Domestic: What Mirrors Can Do

(jiří macek) The French label Domestic is famous for its self-adhesive wall paintings and designer wall papers. However, it also has a parallel collection of Narcisse mirrors that completely change the possibilities of using mirrors in interior design. The designers include
Matali Crasset, 5.5 designers, and Ich&Kar.

The basis is simple. You can change the contours of the mirror as if it was lying under a sheet of paper. You can cut out pictures. The mirror hanging on a wall is a discreet decorative object. However, its position changes considerably with a change of light or from a different point of view. Although all mirrors obviously function in this way, the Narcisse mirrors have impressive shapes imprinted by designers. A look at one’s own face can be really surprising.
My favorite pieces are the slightly ironic mirrors by French designer Matali Crasset, whom you know from Designblok. (Five years ago, she presented her work in a brilliant exhibition in the French Institute, which was also a part of Designblok).
With the Spline mirror, it is as if one is looking alongside Matali into his/her own past. Generously decorated waterfalls of ivy let you see really deep into the mirror. Another piece designed by Matali takes the form of a bob hairstyle. As one can see from the engraved inscriptions, his/her look will lead him/her to Alice’s Wonderland. It does not matter that it is always one’s face that one can see.
The ironic I love me mirror by Ich&Kar is a compound of hearts - a clover of hearts that can grow depending on how long you are willing to observe it. The French duo of designers Ich&Kar rank among the most interesting studios. They play with luxury and everyday moments with such ease and humor. When looking at their website (www.domestic.fr), do not forget to browse their wall drawings and vinyl.
In addition, have a look at 5.5 designers, Olivier Peyricot and Sylvie Chanchus. Olivier and Sylvie designed a mirror for Narcisse that symbolizes mirroring even though one can hardly see herself/himself in it. Xenorhabdus is a look at the water surface or a look through the feathers of a flying bird. Both designers are very interesting. They belong among the leading figures of IDSland – an avant-garde group of architects, theorists, and designers.
I could spend a month describing the graphic and mirroring miracles. Now it is your turn. Enjoy it. Domestic website also includes an online shop. The prices of mirrors range from EUR 57 to EUR 89. Domestic is an excellent example of the contemporary French graphic scene.

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