ARCHITECTURAL MODELS
Architectural Models are still one of the best ways to explain a new design or scheme. Architectural Models are made in various sizes (scale) and in many styles and finishes. All have the primary function of informing would-be investors, purchasers, local communities, or boards of directors what a new design looks like and its impact on the surrounding area.
Architectural models are made to look exactly like the building or scheme. Details must be scaled down to suit the architectural model scale, but the overall look should accurately represent the finished scheme. Careful attention must be paid to colour when making architectural models. Colours should be scaled down to suit the model scale to achieve a natural look.
The scales usually used by model makers are:
- 1:1 Full-size mockup mockups, i.e. structural details, complex geometry, fixings, complex connections, etc.
- 1:2 Details
- 1:5 Details
- 1:10 Interior spaces/furniture
- 1:20 Interior spaces/furniture
- 1:50 Interior spaces/detailed floor plans/different floor levels
- 1:100 Building plans/layouts/tower & building models
- 1:500 Building layouts/site plans
- 1:1000 Urban scale for site or location plans
- 1:1250 Site plans
- 1:2500 Site plans/city maps
The technology for making architectural models has changed over the years, omitting some of the hand skills of years ago. The introduction of laser cutters and, more recently, 3D printers has resulted in shorter model build times. However, we attempt to balance traditional model-making and new technology.
Laser Cutters are the industry standard for model makers. They are used to cut 2D model parts, usually out of acrylic. Laser artwork is drawn from Architects’ drawings, and the laser cutter cuts exactly what is drawn to a tolerance of around 1000th of a millimetre (a hair thickness).
Information to build an architectural model is usually supplied as CAD drawings drawn by an architect. From these drawings, a trace is made of just the essential parts. This laser artwork is then sent to the laser cutter for cutting, usually in acrylic of varying thicknesses. Parts are assembled by hand and finished to the client’s specifications.
Floor plates are cut and stacked the same way the building would be built, often around a central core and supported by internal columns. Elevations are then cut and added with clear acrylic for the windows and solid white for the clad. The whole model is then sprayed to match the colours of the scheme or sprayed white for a more stylised model preferred by architects.
More recently, 3D printers were added to the model makers’ tools. A 3D printer creates a physical model directly from a 3D computer model. Some model cleaning is required, but the model quickly goes from the finished print to the exhibited model. We feel there are still downsides to the finish and colours available, hence why we use 3D printed models as part of the model-making process; we use them for complex forms but still hand finish and colour prints before placing them on a model to ensure the quality of the finish.
“Architectural Models” “Learn More”
We build models, including architectural models at various scales, for exhibition and marketing events.
“Media Tables” “Learn More” To tell a story or portray an idea, a media table replaces the model base with LED screens to display information about the project.
“Bespoke Makers” “Learn More” We can build almost any item using various materials and finishes.
“LED Displays” “Learn More” are for advertising or signage. A modular LED matrix can be connected to any size. They are for indoor or outdoor use. Details to follow. Please inquire by email.
“Where a model may be required.”
“Architectural Models” “Learn More” To explain a new design or scheme.
“Point of Sale” and “Learn More” Bespoke items to display the latest product or inform about the latest offers.
“Photography Props” For advertising or promotions.
“Medical” and “Learn More” To show anatomy or new instruments.
“1:1 MockupsMockups” “Learn More” To explain designs at built sizes, i.e. telephone kiosks and bus stops.
“Film” “Learn More” Prop making and on set models.
“Product” “Learn More” To show new packaging designs to iron out problems before manufacture.
For general inquiries, please click on the button below.
We look forward to hearing from you.
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“An Example of 3D Printing” _video link=”https://youtu.be/JsTqay8tyUA”