Architectural models are not easy to make, but the end result is worth all the effort. In addition to the main elements (buildings in particular), other elements must be thought of to faithfully reproduce the surrounding environment.
For example, in the case of some real estate models, it is necessary to simulate how the place around the houses or blocks will look: with green spaces, playgrounds, commercial spaces and others. All of these are made of quality and easy-to-model materials, which we will talk about next.
- Plexiglass
Plexiglass is also known as acrylic glass. It is a transparent and resistant plastic material, used in various fields due to the fact that it is versatile. In architecture, plexiglass is one of the main materials used to make architectural models. Because it is transparent and easy to process, this material is the preferred choice of architects and designers to create complex and detailed models.
Plexiglas provides a clear and realistic view of architectural projects, allowing details to be observed precisely. Being easy to cut, shape and glue, this material allows models to be built, perfectly reflecting the architect’s vision. It is also resistant to impact and retains its transparency over time, ensuring the longevity of the models created.
By using plexiglass in architectural models, professionals can easily communicate ideas, giving clients and the public a detailed look at future projects. Plexiglass not only enhances the aesthetic appearance of models, but also highlights the technical skills and creativity of architects, bringing projects to life in a spectacular and compelling way. Plexiglass is also used to protect models.
- MDF
MDF comes from the abbreviation for Medium Density Fiberboard. This is a material obtained from compressed wood fibers and glue, having a medium density. Given that it is a quality material with a smooth surface, MDF is even used for making architectural models. Why is this material preferred? Because it is versatile and can be modeled easily and precisely to create complex details in models.
MDF is especially used in models of buildings and complex structures, where fine details are needed to reproduce the architectural design as faithfully as possible. Another advantage is the smooth surface of MDF which allows easy application of paints, laminates and other finishes. Moreover, MDF is a durable material, maintaining its shape and texture over time, which ensures the durability of the models created.
- Cardboard
Cardboard, also known as binding board, is a very popular material in making architectural models due to its versatility and ease of modeling. This material consists of a special cardboard, made of several layers of recycled paper, with an almost spongy surface, soft and pleasant to the touch. Cardboard is often used to render terrain and landforms in architectural models.
By precisely cutting and shaping cardboard, architects and designers can create complex topographies, accurately representing the natural relief of a land. Cardboard can also be painted and textured to render the realistic appearance of vegetation and other elements shown in the model.
Cardboard is flexible, easy to handle and allows the creation of fine details and a high level of realism in models. As a lightweight and affordable material, cardboard is a popular choice among architecture professionals and students to express their creativity and bring their projects to life in an engaging and compelling way.
- Artificial grass and trees
Last but not least, we will also talk about artificial grass and trees which decorate and complement the models. They are essential elements in the creation of realistic architectural models. Artificial grass is made from durable synthetic materials. It perfectly mimics the look and feel of natural grass, but with the advantage of weather resistance and low maintenance.
As you probably already know, there is also artificial grass used in real life, in yards or gardens. It can be cut and shaped to render parks, gardens and green spaces in detail in architectural models. By using artificial grass, architects can highlight landscape planning and create faithful representations of the surrounding environment.
Artificial trees can be made from several materials: plastic, fiberglass, etc. and offer an impressive level of realism in architectural models. They can be modeled to represent various species of trees that will be or are already planted in the area represented by the model. From parks to boulevards and residential areas, artificial trees are used to bring nature into the miniature world of models.
That said, using these artificial elements in architectural models allows architects and designers to create highly detailed representations of their projects, helping them present their ideas in a compelling and realistic way.
Thus, the materials are not only functional, but also aesthetic, adding an additional level of depth and authenticity to the models and, implicitly, to the architectural concepts they represent.
