Assignment 3

Assignment 3

Sketch Model

Due Nov. 20

Make a model of your studio design at a scale of 1/2 inch equals 1 foot. This is a “sketch model” – like a rough model that will be used as a design tool, not a finished, detailed model.

As a sketch model it can be – in fact it should be – somewhat sloppy and crude in its execution. Elements that should be included are:

• Overall size and shape
• Roof slope and overhangs
• Foundation and floor height
• Window and door openings
• Any important design features

Scale:

Another way of saying 1/2" = 1’ is 1:24. If you haven’t worked at scale before it might be confusing. If your building is 10’ x 12’ in plan, this would translate to 5” x 6” at model scale. At this scale 3/16” thick material is 4-1/2 inches which is about right for wall thicknesses (roofs and floors might be more like 3/8”).

Material:

Any materials may be used. Common model-building materials are cardboard, foam-core, balsa wood and basswood. Plasticine can be used for irregular or free-form elements. Hot glue or “tacky glue” are helpful, as are pins or T-pins for temporary holding. Some kind of a square is useful for making right angle cuts.

EXAMPLES:

Example of a study model – note how the overhangs and skylights have been re-cut and glued as part of the design process. If the model is too anal it becomes precious, and I wouldn’t have felt comfortable hacking into it and re-gluing it together – that’s why it is good to keep it rough, not finished. (materials: 3/16” and 1/2" thick foam-core)

Another study model, this one made from 3/16” foam-core and basswood.