color under the sun.  And if that isn't good enough reason, here are some other reasons why mirrors are so amazing.

Original Louis Philippe mirror

Use A Mirror To:

• reflect light from a window or chandelier throughout a room
• reflect an outdoor view
• visually expand a space (the reflection doubles the expanse/space)
•  basic function – to check hair/makeup before leaving the house
• to introduce a different shape or texture
• to reinforce a style with the frame shape
• to create a focal point in an otherwise featureless room

Of all the features and benefits the mirror provides, I must say that the light, space and airiness it brings to a room is what I enjoy most.  Interior decorators say that a mirror should reflect a wonderful view.  I agree.  Mirrors look best in places where they can reflect light from a window, or where they are adjacent to a window so that you see "outside" in them...trees, the sky...you get the point.  So, if you have a small space or would like to kick it up a notch in your home consider adding a mirror.  You'll be surprised at how this simple addition can transform and liven up a room.

Here are some great mirror photos for inspiration, enjoy!

www.trendir.com

www.apartmenttherapy.com

Picture from decor magazine

christmasoutdoorhomedecoration

christmasoutdoorhomedecoration

Antique french mirror - origin unknown

Gorgeous mirror with column detail - origin unknown

Drift wood mirror

 darrelldeanantiques

D.I.Y Headboards Gone Wild!

It is no secret that I am a certified D.I.Y fanatic.  No delusions here, am owning it!  Show me a "how to" project and my happy quotient goes way up.  Don't know why that is but hey, thats how the good Lord wired me.

One of my favorite things to experiment with is headboards.  It is such a splendid opportunity to unleash your creativity and infuse your own personality into your bedroom.  And this my friend is what makes your home uniquely yours so go for it!

Creating A new head board could be as simple as draping fabric over your old one or it could be so complex that it may take many months, even years to complete.  The great thing about it is, you decide what you want.

I have a queen bed that needs a head board so of course I decided to make my own.  I found so many beautiful options.....    These are my favorites so far.  What do you think?

Decorative fabric 

Salvage wood 

A paint job and a strategically placed mirror

A large framed piece of Art

Salvage doors

Antique mirror

Burlap 

Multiple framed photos

And finally tapestry.  

This is going to be so hard to choose but since these are all so gorgeous, I cant go wrong with any of them.  Well, am of to marinate on my choices but I will post a picture of my new head board once I decide and "git er done!"  Cherio!

Mirror Mirror On The Wall

Now I know it sounds a little shallow to say I fell "in love" with a piece of furniture but I think this is the only expression that explains how much I completely adore Venetian mirrors and furniture.  Maybe its because Venetian style was inspired by Venice, and what's not to love about Italy?  Its the birth place of Michelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci, and Raphael, just three little reasons why Italy is "all that" and an extra large sack of chips. Italy is the birth place of the most amazing Art ever created and is world renowned for its craftsmanship, not to mention its ability to continue creating at this standard.

The pictures shown here are just a coveted few of the the pieces I am planning to buy.  This may not be for everyone but I can truly say this is definitely a style that makes me very happy.

* Tip:  if you are afraid to go all the way with this and just want a a little of this style, just measure your dresser top (width and length) and have a piece of mirror cut for it.  You would be surprised at how this simple little thing will transform the look of your dresser. Absolutely gorgeous!

Want to see more beautiful Venetian furniture and accessories?  Check out the sites responsible for most of the images below:

www.arhzine.com
www.lecotefrancais.com
www.decorpad.com
www.shelterinteriordesign.blogspot.com