Bespoke Mirrors as Architectural Artwork: A Guide to Commissioning Reflective Glass
A recent publication from CommissionIt emphasizes the role of custom mirrors as integral components of architecture rather than simple embellishments. These tailored mirrors improve environments by taking into account sightlines, materials, and functionality, especially in kitchens, hallways, and reception areas. Essential aspects include reflections at eye level, weight, and accessibility. The guide differentiates between clear mirrors, which expose clutter, and antiqued mirrors that introduce warmth. Tinted mirrors complement dark timber and metal features. Key considerations encompass assessments for daylight and nighttime, glare, and sample approvals. Concerns about distortion stem from substrate flatness and installation techniques. Safety and mounting must correspond with wall structures. The guide also features a checklist for commissioning and insights from a Reddit discussion, showcasing examples like CommissionIt's glass projects and an installation at Bristol Airport.
Key facts
- Bespoke mirrors are increasingly commissioned as integrated architectural elements.
- The guide covers clear, antiqued, tinted, and decorative mirror finishes.
- Samples are essential; full-size or representative samples should be approved before fabrication.
- Distortion in mirrors can be influenced by substrate flatness, glass type, thickness, and mounting method.
- Safety backing, toughening, or lamination are site-specific decisions.
- Wall construction determines the fixing method for heavy mirrors.
- Final templates should be taken only when adjacent walls, joinery, and finishes are complete.
- Desilvering is a risk in wet areas; proper ventilation and edge protection are necessary.
Entities
Institutions
- CommissionIt
- House & Garden
- Homes & Gardens
- Bristol Airport
Locations
- United Kingdom
- Bristol
- England