Start with the audience
Models for a design board, a client review and a sales center each have a different job. Knowing who will see it helps us choose the right amount of detail and keep the project focused.
Mass models for early decisions
A mass model shows the size and placement of buildings in context. It can make the height of neighboring structures and the overall site plan easier to discuss in a design review. A simple study model can also help a client understand drawings while the design is still changing. For TreanorHL’s Buena Vista school proposal, simple blocks that could be moved during the interview kept attention on placement and layout.
Detailed models for presentations
When a model helps people understand or buy a development, the details matter. Buildings, landscape, amenities and color can help visitors picture how the finished place will feel and how its parts relate.
Semi-detailed models
Some projects need more than basic building masses without requiring every finish. We can identify where detail has the most value and simplify other areas, then spell out those choices before the build begins.
Size and travel
Think about where the model will live and whether it must travel to meetings or trade shows. Those answers help determine its footprint, sections and carrying or shipping case.
See more examples in our project gallery.