Small Objects, Big Ideas: The Architect’s Model

In Small Objects, Big Ideas: The Architect's Model, we celebrate the architectural model as a tested instrument in the design process. From education to practice, these small informative objects offer big, exciting ideas.

For architects, the model is a vital communication tool. It differs from loose freehand sketches, intricate technical drawings, or sleek computer renderings. Models link design intent and building execution. They are life-size buildings in miniature.

Models play an important role in the creative and technical development of projects. They give designers the power to experiment and solve problems. They also help clients imagine a design. Models can save time and money. They can also sell a project, and that's good news for everyone.

Explore 30 models representing working projects, completed projects, and theoretical projects.


Participating Architects, Designers, and Artists

Adrienne Moumin, Cooper Carry, D. A. BOOTH ARCHITECT, Division1 Architects, Douglas Crawford Architect, EL Studio, Gensler, KGD Architecture (formerly Kishimoto.Gordon PC), McInturff Architects, Perkins&Will, Rameez Munawar, SGA COS LLC, Skidmore Owings & Merrill, SmithGroup, The Kurylas Studio, Tom Shiner FAIA, and Winstanley Architects & Planners

Participating Students

Ben Wang (B. Arch., SU) and Lawry Boyer (B. Arch., SU), Jake Easton (M.Arch.3, VT), Jake Eaton (B.S. Arch., CUA), Nathaniel Brown Jr. (B. Arch., UMD), and Zhenghao Gong (B.A. Arch., UMD)


Acknowledgments

Small Objects, Big Ideas: The Architect’s Model is organized by the District Architecture Center for the Suman Sorg Gallery. The exhibition is made possible with generous support from the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities. Additional support provided by AIA|DC Sustaining Firm Affiliate Members.

Executive Director: Mary Fitch, AICP, Hon. AIA
Director of Exhibitions and Public Programs: Scott Clowney, Assoc. AIA

Design made possible by ArchiCAD20, courtesy of Graphisoft
Printing production by BluEdge