Reading Room

What Is An Architectural Model

An architectural model is crafted to manifest a realistic three dimensional (3D) interpretation of plans such as construction projects, mechanical prototypes, real estate and industrial developments, city and urban planning schemes and other designs of concepts relating to economic activity.

The objective of an architectural model is to display in miniature form the appearance of such projects before actual construction begins in order to convince, and thus secure, buyer and investor participation.

Architectural models are made in various scales ranging from 1:1 for industrial prototype models, 1:50 for individual houses to smaller scales of 1:1000 and 1:5000 for large developments. Architectural models are usually mounted on display tables with plexiglas protective cover and may have accessories and features built in to add to the realism of the model such as lighting.

Rationale For Architectural Models

Architectural models are of paramount importance to both engineers and architects as they provide an insight into detail that may not be easily discernable in a drawing or a blueprint. Models are frequently displayed when introducing a scheme of new construction to the public as a means of garnering sufficient interest in its subsequent implementation.

Model making is also a form of art work that enhances the aesthetic and functional aspects of a planned development and is instrumental in helping discover shortfalls and deficiencies that permits initiating remedial measures and plan adjustments and modifications.

History And Architectural Models

Model making is steeped in history, from the Egyptians to the Mayas and across the continents and even today, architectural and artistic models continue to assume a prominent place in the field of presentation, despite the advent of computer based screen displays of tri-dimensional 3D simulations that lack the realistic impression that a physical architectural model leaves with the viewer.

An Architectural Model Is A Marketing Tool

It is important to note that selling a project, whether a house, development complex, hotel, golf course, hospital, airport terminal, railway station or port or any other construction project, requires the convincing effect that a scaled architectural model adds to the visual interpretation of such projects.  Not architect's rendering or computer simulation will produce the level of representation that a physical miniature model can deliver to the viewer.

Modeltronix

Modeltronix specializes in building miniature architectural models using state of the art techniques and computerized CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machinery. Our architectural and artistic models are brought to life by the artistic use of color, lighting and water. Computer based precision laser manufacture ensures our models are realistic, reflecting complete identity with the architect's vision.

Our experience in producing architectural models extends to several years, with a long list of successful and repeat customers.

During the process of manufacture of a model, we continue to work closely with customers and architects to make adjustments to the model on an as needed basis.