Reflections

They say that anyone on television appears to gain 10 pounds, a trick of the camera, which is why celebrities always seem smaller in the flesh, apparently.

Mirrors have a similar effect, although sometimes to flattering effect. Just think how many times you’ve been in a changing room where, rather pleasantly, your reflection in the mirror shows a slimmer, leggier you, looking sleek of hip and rather fabulous.

Funny how when you get home how leggy regresses to chunky? Yes, indeed, it’s all about the mirror and finding one that truly reflects what stands before it. Quality costs and it’s worth spending to make sure there’s no distortion. Walk back and forth in front of the mirror of your choice, then turn it on its side and do the same thing so you cover all angles. If there’s the slightest distortion, leave it. You might think you can live with a flaw because you love the frame but I promise you the distortion will drive you nuts over time.

This is particularly important if mirrors are purely for purposes of vanity, to provide you with the means to check your look before running out the door, or to ensure a clean morning shave. Less important though if you’re using them to enhance your living space by positioning them as a feature or to reflect light. The latter idea we’re only just cottoning on to, but it’s a tried and tested trick.

Equally, mirrors can work wonders in Irish houses if we give some thought to their placement, particularly in hallways which, by and large, are narrow and often dark. If a mirror reflects the space, it will create the illusion of making it bigger, and if placed opposite a natural light source like a glass front door, it will reflect light from outside. So opt for the largest mirror you can accommodate and it will feel as if your space has grown considerably.

Mirrored wardrobes, especially when stretching across an entire wall, will make your bedroom appear double the size and will do marvels for reflecting light in the space. They’re ideal for attic conversions that may only have a couple of roof windows to let light in. Other mirrored furniture is a nice idea in theory, but was a short lived trend a few years back. I suspect that much like stainless steel kitchens which were a must-have around the same time, it was the constant wiping of unsightly smears and paw prints to maintain the look, that put people off.

Now the in-vogue mirror trend is for large, free-standing versions with ornate frames that make an interior design statement by resting casually against a wall, so no need for a couple of muscle men with a drill. Position it so a favourite art work or a statement light fitting is reflected, showing it off twice. Also consider an eye-catching design, so not only will the mirror function as a looking glass and a means of light reflection, it will also be an attractive object on your wall. ¦ Next week we’re visiting Cork Craft month