Anticipate exhibitions of models and materials, plus special exhibitions and events.

The General Incorporated Foundation for the Preservation of Architectural Culture was established in February, spearheaded by architects such as Riken Yamamoto and Shigeru Ban. Its purpose is to provide a shared space for the systematic archiving of models and materials created by architects. The cornerstone of this initiative is "Architecture Depot," which commenced operations in April.

While architectural models are often collected by many museums overseas, in Japan, they are typically kept within individual offices. Riken Yamamoto, the representative director of the foundation, states, "We often struggle to find places to store models, and sometimes have no choice but to discard them. However, models are vital to architecture. Discussions are more easily conveyed when centered around a model. Furthermore, I believe buildings should be appreciated by many, not just as the works of architects. Models play a crucial role in this regard."



The defining characteristic of "Architecture Depot" is its aim not only for the "preservation" of architectural models and materials but also for their "utilization." In essence, the "depot" will function as a "museum." The foundation's current outline includes the following five points:

1. Preservation and Management Services
We provide services for managing architectural models under optimal preservation conditions.

2. Exhibition Services
Models in storage will be kept with the rule of being displayed. We will open our doors widely to the general public, functioning as a museum. Special exhibitions will be held several times a year.

3. Sales Services
When architectural firms wish to sell their models, the foundation will act as an agent to sell them to museums and collectors.

4. Collection Services
Excellent models will be acquired as part of the collection, publicly displayed, and loaned for other exhibitions.

5. Education and Outreach Services
We will develop educational outreach programs such as lectures, gallery talks, and workshops.

Architects gain a place to store their models and materials, while the general public can witness, learn about, and even purchase architectural works that pioneered their eras. Through this dual approach, we aim to further invigorate Japan's architectural industry.



The location is on the first floor of Warehouse TERRADA, situated near Tennozu Isle Station. It will be laid out with 120 shelves, each 3.8 meters high and 1.5 meters wide, serving as the permanent space for storage and exhibition.

With its convenient location, less than 30 minutes by train from Haneda Airport, the facility anticipates international visitors and projects an annual attendance of 30,000 people.


Architecture Depot / Museum of Contemporary Architectural Models (tentative name)
2-6-10 Higashi-Shinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, within Warehouse TERRADA
Schedule:
March onwards: Application acceptance begins
April onwards: Operations commence
May - August: Museum opens, opening special exhibition held

General Incorporated Foundation for the Preservation of Architectural Culture
archidepot@gmail.com