"The mirror is seen in nature in the surfaces of lakes, in the hollows of the mountains and in the pools deep in the shadow of the trees; in winding ribbons of the rivers that catch and give back the flying birds, clouds and blue sky. A dreary thing to have that element leave the landscape. It may be as refreshing and beautifying in architecture, if architecturally used." (Frank Lloyd Wright, Architectural Record, 1928)

'Whenever I tell people that I am an architect with an interest in mirrors, I get the comment, "Oh, mirrors make spaces seem so much bigger." And then I say, "Yes, but they do so much more..."

Yes, mirrors enhance a space. And, less well known, they can bring us improved views from around the corner or from another level as with periscopes. Additionally, mirrors can flatter us and add sparkle, kaleidescopic gaiety, and brilliant sun to the environment. They can also be so illusionary that we do not even know they exist.

I am struck at how fast, inexpensive and neat much mirror work is. I jokingly call it "remodeling without plaster dust." In this era of shrinking spaces and shrinking budgets, the mirror can be a useful ally.

A fascinating implication of using mirrors, particularily to enhance space, is that the floor plan becomes less important. Even a "rabbit warren," hated by all architects, might be acceptable with some skillfully deployed mirrors. Chinese practitioners of feng shui have for centuries let the mirror make up for certain imperfect plans.

The mirror can improve upon the less than perfect, and it can make the splendid even more wonderful. Nirvana Penthouse is a tiny mirrored Manhattan restaurant, high above Central Park. It has a red tented ceiling that contrasts with the cool reflections of distant skyscrapers and stars at night. Everyone in the restaurant has a wonderful view, whether real or illusionary. Similarily, a basement periscope window I created for clients gives a beautiful view of sky, trees, and lawn. It is not real of course; it is simply an illusion, but so much more appealing than looking at a blank wall.

The mirror is a delightful, affordable tool. Kings paid ransoms and fomented intrigues to learn the secrets for making it. Now it yours to use, by design.' (Mirror By Design, John Wiley & Sons, Pub.)

Pamela Heyne, architect, author and lecturer, is an internationally recognized authority on designing with mirrors. She has been fascinated by the power of reflection since graduating from Yale School of Architecture.