one embodiment of the present invention provides a system that facilitates manipulating a window within a three - dimensional display model , wherein the window provides a 2d user interface for a 2d application . during operation , the system displays a view into the 3d display model through a two - dimensional display . upon receiving a command to manipulate the window within the 3d display model , the system manipulates the window within the 3d display model so that the manipulation is visible within the 2d display .