In a series of films by Jim Stephenson, Joe Morris reflects on the role of model-making in the work of Morris & Company

Buildings.

‘#OnReflection’ is a series of seven short films by Jim Stephenson exploring the role that modelmaking plays in the design process of architect Morris & Company. Each of the films is narrated by practice founder Joe Morris and focusses on a particular theme, such as ‘modelmaking as sketching’, and ‘modelmaking as construction information’. Three of the films can be seen below, while the others can viewed at Morris & Company’s Instagram page.

“#OnReflection is the result of a pause for thought during the period of lockdown”, says the architect. The enforced closure of studio afforded an opportunity to look back on 16 years of work, manifested in the accumulation of sketch and presentation models on the shelves, and to consider the future of practice. In that respect, the model is the lens through which attitudes to teamwork, building authorship, studio culture and architectural values can be seen in focus.