TYPES OF MODELS
Several types of models are used to represent architectural models:
Small solid model
Frequently used to show how a building will relate to surrounding buildings. Scales used range from 1/32" = 1'-0" to 1/8"=1'-0". Very little details are shown in this model.
Structural model
This model is usually used to show features of a residence. Structural models are usually 1/2" = 1'-0" or 1"=1'-0". In this model, the most of the roofing is left off to expose the structural aspects.
Presentation model
The purpose of the presentation model is to show the appearance of the finished building as reaslitic as possible. Presentation models are usually 1/4"=1'-0" scale.
MATERIALS
Many architects prefer STYROFOAM because is easy to glue, cut and can be painted with various kinds of paints. However, it is soft and can be broken or scratch easily.
Another popular material is CARDBOARD or ILLUSTRATION BOARD. It is easy to obtain, glues well and may be painted with almost any kind of paint.
Two disadvantages are that sometimes cardboard wraps easily and it needs to be cut with a razor-type blade or knife.
A very popular material for building models of homes is BALSA WOOD. It is available in many different sizes and can be easily cut with a sharp knife. It also finishes well and is stronger than cardboard and styrofoam
Furniture and major fixtures can be carved out of soap or wood and glued into place for added attraction.
Most importantly,
be precise about measurements and scale.
PROCEDURE
1. Plans. Obtain the set of plans of the structure to be built and draw to 1/4" =1'-0" scale (usually).
2. Site. Make a decision concerning the site of the base of the model (have in mind the storage and handling of the structure). If it is a rolling site, it may be represented by building up the high spots with plaster of paris, styrofoam or cardboard.
Use this guides to help you:
Exterior wall thickness = usually 3/16 or 1/4 in.
Interior wall thickness = usually 1/8"
3. Interior. Lay out the length of the walls and openings such as windows and doors in their appropriate styrofoam thickness sheet. Try to be the most precise you can be regarding measurements. The exterior walls may then be glued together and placed on the floor plane.
4. Openings. Apply the trim around windows and doors and insert exterior doors (usually 1/8" thick). For best results in windows, use 1/16" thick plexiglass.
4. Details. Take care of details. If you cut your own strips of siding for the walls, be sure to make them to scale. When possible, choose materials that are to scale already.
5. Paint. The wals may be painted with tempera paint in soft pastels or white. Dark colors don't usually look realistic. Mortar joints should be painted with water base paint and wiped to produce a realistic appearance.
6. Roof. Most satisfactory results are obtained when the roof is assembled on the roof plan. Since the framming is not seen in a presentation model, it is not necessary to cut each rafter and joist.
For the celing:
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Lay out the gables in 1/4" balsa and cut them out
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Cut ridge boards from similar stock and glue in place at the peaks of the gables
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Use straight pins to hold the pieces in place (the roof sheating may be 1/4" balsa glued to the gables and ridge board
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Finish the roof by gluing strips of sand paper or fine gravelto the sheating. Be sure to represent the flashing, This may be aluminum foil or dark colored sandpaper.
7. After the floor area has been painted or covered with an appropiate material, locate the model on the base an glue it.
8. Paint the surroundings and create a landscape.