We’re pleased to announce this years B.15 Modelmaking Awards will be sponsored by Henning Larsen Architects.
“At Henning Larsen, model-making is a fundamental part of how we design. It allows us to translate ideas into physical form, test concepts, and refine spatial relationships. Our process begins with context—understanding a place, its character, and its challenges. From there, models help us explore ideas, experiment with materials, and ask new questions. Whether it’s 3D-printed components, compressed straw prototypes, or systems designed for disassembly, model-making is where innovation takes shape.
We work with both physical and digital models throughout the design journey—from early sketches to full-scale prototypes. Each model sparks dialogue, invites feedback, and drives iteration. They’re never static, always evolving. Even after a project ends, our models often find new life in exhibitions, continuing to inform and inspire.”
The criteria for this, our eleventh annual scheme, will remain unchanged and we encourage any MSA students who have used modelmaking in their work to submit their work for inclusion.
Projects are judged for their strengths as creative tools and creativity just as much as in their finish and materials choices.
We can’t stress enough that all physical models are valuable and can be considered for the awards scheme. If you have made models in your project work, take a look at the submission criteria and please submit your work to have it published and gain extra exposure to your fellow students, practicing architects and prospective employers.
Have a look at the fantastic past submissions here to see the wide range of models featured from all courses and year groups.
Who can submit?
If you’re a student at MSA that has made physical models then you are eligible to submit. Any study programme, Any year group, Any projects.
What is the criteria?
We’ll explain this in more detail in a follow up post but put simply, If you’re an MSA student on any programme who has made any physical model(s) of any kind then you can and should submit. Keep a look out for the full criteria and submissions opening after the Easter break. In the meantime keep making – any models count as we’re looking at overall use of modelmaking not necessarily just one model!
When do you need to submit?
Submission instructions will be posted here and on moodle in the next few days so look out for an update of how to submit your work. From the point of announcement you will have until the end of Monday 2nd June at 12.00pm to submit your projects.
How are the awards judged?
The submissions will be sent as a combined document to the sponsors who will select a shortlist to be viewed in person at the end of year show. The chosen projects will be marked against the submission criteria by representatives of B.15 and Henning Larsen.
When will we know the outcome?
The outcome of the judging process will be announced at the End of Year show awards presentation on the evening of Friday June 6th.
>>>>>>> SUBMISSIONS ARE NOW OPEN <<<<<<<
Please download the 2425_B15_Awards_Guidance+Templates
After preparing your submission as per the guidelines you can submit via this form link.
In the meantime if you have any questions about the scheme please get in touch via scott.miller@manchester.ac.uk
On behalf of the B.15 team and our sponsors at Henning Larsen, good luck, get making and we look forward to seeing your modelmaking work in the next few weeks!