After seeing a handful of mirrors in the kitchen, we understand some reservation about the material in such a heavy-use space. Mirrors can show everything, from small smudges to cooking splatters. Which is what intrigued us with the mirror used in this kitchen in the Tarpon Run Southern Living Idea House.
The mirrored backsplash is of antiqued 12x12 mirror tiles. Its worn surface warms the space and adds patina and a sense of age. And the bonus? The antiquing disguises imperfections when the mirror isn't perfectly clean. See more of this kitchen at Southern Living.
If you like this home's design as much as we do, see more from the architects (Dungan Nequette Architects) and interior designer (Tracery Interiors).


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Really love the antiqued mirror in the kitchen. Great idea for a heavy use area. Would look really good in a bar area as well. Love it!
This looks great! I wonder what the antiquing process consists of... is it a DIY thing, or can these be bought already anitqued?
At first I thought it was glass over wonderboard.
Nice! What a great idea - I've always thought mirrors were a bit too modern for me in the kitchen, but these antiqued guys look great!
Fabulous!
Anyone know where I can get similar jars?
Who sells antiqued mirror tiles? I can't find them anywhere.
I think Martha Stewart did a tutorial on antiquing a mirror years back. It's a matter of removing some of the silver backing. I like this look. It's sort of wabi sabi. Sort of.
You can kind of replicate the antique look by spraying on heavy duty oven cleaner to the back of a mirror, and waiting one/a few minutes to wipe off, depending on how worn you want the mirror to look (this takes off the silvering). Anthropologie sells some antiqued mirrors, although they're quite a bit different (they seem to be painted or patched with pretty paper, if I recall correctly).
Thanks for the tip, ForfeitReality!
What's more important in this design is that the mirrors reflect that incredible view when the cook is busy at the stove or guests are sitting at the counter. The other advantage of an antiqued mirror is that the reflections are muted.
Definitely going to try the antique mirror project one of these days...
To second heidi_in_nyc: Does anyone know where to find similar jars? I have loved those since I first saw this idea house in Southern Living.
Visit: Design Decor Mirror Tile www.designdecormirrortile.com
We make mirror tiles in all sizes and patterns. Not shown on our website is regular mirror and antique mirror tiles, but they can be made with or without bevels in nearly any size imaginable. All products made in the USA! Email jj@dwincorp.com or call 800-255-0829 and ask for JJ (Special Projects Manager/Interior Designer) for more information.
Best wishes.