Decorative leaner mirrors have become increasingly popular, and why not?
Ten and twelve foot ceilings are relatively standard in new construction, and allow the space needed to accommodate the desired reaction to a leaner.
Older homes like mine with eight or nine foot ceilings handle a leaner mirror quite well in their own right.
The height restrictions may make for more of a challenge, but the choices are not limited.
19th Century French Louis XVI Style Painted and Giltwood Mirror
Mirrors open up a room and instantly cast the illusion of added depth.
A leaner mirror deepens the richness of the illusion.
The patina of the wood and the gold gilt easily enhance a formal décor or become the focal point of a casual space.
I love the visual surprise of pairing stand out formal furniture or accent pieces with casual or primitive design.
When the shock wears off for those who don’t get it, or the excitement subsides for those of us who do, the look is hard to dismiss as luck of the design draw.
Any mirror can become a leaner.
Achieve focal point perfection by placing a mirror upon a piece of furniture or fireplace mantel propping the mirror against the wall.
Reflected in the final look will be a fresh placement option to the traditional.
House and Home – Photography by Donna Griffith
Inspiration is everywhere and often a two way street. I learned a fabulous placement technique from a client who purchased a set of small ornate fireplace andirons from me.
Veranda- Photography by Matthew Millman
He knew exactly what he was going to use them for and shared it with me.
Andirons placed on his fireplace mantle became an easel of sorts in his display of a leaner mirror.
Gorgeous idea!
If you have searched high and low for your perfect mirror and can’t find it consider an unframed mirror paired with decorative prefinished picture frame molding.
Decorative moldings can be purchased at home improvement stores in limited selections.
Larger selections can be found at specialty stores and through millwork manufactures.
Sheet mirror is typically inexpensive.
Going this route will allow you to customize a mirror to achieve the look you are going for.
Molding is purchased, corners are mitered, mirror installed, and the perfect “prop” is on your stage.
A DIY project that reflects your décor personality- now who’s the fairest of them all?
