Quietly nestled in the scenic Qadisiya region of Kuwait, lies an imposing structure that makes a bold statement in terms of artistic expression. Dubbed the House of Mirrors the venue is the residence and showpiece of artist, writer, sculptor, and jewellery maker Lidia Scagnolari, an Italian native that moved to the Middle Eastern country after marrying local artist Khalifa Al-Qattan. Often described as a masterful work of art, her residence is a stunning testament to a lifelong commitment to creativity. Visitors can explore the intriguing household decorated in intricate mirror work via a tour that is accessibly strictly by appointment.
A feast for the eyes and senses the entire household is literally layered in broken shards of mirror taking various shapes and colours as well as themes that reflect the artists’ taste and appetite for unabashed creative expression. Everything including the furniture of the residence is layered in mirror work making the tour a glaring and reflective experience for first-time visitors. The House of Mirrors is the result of a lifetime of work as the first inclination to cover a cabinet with broken mirror pieces when her husband was exhibiting abroad kick started this endeavour. The very first piece was crafted in 1960 and on an item of furniture hand made by her artist spouse. Encouraged by him and emboldened by the beauty of the items she created, Lidia went on to decorate other corners of her household in mirror work till the entire structure was layered in multi-coloured mirrors inside and out.
Highlights include the kitchen area dubbed My World Hall where science based motifs are found while the living room aka Planet Earth Hall delves into nature and mother earth for inspiration. Glorious planets, comets and galaxies cover the Zodiac Hall while a walk across the Corridor of Nations or Shark Hall is equally breathtaking. The bathroom, dubbed Sea World Hall explores oceanic themes while the library known as the Knowledge Hall and the Universal Hall (bedroom) are spectacular points of interest delving in to the birth of humanity and the universe. Walking the Stairs to Inspiration covered in bird life motifs one enters the upper floor of the house which features paintings by Lidia and her late husband as well as jewellery, lamps, candleholders and other statues crafted by Lidia.
Travellers in need of luxurious Kuwait hotels should look no further than the elegant Al-Jahra Copthorne Hotel & Resort. Ideally located in a strategic position this elegant Kuwait resort pulls out all the stops when it comes to accommodating business and leisure travellers.
Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
