The Ultimate Guide The Ultimate Guide: Architectural Models Architectural Models
The Ultimate Guide The Ultimate Guide: Architectural Models Architectural Models
The Ultimate Guide The Ultimate Guide: Architectural Models Architectural Models
At present, architectural model is not only a presentation tool in the architect’s toolbox, but also a
Make an architectural model of the new house you just purchased, or the interior space the dream
what material they may be made from and what techniques are available.
The communication during the design process is equally important to the construction project as
well.
Having awareness of the ways that used to express architects’ design is necessary.
The luxury architectural model making project-Opus Hong Kong
In order to represent architectural ideas that originate in the mind of architects, the models have
In simple terms, the architectural model is a physical 3D artifact that results from working out
architectural ideas.
It is also an object which is created to show scale physical images of existing or historical buildings.
In addition, the architectural model itself is an object of beauty which can be appreciated by the
observers.
In 4600 BC, the first fired-clay model of building from was made.
This early model was not used to represent the design idea but was buried as funerary objects.
And the earliest architectural model appeared during Han Dynasty in China.
The scale model of pottery buildings was made of soil embryo and its appearance imitated wood
pavilions.
Models of pottery buildings in Han Dynasty
Architectural models started to be used in the construction projects since the fifteenth century as the
The intention of making architectural models was to make the design as realistic as possible.
What’s more, during the Renaissance, architectural models were extensively used to demonstrate
finished design like the Models of Basilica of Saint Mary of the Flower.
Model of Basilica of Saint Mary of the Flower in 1418
Later in the twentieth century, conceptual architectural models appeared to represent architects’
On the other hand, it became a connection between the fine arts and architecture.
Architectural design models were considered as the best objects to embody the design of the
projects to the public and the clients since the latest decades of the twentieth century.
Materials were well chosen to represent the realism and effects of building facade and to make its
In some cases, an abstract architectural model of unbuildable designs was made for the visionary
For instance, a model of Kiesler Endless House gave a fulfillment to the visual desire of the public.
Since then, innovation has been seen as the key to the success of architectural models.
The evolution of architectural models kept going on until presentation models appeared and started
In the world of today, together with the CAD (Computer Aided Design) and advanced model making
techniques such as laser cutting machine, 3D printing, and architectural model makers can fabricate
precision.
In particular, the presentation models are widely used in urban planning and architecture design
of homes, hotels, resorts, office building and retail spaces, educational institutions and other public
With the development of modern advanced technologies, current architectural models can be
In order to cope with the rapid development of construction industry’s diversification, and to show the
clients and the public the features of design, such as the space layout, structure, surrounding
In advance, how to manufacture an architectural model quickly and perfectly is becoming an urgent
necessity.
Furthermore, after considering the current global environmental issues and the sustainable
The outcomes and the applications of architectural models are keeping improving and innovating.
It means that architectural creativity will not stop to use architectural models widely.
CHAPTER 2:
Nowadays, architectural model is been concerned as a bridge between architects’ design philosophy
Moreover, the architectural model plays an indispensable role in the planning, fundraising,
Making architectural models is an effective and efficient way to help the architect and the client to
communicate.
It can show the potential housing purchaser the location of their units and its surroundings.
Natural elements such as afternoon shade can also be viewed through the displaying of site models
It is an excellent way to demonstrate the design of the construction projects by displaying stunning
architectural models.
A Residential Architectural Model for sales and marketing
sitemap for a park to give visitors an idea of where they are and how to get to the desired locations.
In addition, local citizens can also benefit from model exhibition to get a better understanding and
awareness of the project and how this project will affect them.
A location model for indication
C2.4: Fundraising
Having a good architectural model can inspire the investors’ understanding, enthusiasm, and
confidence, and thus help to attract donors and sponsors in a fundraising effort.
A site model for fundraising
ensure whether the certain construction project will be cohesive with the local related development
plan and the surroundings of the site during the approval process.
It is a perfect way to help to get the construction permit for building projects.
A good architectural model can provide a better understanding of the project to the regulators.
CHAPTER 3:
Generally, nowadays architectural models can be categorized into types according to their uses or
functions.
The conceptual model is made at the initial architectural design stage to discover the desired shape,
sketches.
Conceptual model is used to analyze the characteristics of the projects as well as the spatial layout,
Commonly, these architectural models are made of cheap materials such as foam core
cor and
design.
These architectural models are easy and fast to manipulate once they are assembled.
Working models are objects which can assist to find new solutions and show the course of a design
Different from conceptual models, working models are made of complicated materials like metal,
concrete, etc.
These models aim to describe detailed shapes, materials and other elements like the building
facade.
Furthermore, architects are able to communicate their architectural ideas to the clients by showing
working models.
An example of a working model
Usually, presentation model is being made to the scale which required by the clients.
These models are usually made in detail to give the clients or decision making bodies a true
Particular viewpoints can be addressed by showing the detailed building facade and other elements
of the projects.
For example, in order to bring the architectural model to life, a top quality landscaping model may
include a variety of bushes and trees made out of different colors and materials.
Even the actual branches and leaf forms can be seen to add to the overall effect.
An Example of the presentation model, Ain Dubai
Many city planning authorities use urban planning models to promote urban redevelopment as well
Older parts can help people to understand what cities looked like in the past. Updated parts can
City models allow the public to gain perspective on the development of the city which includes land
Most city models are fully interactive and can be controlled by touch screen.
Different lighting zone can be displayed once the relevant image on the screen is touched.
The model of “Doha City Planning Model” is an impressive example which contains 1000 resin
miniature buildings and even every corner of the Doha city was included.
settlement like farms and parks, and other facilities like wind turbines and solar PV units.The
purpose of the landscape model is to analyze the impact of terrain changes, building layout, and
After scaling down the site to a required small scale, every scenario can be accurately recreated for
the relevant departments and authorities to explore new development plans.Landscape model can
In some cases, landscape model is being used to attract investments or give the public an insight
Landscape Model
Office building model is created in a high level of detail requested by the clients to provide an
architect’s design to life by creating various lighting configuration, detailed building facade especially
windows details and textures and other encourage elements like people, vehicles, and surrounding
landscape.
Residential building models are invaluable tools in the retail world for pre-construction approval,
Residential building models can provide the potential housing buyer or investors a good
understanding of the architectural design by showing the road and path layout, entrance, building
Therefore, it is a great tool for the real estate sales office for marketing.
Villa models are usually made in small scale, for example, 1:25, 1:50.
Villa model makes used mechanized components for taking the floor levels up and down to show the
complete interior design including the furniture, the lighting fixtures, swimming pools and other
amenities.Villa models are widely used by the developers to illustrate the building projects to the
Villa model
The primary function of shopping mall models is attracting investments and merchants to settle
down.
In order to represent commercial atmosphere, the materials used to make retailing architectural
backlit signage, LED billboards, etc can help to enhance the overall effect of adding to the shopping
mall models.
The main purpose of making a hotel model is to show a vivid image of the hotel’s features, thus
A variation of lighting effect is created to make a distinction between commercial and residential
Almost all the sophisticated details are replicated perfectly by the architectural model
makers.Components like real water gushing system can produce remarkable effects when it is used
At present, new stadiums are popping up since the sport is becoming increasingly popular.
The stadium model has two main functions.One is expressing the design concept of the stadium.
The other is displaying the stadium seating plan to the audience.Electric lights and manicured grass
Theme Park Models are widely used for public display and generate clients’ interest to attract
investments.
But most importantly, the theme park model can tell the theme stories which inform and inspire
people in an education and entertaining way.Entertainment facilities like ray speed circuit, startle
castle and waterfalls are the key components to make a realistic effect.
Theme Park Model
The current design of the museum is tending to be modern and abstract especially its shapes.
In order to reflect these bold design ideas, high-tech and effective technologies and skilled
In many cities, the museum is being concerned as the landmark of the city.Therefore, the city
government requires elaborate and detailed museum model to attract visitors all over the world.
Museum Model
The factory model demonstrates how the factory operating after it is built.
Factory model includes varies facilities of the manufacturing plant and waste treatment process,
etc.Sometimes the factory model requires customized components such as wind turbine and
And adding some landscaping detail, trucks and workers can bring the factory model to life.
Factory Model
In most cases, bridge model is made for exhibition purpose and architecture design competition.
It requires a high level of detail to represent the features and motion of the bridge.For instance, a
suspension bridge model incorporates copper wire and smooth casting premium fishing line to make
In reality, a shipyard is divided into several working zones according to different types of work in
production.
It includes component fabricating area, preassembling and coating area, assembling area, docking
area, etc.
In order to bring the model to life, a variety of buildings types, shipbuilding facilities, a wide range of
ships and cranes, as well as lights and other details are required to be produced.
Shipyard Model
In most instances, airport model is used to represent the design in airport architecture competition
It is also used for fundraising efforts and community acceptance.Sometimes, airport model is made
Airport runway, taxiway, control towers, cargo and terminal buildings, airport hotel, passenger
bridges and other accurate details like signage on each plane are made to scale to make the airport
The distribution of hundreds of marking light points is especially important to offer to chase and to
Interior models are manufactured according to different functions such as industrial, commercial,
Once the interior model is coupled with the building project model, the roof is removable to show
how the interior space is designed, decorated as well as the selection of furniture.
It is extensively used in real estate market to attract potential homebuyers or investments in sales
offices.
Interior Model
CHAPTER 4:
C4.1: Introduction
Similar to the function of sketches, the architectural models are three
three-dimensional
dimensional objects which are
served as important tools for the architect to present ideas to colleagues, clients, and the public.
For the purpose to present the buildings’ structure and other features, the materials to make
materials like plastic, foam, and wood or fabricated using purchased sheets of board stock, such as
cardboard.
Material selection is not only about meeting technical requirements, but also requires architects’
The material’s appearance and durability, sensory stimulation and the user’s experience are the key
Architects’ design vision can be well represented by physical architectural models and material
In order to choose appropriate model making materials, the architects need to take into account
certain design criteria to identify the best materials for architectural models according to specific
applications.
For example, materials used to create conceptual models are better to be easy and quick to form
whilst presentation models requires durable, stable and fade resistant materials.
Therefore, sufficient material information should be provided to the architects to assist them to
C4.3: Plastic
C4.3.1: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
Because it’s easy to soluble in acetone which allows model makers to weld parts together.
It can also assemble much larger architectural models than the admittedly large bed of the printer
can accommodate.
C4.3.2: Acrylic
Acrylic sheets are lightweight, flexible plastic and with a better finish.
Acrylic has good transmittance, hardness and easy to machining.In most cases, it can be used to
create windows and façade of the models to make gloss and fluorescent effects.
However, this kind of building model making material is expensive and it has to be cut and engraved
C4.3.3: Polyamide
Polyamide can provide a realistic implementation of the complex detail design for its character of
3D printed plastics.
Architectural models made of polyamide are generally printed with Selective laser sintering (SLS)
printing technology.
It became a popular choice of architectural model making materials because of its shatterproof and
lightweight properties.
PVC Mirror Sheet is mostly used for representing transparent and translucent areas in the
C4.4: Wood
Wood and wood-based products are the most commonly used materials used for architectural model
making.
It is a strong material with dimensional stability. The following are the introduction of some
frequently-used woods.
C4.4.1: Basswood Basswood is one kind of Strip woods with fine grain.
This architecture model material is widely used to make the architectural model of buildings and
Balsa wood is one kind of hardwood with a nice finish and texture. It can be cut, painted and sanded
easily.
Balsa wood is one of the building model making materials to make the structure and the frame of the
buildings.
In addition, the slotted surface of balsa wood people may find it is unappealing sometimes.
Architectural model made of Balsa wood
Considering the total weight of the architectural model and its stability, MDF is more used as model
cushiony surface.
1. It is susceptible to damage
2. Sealing work is required to protect against water stains and other damage
C4.5: Paper
C4.5.1: Cardboard
Cardboard is a common model making material and is used extensively when making the models.
Lots of architectural models used cardboard to show roads, pathways and certain terrains by
It is very easy to use without the need for special equipment during the model production and
installation process.
When making the large-scale architectural models, Kraft board can be chosen as an ideal model
building material as it is always used to form the overall structure rather than details.
In other words, architectural models made by Kraft board are meant to present the relationship
Thus, an architectural model made of this material has a very strong structure.
C4.6: Foam
Foam is extremely useful to make massing and study models.
The commonly used foam is Styrofoam, compressed foam board, and blue foam.
Insulation board usually has a few of colors, gray, pink and brown.
The brown one is rougher and looser thus it is preferred for site models.
Architects use this material to make small-scale buildings for the architectural model of a street or a
town.
Nevertheless, the architectural models made by insulation boards are kind of easy to be damaged,
especially the edges and corners due to the fragility of the material.
Different from foam core board, gator board is easier to build and has a smooth finish.
It is an ideal architecture model material to make the quick, large-scale construction of architectural
models since it has a lightweight, moisture resistance surface and easy to cut with a knife.
Generally, it is used as a substrate for displays where light but sturdy scale model materials are
required.
It can also be chosen as a base plate for wet materials which require a water-resistant backing while
C4.7: Glass
Nowadays, glass is no more only be used only in window modeling.It can also be used to show the
C4.8: Metal
When making architectural models, metals are mostly be chosen to make building façade, frames,
In order to enhance the appearance of metal sheets, the surface of mental needs to be polished in
advance.
Copper sheet, aluminum and steel plates are often found being used when making architectural
models.
Clay used for modeling has a fine texture and easy to smooth.
Also, rolled into thick sheets, clay and plasticine can also be cut to make walls for large-scale
presentation models.
When making the architectural model of buildings, the openings are usually represented by cut-out
recesses.
Other building components can be in made in advance and applied to the walls to model elaborate
facades.
The primary use of Dark Green Coarse Turf Bag is to create low grasses, leaves, and weeds.
What’s more, it can help to add texture and forms a smooth transition from low ground cover to
Landscape model made of Dark Green Coarse Turf Bag (Image from internet)
Generally, Forest Green Bushes Bag is used to making medium to high ground covers like bushes,
It is also ideal to make medium to large trees and architectural model grass.
This model-making material can be used for any scale.
C4.10.3: Flocking
Flocking is a great base model making material commonly been used to represent architectural
doors, windows, skylights, other building parts and components furniture, figures, vehicles, trees,
etc.
These products add life to architectural models and offer the clients a comparative sense of scale.
Scenery Elements like figures, vehicles, trees
C4.12:Conclusion
Modern and contemporary architectural models are diverse in model building materials and in
purpose.
Thanks to the diverse natural color, strength, and workability of numerous materials, the architectural
model became an irreplaceable tool to study and give definition to architectural ideas in three-
dimensions.
CHAPTER 5:
C5.1:Introduction
Scale models are recognized as the necessities to the architectural profession.
Generally, physical architectural model is usually reduced in scale referring to the actual building
size.
Scale Architectural Models in 1:80, City of Dream by Zaha Hadid
When making the scale architectural models, the relative proportions need to be the same as the
It will affect the effect of the architectural models and has an impact on the model cost as well.
The following are some key points which may help to decide the scale of architectural models.
In other words, the overall purpose of choosing a right scale is to make the model look as convincing
as possible.
The clients need to classify which design stage that is to be presented the scale models.
Working architectural models are commonly used for design improvements and modifications.
Presentation model is widely used in the final design stage of a design project.
The location on which architectural models will be presented is another important thing needs to be
Exhibition architectural model should leave enough space for public viewing.
And it also should avoid the sense of emptiness of the exhibition hall.
In some cases, architectural models are required to be moved frequently from place to place.
Budget and project deadline are also need to be taken into consideration when deciding the scale of
architectural models.
Detailed architectural model requires relative longer producing time and higher cost.
The smaller the scale indicator number, the larger the model, and this means more detail can be
illustrated.
The scale of architectural model not only influences the amount of detail that a model can illustrate,
but also the texture of architectural model materials in the completed architectural models.
When selecting the scale of architectural models, the clients and model builders should consider
about whether the scale selected will match the standard scales in modeling industry.
1:1 to 1:10 architectural model is not very common to see in architectural model making industry.
Architectural model making companies only manufacture these big scale models when the clients
These detail models are used as presentation models to show the pretty much the same detail as
Looking back into the history of architectural model development, since the Renaissance, architects
started to build life sized wooden models of buildings sections situated on the project site to
For example, sometimes the real object is really heavy and not easy to transport, therefore a life
Product Model
These models are always used for desktop display of cars and motorcycles, etc.
Product Model, V engine Scale in 1:4
Interior Model
1:5 to 1:10 scale interior model is great for representing a lot of realistic details inside a building.
At this scale, the interior model will be one ten of the actual size.
Room layouts, selections of furniture, miniature people, and other detailed components can be well
represented.
However, only very few interior models are made in these big scale.
1:5 Scale Interior Models
Facade Model
Sometimes, customers may need facade model to show the unique design of the exterior wall or the
entrance of a building.
Facade model is a very authentic representation of several exterior design elements especially the
These architectural models are very good expression of different architectural styles throughout
history.
1:30 Scale Facade Model
Interior Model
Interior model is a perfect tool for real estate developers to attract potential house buyers and
investors.
The 1:10 to 1:25 scale interior model is a good representation of designed interior space.
In most cases, the roof of the building can be removed to show the interior design.
Different from other architectural model, large scale interior model is usually fits in a ‘blank box’ with
Section Part of Model provides an internal view of the architectural model by exposing construction
The structure, foundation and other important features can be clearly viewed.
Section Part of architectural model is usually used to present the structural and spatial qualities of
architectural design.
Layout Model
The 1:50 to 1:100 scale layout model allowing views of room layouts if each individual floors.
Therefore the design and arrangements of the interior space can be made visible.
These architectural models are extensively used by real estate developers to sell the houses.
Building Model
The most widely used scales for building models are1:100, 1:150, 1:200 and 1:300.
The balconies, windows and detailed building facades, etc can be shown at these scales.
1:100 Scale Building Model
1:100 to 1:300 scales are widely used for making building models.
And if specific detailed elements of the building need to be shown, bigger scale will be a better
choice.
Building Model
Comparing to bigger scale building models, a 1:300 to 1:500 scale models give people a better
It also allows people to see the building floors and internal structure.
Building models are very authentic representations displayed in the reception area for housing sales
purpose.
Site Model
Site architectural models are widely used for real estate fairs.
Site models are ideal for giving a perfect overview of the site layout at a recognizable level of detail.
1:500 or 1:1000 scale site model is portable and is widely used for exhibition.
1:1000 Site Model
Site plans
The primary purpose of a site plan model is to represent the essential idea of the design.
Another use of site plan model is to show the relationship between the project’s site and its
surroundings.
Comparing to larger scale models, small scale architectural model is much faster and easier to
make.
Site plan model with scale of 1:2500 to 1:5000 contains massing representing buildings, road
By showing the overall design concept and the relationship of the existing and new construction, site
City planning model is usually made in really small scale to represent the development plan or
history of a city.
Local governments use city models to present the new planning proposals or infrastructure to the
public.
The most widely used scales for city planning model are1:1000 to1:3000.
The amount of detail that can be viewed is limited since buildings of the architectural model are
By installing illumination systems to the city planning model, key sites such as new development
The emphasis of island model is on the relationships of the existing natural environment and the
Island scale models are used for architecture model exhibition in most cases.
C5.6:Conclusion
There are several tradeoffs in choosing the appropriate scale of architectural models.
The amount of details client want to show and the purpose of exhibition are two key affecting factors.
Others like the budget, the deadline, the mobility and the functionality of architectural models are
equally important.
Having a well understanding of model scale will offers a very clear demonstration of the architectural
projects.
CHAPTER 6:
Interactive Architectural Model
Display Techniques
C6.1:Introduction
oduction
Interactive architectural model is an ideal tool to represent architects’ design concept and project
development.
It is also a fresh and interesting model display option in the exhibition like real estate sales center.
element to an architectural model can provide the viewers a more impressive presentation.
The interaction with the architectural models creates a better communication between the audiences
model, a computer and supported software, a variety of control panels or interactive media walls
surrounded.
C6.2:Lighting Control
Illuminating specific areas of the architectural models can add extra visual effects by it.
Only by clicking a button or a touch of a tablet, selected areas on the architectural model can be
The following are 3 typical ways to control the lighting system of architectural models.
Operating by push button control systems, control station like inspire control station and heritage
Lights of architectural models can be activated by certain labeled buttons or the combinations of
Under most circumstance, a control station contains several independent light systems which can
It can be conveniently located in public areas such as Science and Technology Museum.
Also, control station is more durable for public interaction for its simple operational processes and
Surface-mounted or rack-mounted touch screen is the most common used control panel to flash or
In the architectural model market, a wide range of touch screens are produced to adapt to
customers’ requirements.
Control panel comprises a variety of control elements and is supported by Ethernet network like Link
Connect.
The users can easily manage the lighting systems only by taping the screen.
Individual parts of the architectural models can be illuminated separately or simultaneously.
In general, the control panel is linked to the physical model with LEDs.
The architectural model can be pop up, flash, pulsate or rotate when the users pressing the button in
The operation of a control panel is based on wide and varied digital servers such as Unison
What’s more, other functions like rotating the architectural models can also be realized through the
Nowsadays, control panel is used extensively in sales office and exhibition centers to interact with
Taking physical architectural model as the base, using mobile device such as iPAD to control the
Displaying the model via portable devices has a great mobility and flexibility.
And it is more convenient for the users to view the architectural model from various angles.
Model display controlled through an iPad
It helps the architects to demonstrate the design idea in a more engaging and highly attractive way.
Based on movement sensors positioned on the physical model and activated through gestures,
In the current increasing digital world, multiple cable or WIFI based lighting control system, software
and apps (eg: LightSwarm and LinkConnect Portable jack) are designed to optimize the model
display.
Portable model control devices should be easy to use and upgrade to enhance the interaction of
Comparing to traditional architectural model, life and up model can better meet the construction
markets demands.
Mechanically operable model represents the building design in a unique and impressive way.
It can give the architectural model a good level of detail from a range of angles for viewing.
Mechanically operable model is made according to various customer demands and the spatial
A typical lifting system includes a scaled model, a lift installed at the base of the architectural model,
Before the lifting equipment is manufactured, the architectural model maker should consider the
Adding a going up and down effect to the architectural model can bring a more vivid and lifelike
The whole model display process can be accomplished by rising and lowering the model
dynamically.
Model operating staff can control the lifting height via remote control.
The main goal of the parted in the middle model display is to give the architectural model a good
Sliding system works as the core sector in the parted in the middle model display.
Projection and wall screen display is based on the physical architectural model.
It is supported by touch screen integrated machine, lighting control system and multimedia software,
etc.
In order to create a perfect illustration of the architectural model, projector with different accuracy is
Projection and wall screen display integrates multiple elements includes images, animation, project
After installing several cameras in the physical model, information and images of the architectural
model can be appeared on the screen synchronized with the playing multimedia.
software.
Without any public participation, this system is an ideal option for exhibitions with large number of
visitors.
Equipped with telecontrol system, the demonstration system can be easily operated in any corner for
Manual demonstration system allows the visitors to take fully part in the architectural model display
activities.
As the user touch the device like fixed touch screen, the model is lit from above by projectors while
This kind of system is well-suited for the small scale exhibitions or house selling events.
Manual control multimedia model display (Image from internet)
Wall screen and projection are commonly used to play animations or project images to help the
viewers to visualize and understand the design idea or the future development of a project.
And it is also an eye-catching way to tell the story of the presented project.
The use of wall screen and projection allows the users to switch different views or see the project at
Incorporating with physical architectural models, wall screen and projection can assist the
exploring experience.
Using varied interactive technologies to represent an architectural model can enhance the impact of
a design.
Interactive architectural model is also an ideal and sophisticated marketing tool for the real estate
Interactive architectural model display technique develops a new visual language to interpret design
ideas.