A physical model in architecture is a three-dimensional representation of a building or structure, typically constructed at a reduced scale. Physical models are often used in the design and development of buildings, and they can be an important tool for understanding and analyzing the form, layout, and spatial qualities of a design.
Physical models can be created using a variety of materials, including wood, plastic, metal, or foam, and they can be constructed using a variety of techniques, such as carving, cutting, casting, or 3D printing. Physical models can be used to represent a variety of architectural elements, including the overall form of a building, the layout of its spaces, and the materials and finishes used in its construction.
Physical models are often used as a means of visualizing and communicating design ideas, and they can be used to explore the spatial, functional, and aesthetic aspects of a design. They can also be used to test and refine design concepts, and to evaluate the performance of a design in terms of its form, layout, and spatial qualities.
Slatina square
the furniture detailed view
The proposal for the urban design of this square proposes an ingenious and experimental system for temporarily removing street furniture when necessary. The tables and chairs are hidden under the pavement by means of a hydraulic system.
market eight
the physical model
The top view of the model of the building shows the meandering silhouette of the shopping centre. The zig-zag shape creates courtyards open to the landscape.
market eight
the physical model
The building’s five interconnected volumes are adapted to the shape of the plot, which is surrounded by a river. This configuration can be seen in the model, which also shows the courtyards and the faƧade.
connecting riads
the physical model
The physical model of the project shows the majestic massing of the residential complex, the permeability of the faƧade and the generosity of the urban courtyards.
ramp up the 'mun
the physical model
The model of the building shows the relationship of the new flats to the old structure. The central square becomes a multifunctional public space for art.
Burke house
the physical model
The top view of the architectural model reveals the relationship between the different buildings comprising the project: the existing house, the extension, the landscape design and the spa pavilion.
house of arts
the site model
The building completes an urban block in an area bordering the historic centre and a busy ring road.
elemental complex
the concept model
The concept of the residential complex follows a hexagonal pattern that branches out to occupy the plot, freeing up a generous proportion of public space.
Shoreditch hotel
the site physical model
In comparison with the urban fabric surrounding the hotel, the form of the building stands out for its dynamism and fluidity. The effect of the faƧade can be seen in the surrounding model, where the building completes the block and offers a new urban facade to the square.
house of arts
the physical model
The model of the building, which is made out of methacrylate, shows the concept of the architectural work: the House of Arts is made up of different capsules between round-shaped planes.
Slatina square
the physical model detailed view
The urban design of Slatina Square features a series of circular elements that function as water features, gardens, kiosks or street furniture. The result is a fun and informal design that allows for multiple uses of public space.
wrap manifesto
the physical model
The building is situated close to a steep slope, so the new extension also serves as a pedestrian bridge connecting the upper street with the main avenue. This secondary public access is linked to the access to the multi-purpose hall.
maragato lofts
the physical model
The physical model accurately represents the building in its context, where the perforated facade, illuminated, completes the corner of the plot and sets up a dialogue with the surrounding urban fabric.
Slatina square
the physical model
The urban design of this square in front of the promenade is like a pattern of circles of different sizes. The skylights, lampposts, gardens and fountains are linked together like a constellation. The wood and aluminium model also shows the entrances to the underground car park beneath the square.
Slatina square
the birdview
The bird’s eye view of the square shows the street lighting system, consisting of flexible illuminated poles that move in the wind to create a dynamic effect. The spatial organisation of the square is based on circular shapes.
hospital in the forest
the physical model
The top view of the physical model shows the relation between the building and its context. The urban park is linked to the main plaza and the urban design provides access for vehicles and pedestrians from the south side of the plot.
house of arts
the facade detail
The faƧade of this public building is made of coloured glass louvres. The floor slabs on each floor are free-form and form balconies and overhangs.
Atienza music hall
the architectural model
This three-dimensional representation, made of wood and copper, allows us to observe the project as a whole, and to understand how the accesses and levels are resolved in the steep terrain where the church is located.
Burke house
the physical model
The cardboard model represents the extension of the house and the new jacuzzi pavilion in relation to the structure of the existing house.
Xu Beihong foundation
the physical model
The methacrylate model allows the interior of the building to be observed as if it were an X-ray. This transparent, laser-cut three-dimensional piece shows the stairs and the inner courtyard of the building.
spliced towers
the physical model
The project model shows the relationship of the buildings to the landscape. The office towers have a free orientation while the residential blocks seek southern light and are oriented on a north-south axis.
market eight
the conceptual physical model
This conceptual physical model made of translucent layers of acrylic shows the relationship of the building with the courtyards, the vertical circulation and the interlacing bridges between blocks.