Museum Dedicated to Architectural Models Opens in Tokyo

Before an elaborate structure is built, there’s usually an architectural model that comes first. The detail that goes into these scaled-down models qualifies them as works of art, but they’re often only seen by the people involved in the building process. At Archi-Depot, architecture fanatics will finally have a place to appreciate them. The newly opened museum is the first in Japan dedicated to showcasing architectural models, Spoon & Tamago reports.

Open to the public since June 18, the Tokyo museum features over 100 shelves displaying models from both seasoned industry professional and up-and-coming architects. Works from Kengo Kuma, Jun Aoki, and Wonderwall are all included, and the museum plans to expand the collection over time.

As visitors explore the museum, they’ll be able to scan QR codes to learn more information and see photos of the final buildings. The museum is open six days a week for a general admission price of 1000 yen (about $10).

If you're interested in checking out a similar collection a little closer to home, the Richard Meier Model Museum has been open in New Jersey since 2014.

[h/t Spoon & Tamago]

All images courtesy of Archi-Depot via Instagram.

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