Michelin House Architectural Model
This architectural object is inspired by Michelin House, one of London’s most distinctive examples of early twentieth-century Art Nouveau architecture.
Completed in 1911 as the British headquarters of the Michelin Tyre Company, Michelin House is celebrated for its exuberant façade, rich ornamentation, and unapologetic use of architecture as corporate expression. These qualities make it particularly compelling when interpreted as a physical architectural object.
Read the full Michelin House architecture guide
An Art Nouveau landmark, distilled into form
Unlike the restrained commercial buildings of its era, Michelin House embraces decoration, symbolism, and narrative as core architectural elements. Its expressive façade, sculptural reliefs, and graphic composition transform the building into a form of architectural storytelling.
This architectural model focuses on the elements that define the building’s identity:
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the strong, symmetrical façade composition
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the graphic rhythm of openings and ornament
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the sculptural quality of its massing
Reduced to object form, these features reveal the building’s architectural logic with clarity and focus.
Why Michelin House works as an architectural model
Michelin House translates especially well into an architectural object because its design is driven by:
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composition rather than scale
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graphic clarity rather than subtle detailing
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symbolic form rather than pure function
At reduced scale, the building’s decorative rhythm and overall presence remain legible, allowing its architectural character to be appreciated independently of material richness or colour.
Rather than functioning as a literal miniature, this object captures the architectural essence of Michelin House.
Craft, materials, and finish
Each Michelin House object is crafted with an emphasis on precision and restraint, allowing form and proportion to take precedence. The finish is intentionally understated, enabling light and shadow to articulate the building’s geometry in a way that echoes the sculptural quality of the original façade.
The result is an object that sits naturally within:
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architectural and design studios
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curated interiors
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bookshelves and workspaces
It appeals to architects, designers, and collectors with an interest in Art Nouveau, early corporate architecture, and London landmarks.
An object shaped by architecture and identity
Michelin House occupies a unique place in architectural history — a building that openly celebrates brand, movement, and modern life through design. As an object, it becomes a study in how architecture can communicate identity, ambition, and optimism through form alone.
This piece offers a tactile way to engage with one of London’s most expressive commercial buildings as a work of architecture rather than advertising.
Product details
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Subject: Michelin House, Chelsea, London
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Architect: François Espinasse
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Architectural style: Art Nouveau
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Original completion: 1911
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Designed and made by: Chisel & Mouse
Learn more about Michelin House
For a detailed exploration of the building’s architecture, ornament, symbolism, and cultural significance, see our in-depth guide: