Models: Architecture and the Miniature

Today, the physical scale model is a centrepiece for designeducation, celebrated practices and architecture’s publicrelations. The development of digital fabrication devices has mademodel manufacture even more pervasive. The physical model is themost accessible form of architectural communication. Clients andthe general public seem to immediately respond to and understandthe model, over blueprints and computer simulations. 

Many architects use finished models for presentations,competitions and exhibitions. Others also embrace sketch models asquick, economic and flexible generative tools. It is only with therise of the virtual that the advantages and disadvantages of moretraditional models can be fully evaluated. As attested by thisbook, we are now at an important watershed for the model inarchitecture. Practitioners and educators alike are seeking tofully understand the multiplicity of model types and how they mightbe strategically deployed at appropriate stages in the designprocess. 

The historic role that the model has played is outlined withattention paid to Alberti, John Soane, the Bauhaus and educationreforms. A cultural history is offered by examining models in theguise of toys, food, cinema, product design, souvenirs, narrativeand art. Model theories are considered and tied to specificexamples in the field. New technologies and creative combinationsof traditional model-making techniques are evaluated. Kinetic,multi-media, nightscape and interdisciplinary models reveal thebroad scope and exceptional versatility offered by this importanttool. Models: Architecture and the Miniature focuses oncurrent model use and experimentation by architects across theglobe including David Chipperfield, Peter Eisenman, Frank Gehry,Zaha Hadid, Coop Himmelb(l)au, Daniel Libeskind, Greg Lynn and UNStudio.

SERIES: Architecture in Practice