The physical model is an important communication tool for architects. Although the proliferation of CAD programs has enabled the creation of increasingly complex computer models and virtual environments, there is also a growing need to address the three-dimensional qualities of architecture that may be lost when using such media. This book focuses on the inspiring possibilities for modeling the built environment with all the different media and techniques available. In describing the use of different models in different contexts, the book provides a practical guide to how and why models are used and what they are used for. This second edition includes more detailed step-by-step exercises, expanded discussion of materials and techniques, and updated coverage of digital techniques.

An investigation of different uses for the architectural model through history—as sign, souvenir, funerary object, didactic tool, medium for design, and architect's muse. For more than five hundred years, architects have employed three-dimensional models as tools to test, refine, and illustrate their ideas. But, as Matthew Mindrup shows, the uses of physical architectural models extend beyond mere representation. An architectural model can also simulate, instruct, inspire, and generate architectural designs. It can be, among other things, sign, souvenir, toy, funerary object, didactic tool, medium, or muse. In this book, Mindrup surveys the history of architectural models by investigating their uses, both theoretical and practical. Tracing the architectural model's development from antiquity to the present, Mindrup also offers an interpretive framework for understanding each of its applications in the context of time and place. He first examines models meant to portray extant, fantastic, or proposed structures, describing their use in ancient funerary or dedicatory practices, in which models are endowed with magical power; as a medium for architectural reverie and inspiration; and as prototypes for twentieth-century experimental designs. Mindrup then considers models that exemplify certain architectural uses, exploring the influence of Leon Battista Alberti's dictum that models be simple, lest they distract from the architect's ideas; analyzing the model as a generative tool; and investigating allegorical, analogical, and anagogical interpretations of models. Mindrup's histories show how the model can be a surrogate for the architectural structure itself, or for the experience of its formal, tactile, and sensory complexity; and beyond that, that the manipulation, play, experimentation, and dreaming enabled by models allow us to imagine architecture in new ways.

Model making is a beautiful and skilful craft, and architectural model making is a vital part of the building process. The architectural model is often the first time that a building is visualized in 3D. It can capture the excitement of the architect's vision but can also reveal unforeseen difficulties. Model Making for Architects explains the role of the model within the architectural and planning process. It advises on the many ways of representing a building and the many techniques of making a model. With practical instruction throughout, it is an invaluable tool both for the model maker and for the architect seeking to commission a model of their building. With contributions from leading practictioners, case studies on multi-million pound projects and step-by-step exercises, this new book provides a unique insight into the process of architectural model making, and looks at the new technology and opportunities available to the model maker. What and who is an architectural model for? What type of model should be used, and when? What scale is most appropriate? These questions are answered in this new book which provides a unique insight into the process of architectural model making. Illustrated with examples of top models of multi-million pound projects. Will be invaluable for architectural model makers, architects, surveyors and interior designers. Superbly illustrated with 227 colour photographs. Matt Driscoll is the founding director of Base Models, reknowned for creating beautiful, yet practical architectural models.

This book offers an explanation of why scale models are important to the design process. Albert Smith takes the reader through the history and significance of models in architecture from the magic of the Egyptian scale model to the present day. Through this description of the relationship between architecture and the scale model, Smith demonstrates the most effective process between concept and 'machine', between the idea and the final building. The great value of this book is to reveal the nature of the scale model and to unlock the tremendous potential of this design tool as a thinking and communicative advice. His chronological analysis goes on from Egypt through Rome to the relationship between the Greek paradigm scale model and then on to Medieval and Renaissance models. It concludes with the models of the Spanish architect Antonio Gaudi, the Russian Constructivists, the American architect Louis Khan and finally looks at the role of scale models in the present day through the work of the Polish/American architect Daniel Libeskind and the American Frank Gehry.

Architectural models are used at various stages of a project. As working models they support the design process: they are made up from time to time using simple materials, such as cardboard, without any attempt at accuracy, and continue to be adjusted and added to as the ideas and the design progress. The point here is to swiftly check a design idea, to allow it to be continued or dismissed. Presentational models are more involved; at this stage the design has been completed and the purpose of the model is to convey the ideas to the potential user in a clear and easy-to-understand way. The book Architecture and Model Building includes outstanding examples explaining the possibilities of this medium and, at the same time, provides comprehensive information on materials and techniques.

Advances in computer-aided design have proven to be an invaluable tool for the architect and designer, yet Frank Gehry still begins his creative process by making "simple" models out of modest materials. Drawings and video, while an essential part of the design process, are still not substitutes for the tactile sensation one receives from a scale model. Drawing on 20 years experience in art and architecture, the author has developed this book on model making as it applies to students and professionals of the built environment. More than 300 photographs illustrate a multitude of techniques and the use of a wide variety of materials, providing a solid foundation for students and professionals to create and enjoy three-dimensional model making for interior design, architecture, landscape architecture, furniture design, theatrical design, and retail merchandising.

The physical model is an important communication tool for architects. Although the proliferation of CAD programs has enabled the creation of increasingly complex computer models and virtual environments, there is also a growing need to address the three-dimensional qualities of architecture that may be lost when using such media. This book focuses on the inspiring possibilities for modelling the built environment with all the different media and techniques available. In describing the use of different models in different contexts, the book provides a practical guide to how and why models are used, and what they are used for. This second edition includes more detailed step-by-step exercises, expanded discussion of materials and techniques, updated coverage of digital techniques and new case studies.