Alphabet of Architectural Models

Architectural models have been used for thousands of years to invent, experiment, and communicate. This book explores their unique nature through 26 illustrated essays, covering topics from A for Ancient to Z for Zoom. Models allow architects to think in three dimensions and can be made in a wide variety of media, from paper to sugar and jelly. Digital technologies have transformed prototyping, influencing architectural design. Models also have a vibrant life beyond the design process, including souvenir models, 1:1 scale plaster models, and architectural toys.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 09 September 2021
Publisher: Merrell Publishers Ltd

For countless centuries, architects have employed models to conceive, explore, and convey their ideas. These miniature replicas, often more diverse in their purposes and materials than their full-scale counterparts, serve as a captivating realm of creativity. This exquisitely crafted book delves into the singularly intriguing nature of architectural models through a series of 26 illustrated essays, each corresponding to a letter of the alphabet. From the ancient wonders of A to the futuristic marvels of Z, the book explores the diverse applications and materials of these miniature masterpieces.

Unconstrained by the limitations of life-size construction, models offer architects a realm of flexibility and freedom, enabling them to envision designs in three dimensions. Whether conceived for speculative purposes or to solve specific challenges, models serve as catalysts for imagination and serve as precise representations of both built and unrealized spaces. These representations can be utilized to convey information to clients or the public, providing a tangible and visual understanding of architectural concepts.

Models can be crafted using a wide array of materials, ranging from traditional paper, cork, and wood to more ephemeral substances such as sugar and jelly. The advent of digital technologies has recently revolutionized the possibilities for prototyping, exerting a profound influence on architectural design. Moreover, models possess a vibrant existence beyond the confines of the design process. Souvenir models collected during the Grand Tour, 1:1 scale plaster models showcased in museums, and architectural toys that have brought joy to both children and adults alike are just a few examples of their manifestations outside the architect's office.

Written by architects, model-makers, curators, conservators, and scholars, the texts within this captivating Alphabet delve into a diverse range of fundamental topics, including modeling materials and techniques, scale, and the pivotal role of models in the design process. They transcend conventional narratives to offer fresh perspectives and insights into the world of architectural models.

In conclusion, architectural models have been instrumental in shaping the architectural landscape for thousands of years. These miniature replicas, with their diverse purposes and materials, serve as a testament to the boundless creativity and innovation of architects. Through the pages of this book, readers are invited to explore the captivating world of architectural models, witnessing their evolution, influence, and enduring significance in the realm of architecture.

Weight: 348g
Dimension: 176 x 226 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781858946979