MAD Architects has announced that the Centre Pompidou in Paris has acquired 12 architectural models of MAD Architects, the collection represents 10 of the most significant projects of the studio. 

Each model uniquely exemplifies MAD’s architectural vision, and expresses the firm’s core values which look to envisioning a futuristic architecture that is akin to dream-like earthscapes – one that creates a conversation with nature, the earth, and the sky.

Pingtan Art Museum. Dimensions: 150*150*12 cm. Material(s): paint, resin, wood. Scale: 1:600. Image © Shu He

The Centre Pompidou’s permanent acquisition of these models signifies the first major cultural institution in Europe to procure such a collection of MAD’s work and will be acknowledged in an exhibition at the Centre Pompidou in April 2019.  

Encompassing both built structures and those that are currently under construction, the selection of works includes: MAD’s first built international project, the "Absolute Towers" in Canada, also known locally as the "Marilyn Monroe Towers”; the "Harbin Opera House" and "Chaoyang Park Plaza" in China; "Clover House" in Japan; the "Lucas Museum of Narrative Art" in the USA; and, "UNIC Residential" – MAD’s first project to be completed in Paris, France this year.

Clover House. Dimensions: 32*27*23 cm. Material(s): acrylic, PVC, wood. Scale: 1:100. Image courtesy of MAD

The collection illustrates projects developed between 2005 to the present day, and delineates how the firm’s design ethos and approach towards architecture has evolved. 

East 34th. Dimensions: 177*129*64 cm. Material(s): resin, wood. Scale: 1:100. Image courtesy of MAD

They represent a diverse range of works – from a family home transformed into a contemporary kindergarten, to residential towers that have been conceived as urban forests, to cultural buildings and mixed-use complexes that introduce natural forms and spaces into the city – that ignite a discourse about the future of architecture. 

Collectively, the 12 models express how MAD endeavors to create a balance between humanity, the city, and the environment, with a particular sensibility towards the spiritual and emotional needs of inhabitants, and their connection to nature.

Harbin Opera House. Dimensions: 68*81.5*22 cm. Material(s): paint, resin, wood. Scale: 1:400. Image © Shu He

MAD Architects was founded by Chinese architect Ma Yansong in 2004 in Beijing, China. The firm has been commissioned by clients of various backgrounds for design in urban planning, urban complexes, cultural buildings, residential programs; and has projects in Canada, China, France, Italy, Japan, and the United States. 

Lucas Museum of Narrative Art (Los Angeles). Dimensions: 241*90*21 cm. Material(s): paint, PVC, wood. Scale: 1:300. Image © CreatAR Images

In 2014, MAD was selected as principal designer for the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, becoming the first China-based architecture firm to design an overseas cultural landmark. MAD Architects is currently led by Ma Yansong, Dang Qun and Yosuke Hayano. MAD has offices in Beijing, Los Angeles, and Rome.

Lucas Museum of Narrative Art (Chicago). Dimensions: 120*80*40 cm. Material(s): paint, resin, wood. Scale: 1:500. Image © CreatAR Images

Nanjing Zendai Himalayas Center. Dimensions: 230*108*58 cm. Material(s): acrylic, crystal, PVC, wood. Scale: 1:300. Image © CreatAR Images

Absolute Towers. Dimensions: 111*56*125 cm. Material(s): foam, PLA, plastic, wood. Scale: 1:300. Image © Fang Zhenning

UNIC Residential. Dimensions: 60*52.5*39 cm. Material(s): paint, resin, wood. Scale: 1:200. Image courtesy of MAD

Yabuli CEF Conference Center. Dimensions: 217*181*42 cm. Material(s): acrylic, PVC, wood. Scale: 1:150. Image © CreatAR Images

Top image: Chaoyang Park Plaza. Dimensions: 29*60*30 cm. Material(s): concrete, resin. Scale: 1:400. Image courtesy of MAD

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