An architectural model can have several purposes and we will discuss about them in this article.
1. Informative architectural models
They are made to develop a design or work model and are used to develop ideas or solutions. Most of the time, they are made inside a company, not for the public or for customers. For informative and work models, high quality materials are needed to reflect the design specifications. They are useful in understanding the scale, shape and materials used. It is difficult to represent the model in 2D sketches and that is why 3D architectural models are preferred.
2. Conceptual architectural models
They are made in the initial stage of the project in order to have a better image on the desired final shape. Such a model allows the designer to develop initial concepts using basic models and shapes. It is used in the early stages of design and describes an idea or solution in quite simple terms.
Usually, for conceptualization, 2D sketches are used, but more recently the 3D format of architectural models allows a better exploration of the project, form and proposals. Basic materials are commonly used to make conceptual models with a quite simple approach. They are easy and fast to make and can be easily modified as the project evolves.
3. Presentation architectural models
They are the most popular, detailed and used models. They are generally used to present design ideas to clients or the public at real estate fairs or other events with a sale or development proposal.
These architectural models include the context of the site and its surroundings, surrounding elements and many detailed representations. The customer can opt for the lighting of the model – interior and / or exterior lighting.
Light helps to create an impressive effect and is often used to highlight certain segments of the model. Lighting will not be absent from the models of night construction projects – such as restaurants, theaters, bars, clubs, etc.
Presentation models have several purposes:
a) Communication with the customer
They are used to help customers and investors get a better idea of the design. Often, architectural models are an important means of communication between the architect and the customer.
b) For sales and marketing / attracting potential customers or investors
Very often, architectural models are used in real estate fairs to attract customers and investors because they allow them to imagine the final project as accurately as possible.
c) Public information
These models are usually requested by institutions or authorities and are used to inform the public about the final project (for urban planning).
Also, these 3D models can be real maps that allow visitors to move more easily inside a building or a larger location with historic buildings. For example, a museum and a chain of historic buildings can use architectural models and display them for the public.
d) Planning
For large real estate developers, architectural models are used to gain the approval for the planning and the trust of the public. The models will allow the public to better understand what the project is about, because 3D representations are much more attractive and descriptive than 2D sketches (which require reading plans and dimensions).
Regardless of the type of model you need, we would be happy to know your project and bring it to life in a faithful, detailed, captivating architectural model with a huge potential for information, communication and marketing.
