Mirrors in Low Places

I always love the touch of sparkle and light that a mirror adds to a room, but I especially like when they are used as a backdrop, or a layering piece to add more depth to a space as in the photos below:

This headboard mirror is brilliant:

This vertical mirror almost looks like another window (love the mirrored table too!):

I love how this mirror blends in with the rest of the art on this gallery wall:

I really like when mirrors are used like this above the nightstands:

I love the bold simplicity of this last photo, the mirrors add a great sense of drama. Do you use a lot of mirrors in your decor? Do you use them in any unusual places?

*via lonny, ruthie sommers, cote de texas, & unknowns

Etageres...oui or no?

Websters's dictionary defines etagere as "a piece of furniture consisting of a set of open shelves for displaying small objects".  I think that the modern versions seen below are a great way to show off your favorite items, as long as the display doesn't get too knick-knacky.  When arranging your items, be sure to vary the sizes of objects and create vignettes to add interest (I always like odd-numbered arrangements).  Also, it helps to group like-items together.  For example, if you have a green bottle collection, put them all in the same area rather than sporadically around the room to create a more modern look.  Most importantly, keep it simple.  Too many small items can make it start to look like your grandma's ceramic kitty collection (no slam on grandma intended).  I spotted this fantastic oriental-inspired stacking etagere at HomeGoods last week for only $200, but sadly had no place for it...

 HomeGoods

here's a more traditional option from Ballard Designs

Jonathan Adler Radcliffe Etagere...not sure why it's not called a bookcase, but if Mr. Adler thinks it's an etagere, we'll go with that

a very sleek option

domino

cote de texas

similar grouping of white ceramics via i suwannee

green groupings via domino

Curtain Call

Cote de Texas did an EXCELLENT post on curtains today.  Window treatments can be tricky and I'm with Joni...if curtains aren't done right and executed perfectly, it's better not to bother with them at all.  Definitely worth checking out.