heima architects' volumetric MUDU mirror embodies pure aesthetics

created by lithuanian studio heima architects, the mirror MUDU strives to break a standard misconception that mirrors are merely flat objects on the wall. through this design, the studio offers a sculptural quality to the reflective surface — turning it into a volumetric free-standing object. 

the free standing mirror can be observed from all sides

for this product, heima architects has focused essentially on contrast; a solid volume against a light wireframe, the simplicity of shape against attention to details, and a curved shell against straight lines. even more, the two distinct parts of the mirror – shell and frame – meet in an elegant wooden detail, which creates the impression of one piece resting on the other. going further into abstraction, the volume that is given to the mirror is functionally unnecessary. in other words, it is simply excessive and redundant. however, that is the intended final effect: ‘if you think about it, the function of every mirror in general is… for you to look at yourself, to make sure you look good. in that sense, MUDU embodies the essence of the mirror – it‘s purely about aesthetics and slightly redundant’, explains the studio. following the conceptual design process, manufacturing has been taken up by design practice jot.jot. 

neutral design helps the mirror fit in various interiors

the conical shape of the mirror is just a product of the studio’s creative process, and it is beyond explanation. there has been a lot of research about form and experimentation in the early stages of the design — which ultimately led to this rather sculptural piece of furniture — with little practical function. ‘in our studio we are all architects, so perhaps our line of thought is different than designers‘. architects are often expected to be simply correct with a shape, and focus on function, sustainability, feasibility… we think it is wrong and architects as well as designers…should experiment with shape. we believe an ugly building can have as much damage to the society as a poorly functioning one’, expresses the architects.  

the conical shape results from pure experimentation and aesthetics

the shell of the mirror exploits the possibilities provided by CORIAN material: curved lines, uniform shape, durability. the production process of the mirror extensively uses latest technologies such as vacuum thermoforming and CNC milling.

wooden pegs set in the side of the mirror’s shell allow it to rest atop a painted steel framework

contrast between the heavy top part and lightweight frame

the CORIAN shell of the mirror is made using thermoforming technology

wooden details are repeated on the base of frame legs

the mirror is defined by a sculptural silhouette

the conical silhouette changes with a different viewing angle

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: lea zeitoun | designboom