Charrette Submission for The Museum of Modern Art Expansion 1997, New York (Manhattan), New York, First Phase

Toyo Ito

1997

A small paper charrette model by Toyo Ito proposing a “lying skyscraper” for MoMA’s expansion, using cut and folded paper to explore a horizontal alternative to the conventional tower.

It reads like a miniature stage—white cubic blocks flank a central accordion of fine folded slats, the handwritten title in orange adding a human touch while crisp shadows animate the geometric composition.

As a conceptual model it distills Ito’s challenge to skyscraper logic—turning vertical ambition into a horizontal sequence—and shows how simple paper experiments can test and communicate radical urban ideas.

Palette

Art Terms

Architectural model Architecture Model Prototype Design Contemporary art Conceptual art

Exhibitions

Architectural Models from the Collection

1974

Tomorrow's Small House: Models and Plans

1945

Visionary Architecture

1960

Thonet Furniture

1953