With today’s sophisticated modeling software, physical model making is a rarity. Digital modeling is faster and easier to manipulate, so why bother spending hours making physical models? Here are a few reasons why we think architects should continue with traditional model making.
1. Flexibility
The beauty of physical models is that it can be as conceptual or detailed as you like. From quick large-scale site blocking to modeling every last detail to your heart’s content. No one will stop you! Unlike digital models, physical models can serve you in every stage of the design process! Flip it, turn it, pick and pull, and reattach! The possibilities to conceive an architectural concept is endless.
2. Documentation
The process of physical model making requires you to document at every milestone in the design journey unless you want to forfeit hours of work over a small mistake! This makes great material for your portfolio allowing others to experience the process with you. Also like hand sketching, building models allow you to better understand your design decisions and visualize what your design will look like.
3. Sense of Scale
Whether viewing or building a digital model on a 4k resolution monitor, you are still viewing it 2D on a computer screen. Physical models give you a true sense of scale. Imagine building a 1:20 section model! You could really stick your head in the model and get a better feel of your design endeavors.
4. Tangibility
Physical models are just as helpful for your clients, peers, and professors as it is for you. They provide more meaningful opportunities for your audience to understand and engage with your design. I’m not sure about you but everyone has a random urge to touch things so having a physical model is a definite bonus in a meeting.
5. Last, but not least it’s fun!
Do you remember your childhood filled with legos, logs, or makeshift forts filled with imagination? With physical model making, architects get a sense of nostalgia and joy through the design process. Screens dominate today’s architecture practices and everyday life so it’s nice to go back to the basics. Besides, working with your hands is a lot of fun and a great break from detrimental blue light! Reduce the strain from your eyes and incorporate traditional model making in your arsenal.
Do you still make physical models? Are you thinking of getting back into them?
We hope so! You know, there’s just something really special in physical model making that you can’t get from digital modeling. The ongoing thought-process and act of making models not only allow for a more enriched design experience but produces more impactful designs. Although increasing technology can dramatically change how architects design, traditional model making will always have a role in an architect’s life.
We hope you enjoyed why we think physical models are still useful in the digital realm. Make sure to check out ArchiHacks’ Youtube and Instagram for tips and tricks for young architects. Give us a follow for more content!
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