The (changed) roles of physical models in building design practice and education

Already used in ancient history physical models have been known as an important design practice tool. Although their role has changed, models currently still aid design decisions as form, geometry and detailing; help determine and verify material/structural behavior; visualize and communicate different stages of design projects to different stake-holders. Digital platforms have completely taken over analogue approaches in building practice, yet physical models remain an important design practice tool that, used in conjunction with digital work flows still offers irreplaceable input. In both engineering and architectural education– physical models are utilized more than ever. The paper presents a study of the current status and presents the (changed) role of physical models in building design practice and education. Through examples of different types of models, case studies of working practices, as well as educational workshops in architecture and engineering, the paper puts forward the hypothesis that physical models are still a very powerful, important and current design tool. The paper concludes with current trends, opportunities and limitations of the physical model, as a tool within a digitalized design and educational practice.