"Heaven on Earth" project by Shirin Abedinirad

One of the first uses of mirrors in architecture was in Persepolis, Persia at the Tachara Palace. Glossy black stones were polished till their surface was reflective, expanding the palace’s size and beauty. My idea was to return the concept of doubling space and light.

In my “Heaven on Earth” project, the basic geometric shapes and symmetrical composition of the mirrors are angling up the cement stairs. For me the use of mirrors is integral to creating a paradise; mirrors give light, an important mystical concept in Persian culture. When the audience stands at the top of the stairs and looks down, they come face to face with an optical illusion that increases their light, and therefore their spirituality of the space. The blue sky spills onto the ground, mimicking a pool, and the audience is momentarily overcome with the desire to jump into the light.

More info: shirinabedinirad.com