制造模型

MAKE Models is a Sydney based Architectural Model making studio, established in 2013 by Masters of Architecture graduates Celeste and Nikola. The studio was formed in response to the dwindling use of physical means of representation in contemporary design processes. MAKE Models is spurred on by the belief that a physical model still has the ability to capture a specific, abstract character, idea and quality in a universal language. By using reduced material palettes, focusing primarily on hardwood timbers, foams and resin casts, MAKE works supports abstract ideas, rather than moving them toward the hyper real, bringing forward the core architectural ideas of each specific project.

MAKE Models has contributed to several winning architecture competition entries including Andrew Burges Architects‘ Green Square Aquatic Centre; Villa + Villa’s Brokenwood Wines and CHROFI‘s Harbord Diggers proposal. We recently had a chat to the very talented duo about the art of model making and their approach, and here’s what they had to say.

Woods Bagot, Conceptual Office Model, 1:200 (Brass, Acrylic, Basswood, American Oak) 2016.

Woods Bagot, Conceptual Office Model, 1:200 (Brass, Acrylic, Basswood, American Oak) 2016.

+ Hello Celeste & Nikola, welcome to Yellowtrace and thank you for taking the time to e-chat! Could you please give us a quick introduction on yourselves? How did you become interested in architecture, and at what point did you decide you wanted to specialise in model-making? And how did you two meet?

Confidential 1:1000 (Timber, Acrylic, 3D Print) 2016.

+ Could you please talk a little bit about the process of working with your clients (and exactly who are your clients?). During which part of the project are you typical engaged – initial concept stages, design development, or final/ marketing stages?

Bowerbird Interiors, Doll House, 1:12, (Acrylic, Various Fabrics, Solid Timbers, Plaster, 3D Print) 2015.

+ What are your favourite types of models – quick & dirty, or more sophisticated variety? What are some of your favourite materials to work with? And how long do your models usually take to produce?

Villa + Villa, Brokenwood Wines Winning Competition Model, 1:200 (Solid Timbers, Basswood, Resin, ) 2014.

+ How intimately do you feel you get involved in various projects? Do you ever feel that you have some input in the design process and the physical manifestation of buildings?

Urban Possible (UP), 52 O’dea Avenue Competition Model, 1:200 (Solid Timbers, Foam, Paper, Cardboard, Acrylic) 2014.

Crone Partners, Mandaue Site Model, 1:1000 (Solid Timbers, Acrylic) 2014.

Grimshaw, Conceptual Model, 1:500 (Mahogony, Acrylic) 2014.

Chrofi, Harbord Diggers Winning Competition Model, 1:500 (Foam, Acrylic) 2015.

+ How is your studio structured? i.e. How many of you work in the studio, what types of skills do you have in-house, is there anything you outsource, and how many projects do you handle at any one time?

Chrofi, Lune de Sang Pavilion, 1:200 (Solid Timbers, Basswood, Plywood, Acrylic) 2014.

Andrew Burges Architects, Green Sqaure Aquatic Centre Winning Competition Model, 1:500 (Solid Timbers, Basswood, Plywood) 2015.

Chrofi with McGregor Coxall, Green Sqaure Aquatic Centre Competition model, 1:200 (Solid Timbers, Basswood, Plywood) 2015.

Andrew Burges Architects, Green Sqaure Aquatic Centre Winning Competition Model, 1:200 (Solid Timbers, Basswood, Plywood) 2015.

+ What are you most proud of professionally? And what has been your favourite project so far?

Grimshaw, Conceptual Model, 1:200 (Mahogony, Acrylic) 2014.

BVN, 1:200 (Solid Timbers) 2015.

Woods Bagot, Conceptual Model, 1:500 (Solid Timbers, Acrylic) 2015.

Woods Bagot, Detail of George Street Site Model, 1:500 (Solid Timbers) 2015.

+ Who or what are some of your influence? What other architects, designers, peers and creatives in general do you admire?

Bureau SRH, DA model, 1:200 (Solid Timbers, Acrylic) 2015.

Andrew Burns Architects, Museum of 20th Century Art Berlin Competition Model, 1:200 (Solid Timbers, 3D Print, Plaster, Acrylic) 2015.

+ What advice would you give to emerging designers who want to follow your path? What was one of your biggest lessons learned since starting your business?

+ What’s the best mistake you have ever made?

+ What is your most treasured belonging?

+ What’s one thing other people may not know about you?

+ It’s not very cool, but I really like…

+ In ten years I’d like to be…

Photo by Calum York.

[All images courtesy of Make Models.]