One summer, I took on the exciting challenge of creating a smart mirror—an ingenious concept that allows for endless customization and fun with its variety of apps. To begin, I acquired a broken 27-inch monitor at a surplus auction for a mere $10. A minor investment of $3 in capacitors brought the monitor back to life, providing me with a display panel to craft my smart mirror around. The allure of the project lay in designing a frame that securely housed the monitor while discreetly concealing all the electronics behind it. However, the one obstacle I faced was the cost of a two-way mirror, leading me to opt for an acrylic alternative, which came with its own unique challenges. 

Crafting the frame was a straightforward task, with the primary goal being to ensure ample space to accommodate all the components hidden within. I envisioned a frame that could accommodate a two-way mirrored plexiglass, the monitor, a Raspberry Pi, electrical and USB connectors, RGB lighting, and support structures to hold everything together seamlessly. Ensuring the side boards were long enough to cover and hide all the electronics was a priority. 

One of the project's hurdles was the price of a genuine two-way mirror, which prompted me to explore alternatives. I decided on an acrylic version, which came at a more affordable cost. However, I discovered that it had a minor drawback—when not perfectly flat, it could distort the reflection, reminiscent of a funhouse mirror. Although this solution worked for the current project, I am determined to explore other options in future iterations to achieve a flawlessly immersive experience. 

The journey of creating my smart mirror has been nothing short of magical. From salvaging and reviving the monitor to designing and building the frame that seamlessly houses all the components, I have thoroughly enjoyed the process. The customizable apps and the endless possibilities offered by the smart mirror have made this project a truly enjoyable and fulfilling endeavor. As I continue to refine and improve my creation, I am excited about the potential to create an even more mesmerizing smart mirror—one that promises a truly immersive and enchanting experience for all who encounter its brilliance.