The material and digital model

The topic discussed in this book involves the complex field of architectural representation, more precisely the use of physical models to represent architectural designs. The use of this expressive medium is neither a new trend nor a modern solution to the problem of architectural representation; it is a modus operandi used by designers since the dawn of human civilisation. In fact, artefacts testifying to its use are on display in many anthropological museums and other infrastructures all over the world. Despite the fact its roots are lost in the mists of time, it was only during the Italian Renaissance that this kind of architectural representation was developed, improved, and extensively exploited. The architects active during this period in history are the ones to be credited with its enhancement and systematic use during the different design stages; they are also responsible for having cited and meticulously illustrated it in architectural treatises which began to be written again after a long period during which this tradition had been discarded. In their writings they defined it as the most efficient representation technique available to designers. This book offers the reader the possibility to become familiar with important architectural artefacts which have been used as models to corroborate this theory. The reader will also be provided with information on the digital model and its correct application. The author sincerely hopes that this literary effort will help improve widespread awareness of the importance of this expressive medium, and that models will regain their rightful place in the didactic curricula of the training programmes of architects and engineers.