Output details

Architectural modelmaking

This two-year project (2008-2010) sought to generate and disseminate research in relation to how architectural designers develop and communicate their ideas. Through triangulation of creative practice alongside primary and secondary sources, the research provides an account of the use of models in architectural design and contributes a framework for understanding them as dynamic tools of design. This is specific to this publication and enabled the research to evaluate and question the validity of traditional methods of viewing modelmaking. Whilst conceived as informed teaching materials to reach and engage a wide audience across education and professional contexts, the research embodies perspectives that contribute to the understanding of how, why and by whom architectural models are utilised in the design process rather than simply what they are used for. Presenting an effective methodology for the appropriate discrimination of model types, the research expands on existing research in the discipline and seeks to enrich such discourse by progressing the field.

The research project’s relevance to current debate is timely given the recent shift afforded through digital technologies and fabrication which has led students and practitioners to return to material practices and processes. Therefore, the assembling of information as structured in the research provides imaginative scope for designers to influence their practice in an effective manner. The novel framework for considering models has been shared through four conferences to date. This publication seeks to be the core title in this area of discourse and whilst initially produced in UK, Italian, Spanish and US editions, it has subsequently been published in both Dutch and Chinese. It has sold over 14,000 copies worldwide to date and garnered very favourable reviews to support its status as the leading publication in its subject area. A second edition has been submitted and scheduled for publication in September 2014.