The Use of Scale Models in Architecture
Scale models have been used throughout almost the entire history of architecture. Today, scale modelling is used in architecture for different reasons: from the exploration of the form, to the presentation or display of architectural details and correlati
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M. Stavrić et al., Architectural Scale Models in the Digital Age © Springer-Verlag/Wien 2013
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3 THE USE OF SCALE MODELS IN ARCHITECTURE
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3 The use oj scale models in architecture
Scale models have been used throughout almost the entire history of architecture. Today, scale modelling is used in architecture for different reasons: from the exploration of the form, to the presentation or display of architectural details and correlations. Therefore, there are several possible objectives when building scale models: to explore the form, the level of detail and properties of an object, to decide on an appropriate planning strategy, and many others that go beyond the scope of architectural design. An object can be presented by a scale model in different ways and at different stages of its creation. Their purpose changes with the different spatial display tasks: from the display of internal spaces/interiors to city models. This chapter discusses the purpose of scale modelling, types of scale models in architecture and city planning, and their scales in greater length.
3.1
The purpose of scale modelling
The purpose of scale models is to present objects, their context and/or details in the most realistic way possible. How objects are presented with scale models depends on the project development stage. Every architectural design stage can include relevant scale models. Every version of the project can also have its own appropriate variation of scale models. The level of scale model detailing depends on the project stage it illustrates, or the presentation strategy for the designed objects. Logically, while still at the initial schematic design stage, scale models cannot show details that have not yet been defined. It should be kept in mind that when the main project for an object has been completed or when the object itself has already been completed (or is already in use), scale models can show even the smallest details. Hence every scale model follows a specific objective
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ARCHITECTURAL SCALE MODELS IN THE DIGITAL AGE
and has a specific purpose chosen by its designer, mostly to be able to examine different aspects of the project.
3.1.1
Exploration of the form
One of the first early design stages is to study the required functions and find the appropriate object form. Conceptual scale models are used to explore all the shapes that have architectural potential [2],[5]. They do not have to be related to a particular architectural project, but address a particular type of spatial problem or exploration. Conceptual scale models are rarely based on realistic design task frameworks of or specific functional requirements. In addition to conceptual scale models, the exploration of architectural form also requires the use of working scale models. Working scale models are simple and "incomplete" models made of easily processed materials (paper, cardboard, styrofoam, etc.) and without much detailing. Usually, a number of these models are made, one for each planned version. Designers primarily use them to examine
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