The Method of Designing an Architectural Composition Applying Images Reflected in Water Mirror

Abstract

The phenomenon of apparent images of real objects, created by the light rays reflected from the surface of the natural mirror of standing water, has been known to the human eye apparatus since the beginning of time. Occurring in the natural environment, double landscape images, consisting of a real image and its symmetrical, reversed reflection, were not foreign to our eldest forefathers. This phenomenon had been known also to the architects of past eras, who masterfully used them in the design of often outstanding architectural compositions. This means of expressing the architectural form is also used by contemporary designers. Modelling such an unique architectural compositions, requires special knowledge. The paper presents “Method of a Relative Retinal Image”, which is useful tool in solving, mentioned above, particular design problems. The final conclusions of research, as well as the author own professional practice, prove that the presented method is an effective, easy to use tool that enriches the architect’s design workshop.