A glass cube perched atop solid blocks. That’s the Museum for Architectural Drawing in Berlin.
This isn’t just any museum. It’s a testament to the beauty of architectural drawings. The Tchoban Foundation opened it in 2013. Their aim is to celebrate the art of hand-drawn architecture. They showcase drawings from the 16th century to the present day. The collection includes works by renowned architects. Even Sergei Tchoban himself a leading architectural draftsman contributes. His collection began with a drawing by Pietro di Gottardo Gonzaga. It has since blossomed into hundreds of sheets.
The building itself is a work of art. Designed by SPEECH Tchoban & Kuznetsov it’s striking. Four solid floors of concrete are topped by a glass floor. It looks like stacked blocks a clever allusion to the stacked drawings inside. The exterior is adorned with magnified architectural sketches in relief. The concrete’s color and the line drawings echo the museum’s purpose. The lower floors are windowless to protect the delicate drawings. Optimal conditions for preservation are paramount. The top floor the glass cube houses the foundation’s office.
The museum hosts three to four exhibitions a year. These exhibitions feature both pieces from the Tchoban Foundation’s collection and loans. Collaborations with other museums worldwide enrich their offerings. Past exhibitions included works from the Sir John Soane’s Museum in London and the Albertina in Vienna. The Museum for Architectural Drawing has also presented exhibitions dedicated to iconic figures like Lebbeus Woods and Aldo Rossi. The range is impressive. It showcases the evolution of architectural drawing. It spans centuries and numerous styles.
The Museum for Architectural Drawing is more than a repository. It is a vibrant hub for architectural enthusiasts. It’s a place to appreciate the artistry and skill of architectural drawing. It’s a place to explore the history of architecture itself. Come inside let your imagination soar amidst these incredible works. The Museum for Architectural Drawing awaits.