Farnsworth House Architectural Model

This architectural object is inspired by the Farnsworth House, one of the most influential works of modern architecture, designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.

Conceived as a glass pavilion suspended within the landscape, Farnsworth House represents the reduction of architecture to its most essential elements: structure, proportion, and space. These qualities make it uniquely suited to interpretation as a physical architectural object.

Read the full Farnsworth House architecture guide

A modernist icon, distilled into form

Completed in 1951, Farnsworth House is defined by its absolute clarity. A white steel frame supports two horizontal planes — floor and roof — enclosing a single open space wrapped entirely in glass.

This architectural model focuses on the elements that define the building’s identity:

• the floating horizontal planes

• the disciplined steel structure

• the balance between enclosure and openness

By stripping the building back to its core geometry, the object allows Mies van der Rohe’s architectural ideas to be experienced in a concentrated, tactile way.

Why Farnsworth House works as an architectural model

 

Farnsworth House translates exceptionally well into object form because its design is driven by:

• proportion rather than ornament

• structure rather than surface detail

• spatial logic rather than decoration

When reduced in scale, these principles remain legible and powerful. The model becomes a study in modernist composition — an exploration of balance, rhythm, and restraint.

Rather than replicating the house as a miniature replica, this object captures its architectural essence.

 

Craft, materials, and finish

 

Each Farnsworth House object is produced with an emphasis on precision and material honesty. The restrained finish reflects the character of the original building, allowing light and shadow to articulate the form, much as they do on the full-scale structure.

The result is an object that sits naturally within:

• architectural studios

• design-led interiors

• bookshelves and workspaces

It appeals to architects, students, and anyone drawn to the ideals of modernist architecture.

 

An object shaped by architectural philosophy

 

Farnsworth House is often associated with Mies van der Rohe’s principle “less is more”. As an object, the building’s philosophy becomes tangible — a physical expression of clarity, discipline, and reduction.

This piece offers a way to engage with one of modernism’s most influential ideas through a crafted, enduring form.

 

Product details

 

• Subject: Farnsworth House, Illinois, USA

• Architect: Ludwig Mies van der Rohe

• Architectural style: International Style / Modernism

• Original completion: 1951

• Designed and made by: Chisel & Mouse

 

Learn more about Farnsworth House

 

For a detailed exploration of the house’s architecture, design principles, historical context, and cultural legacy, see our in-depth guide:

Farnsworth House Architecture: Mies van der Rohe’s Glass Pavilion