Can you rebuild the past? The Berlin Schloss

A debate has raged in Berlin for the past 2 decades over whether to rebuild the historic Berlin Schloss or City Palace on historic Museum Island. Badly damaged during WWII, the communists tore down the palace in 1950 to make way for their Palace of the Republic, a hideous steel, glass, & asbestos multi-use structure which was recently, in-turn, torn down.

The Schloss had served as a public art museum since 1918 but was started in 1443 as a royal palace. Constantly renovated over hundreds of years, the exterior stayed fixed to the baroque period while the interiors reflected the styles of the day. The dome was rebuilt in the mid 19th century by none other than the architect Karl Shinkel in collaboration with Stuler.

Many people have debated rebuilding the historic structure because they claim it has overtones of the previous monarchy, but what monument in Europe isn't tainted by history? In these photos you see photographs of a model of what is currently under construction taken by my Australian Penpal at the neighboring Bode Museum in Berlin.

What these people seem to want is a building of our own age -much as the communists wanted in their construction of the Palace of the Republic. Would they want someone like Frank Gehry (heaven forbid) to build something that doesn't match the historic area in the center of the city and would be reviled in 10 years time (as well as now)?

The compromise has come about that the exterior will be built to closely match the former palace with modern interiors which will house a modern, non-western art museum. The costly exterior recreation will be done mainly through private donations which have nearly been fulfilled and plans to be finished in 2019.

The undertaking is gargantuan as can be expected for such a massive building site. The exterior carved stonework has been meticulously copied from historic photos and paintings. Each piece must be modeled full-size in clay (which takes about a month) and approved by a panel before being carved in sandstone by masons (each small piece can take up to 2 months by one artisan).

 Here you can see 1 of 43 required eagles which will adorn the facade.

The workmanship is amazing; encouraging to know it exists in this day and age! The sandstone cartouche above took a mason 2 months to complete. Talk about job security!

Above you can see construction from last month. What do you think -would you have decided to rebuild the historic palace to fit within this historic district or hired a modern day architect to build something new?
See more images of the building's past and future HERE.
This article in the WSJ details the controversy in more detail.

Architectural Models from Chisel & Mouse - now in miniature AND Frank Lloyd Wright

I recently found out some very exciting shopping news that will have many of you reaching for your wallets: One of my favorite companies, Chisel & Mouse that produces architectural models, has expanded their line to include not only miniature models but also projects by Frank Lloyd Wright!

I was surprised to arrive home last week and find a large box from sponsor Chisel & Mouse with 4 samples of their delightful and now miniature models.  All four are of well known Frank Lloyd Wright projects here within the United States.

The first I'm showing here in 4 different locations throughout my apartment is the V.C. Morris Gift Shop in San Francisco (that I'm very excited to be able to visit while on vacation in California next week!). Expanding on their idea now that many of their models can be wall mounted (as shown above) all of these include a discrete hanging spot on the back for easy display.

The wide base also allows them to sit on a mantel, bookshelf, nestled in a tablescape, desktop, or wherever you choose.

 I think their best seller will probably be this highly detailed model of the NYC Guggenheim Museum.

One of the most impressive projects by Frank Lloyd Wright is his Unity Temple in Oak Park, IL which I visited while in college.  Here you see it resting on my bookshelf where all 4 models have ended up -an impressive collection.

I think these miniature models make the perfect host /hostess gift and just in time for summer houseguest season!  Check out these and other models on their website: Chisel & Mouse. Tell them Architect Design sent you and receive a 10% discount with code "arcdesign"

Chisel & Mouse: at it again!

You may remember me talking about Chisel & Mouse before and now the guys at Chisel & Mouse are at it again; this time transforming many of their beautiful plaster architectural models to hanging. Above you can see their version of the entrance to Buckingham Palace on one of my bookshelves but also hanging on my wall below.

They're constantly adding new models to their inventory and improving existing models. Also, the new models are signed and dated. Loving these guys and can't wait to see what they come up with next!