Architectural models
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An architectural model is a model of a building or external space, constructed at a small scale.
Rough, exploratory models can be made quickly using cardboard, wooden blocks, polystyrene, and so on. For a presentable finished model, most architects would employ a specialist model builder.
[edit] Types of model
Some types of model include -
- External models of buildings, which usually include some landscaping or civic spaces around the building.
- Internal models, such as halls and interior designs, showing finishes and colour schemes.
- Landscaping design models, which may include buildings, pergolas, etc.
- Large-scale landscape models, such as those used at tourist echibitioins to explain the shape of the local scenery.
- Town planning models, typically built at a much smaller scale, where each building is represented by a shaped block.
- Engineering and construction models, showing how building components fit together.
[edit] The purpose of models
Architectural models are used by architects for a range of purposes -
Quick, ad hoc models are sometimes made to study the interaction of volumes, or to get an idea of how they look from different angles. Designing a building using rough models can be a very open-ended and practical method of exploring ideas.
Models are an efficient method for exhibiting and selling a design. Many people, including developers and would-be house buyers, cannot visualise a design in three dimensions (3-D) when presented with flat drawings. An architect may employ small-scale physical models, or digital computer models, to help explain the ideas.
A model may be useful in explaining a complicated or unusual design to the building team; or as a focus for discussion between the design teams such as architects, engineers and town planners.
Models are also used as showpieces, for instance as a feature in the reception of a prestigious building, or as part of an exhibition.
[edit] Virtual modelling
Over the last few decades, detailed construction has been increasingly designed in CAD (Computer Aided Design) systems. The technology is improving rapidly. Early virtual modelling involved the fixing of arbitrary lines and points in virtual space, mainly to produce technical drawings. Modern packages include advanaced features such as databases of components, automated engineering calculations, visual fly-throughs, dynamic reflections, and accurate textures and colours.
However, while virtual tours are undoubtedly useful, they are still limited to images on a computer screen, and lack the sensory impact, or qualia, of a physical model.
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