Exploring the Roots of Architectural Creativity
An intriguing exhibition at MAK in Vienna invites visitors to explore decades of toy design. This exhibit, known as ‘Architectural Construction Kits 1890-1990,’ showcases 70 vintage kits, delving into bygone building sets. Presented by the Deutsches Architekturmuseum, this exhibit highlights the diverse materials and creativity of bygone eras.
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Discovering Historical Construction Kits Vienna: From Private Collection to Public Display
The foundation of this exhibition lies in the private collection of Claus Krieger, a graphic designer enamored with architectural kits from 1880 to 1960. Visitors are encouraged to explore these historical toys with materials such as wood, metal, rubber, and Galalith, an early bio-plastic. Eight interactive stations and a VR installation add to the exhibit’s immersive experience, emphasizing the “design play” aspect of these vintage materials.
The Challenge of Building Beyond Lego
Guest curator Oliver Elser invites visitors to discover a wider world of classic building kits. “You can pick up bricks that look familiar, only to realize they’re rubber,” Elser notes, emphasizing the unique challenge of these kits. Such variety makes building a meditative, albeit complex, process distinct from the Lego experience.
The Cathedral of Felt Blocks
A centerpiece of the exhibition is a striking cathedral constructed from 4,000 felt building blocks, prominently displayed in the MAK Columned Main Hall. This model raises questions about the intended audiences for these construction sets, suggesting an appeal to both children and adults through intricate design and construction complexity.
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Addressing Childhood Through Construction
Elser muses on the complex packaging and instructions of these kits, initially aimed at children viewed as “little builders.” The exhibition not only revisits past childhood experiences but also critiques the gender biases present in the marketing of these toys.
Making Historical Toys Playable Again
To create a tactile experience, Elser collaborated with Professor Andreas Kretzer from Stuttgart University of Applied Sciences. Together, they repurposed old PET bottles into felt-like materials, constructing a life-size cathedral model with over 4,000 pieces. This project encapsulates the spirit of imaginative play and design ingenuity through these classic sets.
An Open Invitation to Play
Elser hopes the exhibition leaves visitors smiling, having engaged both their hands and minds. While these kits are no longer produced, their historical and playful value endures, inviting a fresh appreciation for tactile building experiences in a visually dominated world.
‘Architectural Construction Kits 1890-1990’ runs from 7 October 2026 to 14 March 2027 at MAK (Museum für angewandte Kunst, Museum of Applied Arts), Stubenring 5, 1010 Vienna.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the exhibition at MAK in Vienna about?
The exhibition ‘Architectural Construction Kits 1890-1990’ at MAK in Vienna showcases 70 vintage construction kits, inviting visitors to explore toy design from 1890 to 1990. It highlights the diverse materials and creativity of bygone eras, with interactive stations and a VR installation to enhance the immersive experience.
What materials are used in the construction kits on display?
The historical construction kits on display use materials such as wood, metal, rubber, and Galalith, an early bio-plastic. These materials emphasize the ‘design play’ aspect and offer a tactile experience.
What is a centerpiece of the MAK exhibition?
A striking centerpiece of the exhibition is a cathedral constructed from 4,000 felt building blocks displayed prominently in the MAK Columned Main Hall. This model raises questions about the intended audiences for these construction sets, suggesting their appeal to both children and adults.