Text that reads 'SPECTRUM' in black on a white background
Text that reads 'PRODUCTS' in black on a white background
The word 'CONTACT' written in black uppercase letters.
Interior shot of a bathroom with two mirrors above a white marble bathtub, a chandelier reflected in the mirrors, a small side table with a decorative shell, a chair with a white cushion, and hardwood flooring.
A bathroom corner with a mirror reflecting a window with purple and yellow tint, a marble countertop, a faucet, cream-colored curtains, and a gray wall.

WHAT IS CHROMATIC MIRROR?

The luminous colors and gradients in Spectrum are achieved by layering combinations of different pure metals onto transparent sheet glass. The process is meticulous and alchemical, resulting in a luxurious architectural material usually reserved for use in high-end mirrors-as-objects.

This distinctive method is unique in an industry where the use of surface-level colored vinyl is most often used to achieve a color field effect.

Modern interior with a stone feature wall, white chairs, a rug, large windows showing an ocean view, and a sleek reception desk with a potted plant.

APPLICATION

When situated in a space, whether cladding a bathroom wall floor- to-ceiling, as a bar backsplash or within a hotel lobby, Spectrum mirrors use the eternal phenomena of light and reflection to create a chromatic effect that is both soothing and complimentary. Spectrum mirrors can also be used to create custom installations, furniture pieces and wall decor, in collaboration with the designers.

Founders Wendy Dixon and Caitlin Warther, standing together, one wearing a gold satin jumpsuit, the other wearing a purple satin jumpsuit, both wearing black heeled shoes.

MEET THE FOUNDERS

Water Dixon is our fine art studio based in Cape Town, South Africa. We officially launched in 2018, but our journey began two years earlier, in 2016, when we started experimenting with materials that would come to define our practice. Our focus is the exploration of mirror, metal, glass, and light, pushing the boundaries of these materials in innovative ways.

Through our ongoing research, we developed Spectrum Mirror - a technique that produces gradient chromatic effects on mirrored surfaces, resulting in an almost otherworldly, transcendent quality. Initially, we created this ethereal material for our fine art works. However, in 2024, we recognized its potential beyond our personal practice.

We've since refined and standardised the production process, allowing us to offer Spectrum Mirror as a distinct material to fellow design professionals. This transition from a studio-specific medium to a more widely available design material reflects our interest in expanding the creative possibilities of Spectrum Mirror.

We're interested to see how other designers and architects might incorporate these mesmerising chromatic gradients into their own projects, potentially opening new avenues for material application in contemporary design and architecture.

- Wendy Dixon & Caitlin Warther