The Architectural Model: Tool, Fetish, Small Utopia

This book is the result of pioneering research work at the Deutsches Architekturmuseum (DAM, German Museum of Architecture) in Frankfurt-on-the-Main. Investigated is the architectural model as distinct means and method of creating and presenting architecture or architectural ideas and concepts, rather than the model merely representing a specific building e.g. as part of an architect's oeuvre. While architectural photography and drawing has been subject of countless exhibitions and publications, no comparable research on the architectural model has been done so far. This book coincides with an exhibition at the DAM in summer 2012. The authors and curators have drawn from the museum's own vast collection of models created by over 400 architects from 25 countries. The book presents 100 models, featuring works of renowned architects such as Norman Foster, Arata Isozaki, Louis I. Kahn, Rem Koolhaas, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Frei Otto, Aldo Rossi, Skidmore Owings & Merrill and James Stirling. The images are complemented by detailed descriptions of each item and by comprehensive essays on the results of the entire research project.