Toy skyscraper as tall as a real building

Reproduction stainless steel Erector parts

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Over the past six years I have been using metal toy construction parts, namely Meccano (British) and Erector (American), to design and build a series of bridges. In the course of building my various bridges I have used both new and used Erector and Meccano parts, and parts that I have designed to my own specifications.

For the Fourth Plinth project I propose to build two prototypical skyscraper frameworks in model form using reproduction stainless steel Erector girders. They will be very durable and can be exposed to the elements indefinitely. The double skyscraper is a direct response to the dimensions of the plinth.

I have always wanted to build a model skyscraper using Erector parts. The proposed model buildings, built from a toy and almost 7 metres in height, take on the dimensions of an actual full-size two-storey building. This full circle of an actual building inspiring a toy, which is then used to build a model building the size of an actual building is a beautiful metamorphosis.

Viewers will undoubtedly be reminded of New York's destroyed World Trade Center. I see this association as positive, as it will spark a conversation about all structural, economic, safety and aesthetic issues involved in building structures that push towards the heavens.