Book Description

The only comprehensive guide to basic and advanced design process modeling tools, materials, and techniques For nearly a century, three-dimensional models have been considered an indispensable tool of the architectural design process. Models provide designers with an extremely effective medium for exploring ideas, testing theories, and discovering innovative solutions. Unfortunately, most guides to architectural modeling focus primarily on how to produce finished presentation models. Consequently, students are forced to learn the basics of design modeling from their peers, instructors, or frustrating trial and error. Designing with Models, the first complete, step-by-step guide to basic and advanced design process modeling, significantly reduces the learning curve. Architect Criss Mills acquaints you with essential design modeling terms, equipment, materials, and construction methods. Then, with the help of more than 700 high-quality photographs and four in-depth case studies, he walks you through the basics of determining scale; generating new ideas; exploring design alternatives; modifying, editing, and integrating new forms into models; and adding details and other final-stage refinements. Mills also provides detailed guidance on how to model using advanced tools and materials. You learn how to model with wood, found objects, metal rods and screens, clay, plexiglass, and other materials. You also learn how to work safely and effectively with power tools such as belt sanders, table saws, drills, and band saws, as well as how to transfer model dimensions to 2D plan, section, and elevation drawings. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Designing With Models Designing With Models
From the standpoint of representation, and despite the advent of computer graphics and animation, the architectural model has persisted in being a privileged way of expressing architectural intentions. The irresistible iconic relation between the model and the building, and the intimacy witnessed through this association, has unquestionably contributed to this survival. Because in the model no extra interpretive energy is needed to grasp the intended, and because there is definitely a pleasure in seeing something big represented by something similar to it but smaller, the critical denigration of model-making has been minimum. This is unlike the case of the plan and other classical modes of projecting buildings where the conventional nature of representation has opened the gates for questioning their legitimacy. From the angle of making and performing, model-making has also remained a very powerful means of exploring ideas that have 3-d space as their support. The relative absence of a cognitive distance between intentions and their crystallization in the sensible realm, due essentially to the paramount role the hand directly plays in the shaping of a given design idea, has reinforced an interest in model-making as a means for expressing the immediate and the spontaneous. A closer relation the other visual arts has followed, and the architectural model has become a competent candidate not only for expressing design ideas but also emotions and feelings. The author, who is both an architect and an artist, seems to be implicitly alluding to these stands in one fashion or the other.

Now this Studio guide to making and using architectural design models begins with an introduction to the equipment, materials and model types. In detail, Chapter Two tackles basic techniques for assembling model components. Cutting, attaching, fitting, templating and finishing routines are provided with clear instructions and illustrations. Chapter Three, I think, remains the heart of the guide. Here the author explores a framework for conceiving and using models. As a pedagogic section, this chapter is full of tutoring guidelines and is a meticulously comprehensive investigation. Much of what is suggested in relation to scale, ideas, manipulation and development of models remains focussed. Mill's analysis here illustrates the paramount role models can play not only in representing defined architectural ideas but also as the prime generators of information without the aid of drawings or exact scales. The dialectical relation between sketch models and concept drawings is investigated nonetheless. But it is the stress on the idea that architectural thinking could be deeply investigated through model-making, with all possible alternatives, that is interesting. "Often, " Mill writes, " new directions emerge that do not follow the original intention. Instead of ignoring these and steering the design along preconceived paths, it can be profitable to let go of earlier ideas and follow the implications suggested by the model. This may involve following the design through a strong shift in direction or even returning to an earlier generation in preference to latter versions. " Other observations like these follow. In Chapter Four, the author applies a step-by-step case study of concepts and techniques in relation to the design of five cases: a residence, a multifamily house, a sculptural foundry, an office building and an urban park. These projects trace the evolution of design from early conceptual stages to finishing models. Many assembly techniques and strategies presented in Chapters Two and Three are shown to convey possible applications in the context of evolving designs. Chapter Five (Creating Curvilinear Forms and Special techniques), presents a range of techniques for making sculptural shapes. "Because sculptural elements are more often needed as components of a model, many of the examples present ideas for creating individual shapes. These can be expanded to entire models if desired." In Chapter Six, examples of model usage from the architecture practice are provided. The author reminds us that in practice, "modeling offers one of the strongest ways of understanding the impact of design decisions on the built work and is of particular value in working with complex geometries." The suggested projects offer examples of models from several types of practices. Many of the strategies discussed in Chapter Three and Four can be seen at work, as well as the connection between built work and the model history that helped form them. Finally, Chapter Seven provides useful advice related to alternative media, related models, transferring model dimensions, photography and detailed presentation models.

As a conclusion, Designing With Models contributes to the (modest) body of literature on model-making in a significant way. It is, to my knowledge, the first complete step-by-step guide to fundamental and well-developed modeling. One could not fault the visual clarity and graphic organization of the work. The black and white photographs do not stand isolated but are balanced by the supplemented comments. The text includes sufficient information for a thorough understanding of the proposed model-making techniques. Although some of it is concise, the text is for the most part well written, and to the point. The lack of a bibliographical section, however, is somehow disappointing, but then the book does not pretend to be a theoretical treatise or a scholarly work.

Design With Models: A Studio Guide to Making and Using Arch
Gives helpful methods of design methods intergrated with the model creation process. Things such as representation of materiality and techniques in the process of model creation are described. Very nice tool for those looking to branch their technique past 3D/2D computer and hand drawing design. ... Read more

Book Description

Make your next presentation a winner--it's easy with this four step guide! Your presentations become more persuasive when you rely on this uniquely thorough guide to building highly professional models. Knoll's Architectural Models covers every step of this make-or-break process. FIRST you'll gain insight into the many types of models, including building, site, landscape, garden, and special models. SECOND, coverage of materials and tools then helps you determine which media are best suited to convey your specific idea. THIRD, you discover effective new ways of setting yp your work area and preparing the work, with the aid of an extended checklist. FOURTH, you're taken step by step through the fabrication of the components--from base plates through building up sites to soldered structures. And, along the way, hundreds of photos and drawing highlight techniques and offer innovative model ideas. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

I am glad I found this book
Even though this is meant for graduate level and professionals, I ordered this book for our jr. high-aged homeschooled children, who are very interested in architecture and building models of their plans. I am happy with the way this book presents things simply and clearly, but does not restrict itself to only foam core board constructions. It introduces other ideas and techniques for models that my kids are excited to try. This book fulfills my wish to find a resource that will be of use to them for years and years...no matter how far they go into the field of architecture and model building.

Good insight
A good insight into the diffreent types of materials available for the construction of several types of architectural models. I particularly liked the way in which the book is divided and the several practical hints wihch the author gives to the beginner -- a good book. ... Read more

Book Description

A primer for everyone interested in building models. Model Making is an introduction to the craft for students of architecture; landscape architecture; urban, interior, and theatrical design; or anyone who has the need or desire to make the large small. In concise instructions and nearly 200 charming, easy-to-follow drawings the book details the construction of both study and presentation models in common materials such as paper, chipboard, illustration board, foamcore, and balsa. It also covers topics such as choosing the right materials for the job, rendering contoured sites, and fashioning entourage. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A good guide for my course
A have open an elective course as "Model Making"in EMU at the Faculty of Architecture.This book helps me very much while I was preparing my program and guides me about the course content and outline.I can say that it is a perfect book for both architecture and interior architecture or for any design field.

senih.cavusoglu@emu.edu.tr

A
Though the book is probably a good introductory manual for basic modelmaking techniques, its exclusive use of line drawings for all illustrations, "charming" as they may be, I found to be insufficient. For any attempt at modelmaking, it is important to have a good understanding of the look and feel of the materials that one is dealing with, and I feel that the book would have benefited greatly from the insertion of photographs, so that the process of making is also more tangible to the reader. I would not recommend this book to those who wish to take on modelmaking on a more serious level beyond the hobby. I particularily did not enjoy Sutherland's schematic guides for copying existing buildings in her examples. They ignore the complexity of the process that precedes these finalized works. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Excellent 'Handbook' for design modeling...
This text does prove and excellent 'handbook' covering a wide variety of modeling techniques. While Trudeau does not tend to go into great detail, its treatment of each subject is practical and clearly presented. Though the examples may not provide new insight "for Architects" using traditional modeling materials (i.e. chipboard or foam core) it is certainly a valuable resource for product designers or other design professionals working in more involved mediums where such supporting texts are few and far between.

Overall an good resource, especially for students interested in accelerating their model making experience.

an architect's opinion
I chose this book to help with a new model, and because the book's title claims it is "for Architects." The actual information for architects is meager and sophomoric. The book appears to focus more on sculptural models for product designers. Despite its title, this book had nothing to offer me.

A "must have" for any modelmaker.
I am a professional modelmaker. Initially I was glad to find anything written about the craft as a profession. After reading through it more than a couple of times, I beleive it to be a well written book. It is very informative, with its "hands on" way of explaining a topic. It is also filled with great photos. I highly reccommend this book to students or anyone interested in the design or engineering fields. ... Read more

Book Description

A critical step in the design of a DSP system is to identify for each of its components (DSP kernels) an implementation architecture that provides the desired degree of flexibility/programmability and optimises the area--delay--power parameters. The book covers the entire solution space comprising both hardware multiplier-based and multiplex-less architectures that offer varying degrees of programmability. For each of the implementation styles, several algorithmic and architectural transformations are proposed so as to optimally implement weighted-sum based DSP kernels over the area--display--power space.

VLSI Synthesis of DSP Kernels presents the following:
+Six different target implementation styles --
+Programmable DSP-based implementation;
+ Programmable processors with no dedicated hardware multiplier;
+ Implementation using hardware multiplier(s) and adder(s);
+ Distributed Arithmetic (DA)-based implementation;
+Residue Number System (RNS)-based implementation; and
+Multiplier-less implementation (using adders and shifters) for fixed coefficient DSP kernels.
+For each of the implementation styles, description and analysis of several algorithmic and architectural transformations aimed at one or more of reduced area, higher performance and low power;
+Automated and semi-automated techniques for applying each of these transformations; and
+ Classification of the transformations based on the properties that they exploit and their encapsulation in a design framework. A methodology that uses the framework to systematically explore the application of these transformations depending on the characteristics of the algorithm and the target implementation style.

VLSI Synthesis of DSP Kernels is essential reading for designers of both hardware- and software-based DSP systems, developers of IP modules for DSP applications, EDA tools developers, researchers and managers interested in getting a comprehensive overview of current trends and future challenges in optimal implementations of DSP kernels. It will also be suitable for graduate students specialising in the area of VLSI Digital Signal Processing. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Good book for DSP kernal implementation
This book summarizes the major implementation styles of DSP kernels of weighted-sum computations. The authors try to explore the design space of various area-time tradeoffs. Low-power issues & techniques are also discussed in detail. It gives a good review for DSP engineers. ... Read more

Book Description

Scale models are invaluable to the architect when checking designs and establishing forms, but they also enhance the communication between the architect and those involved in the planning and construction stages. A three-dimensional model speaks a language which can be instantly understood and enables spatial relations to be perceived at a single glance. This book presents more than 200 scale models of notable 20th century houses by architects including Aalto, Asplund, Frank, Gray, Le Corbusier, Loos, Melnikov, Mies, Plecnik, Schindler, Wagner, Wright. The models show the arrangement of rooms, the light conditions and will help the reader to develop and train his ability to visualize spatial concepts. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Help Has Arrived
If you have ever had a hard time visualizing the way a floor plan would look in real life this book would be benificial. It is a well rounded collection of house models done by famous architects. This book will also help anyone who is trying to design a model house of their own. ... Read more

Book Description

Whether you intend to add flair to your office presentation or charm to your model train set, this book will give you professional insight into designing and producing architectural models--with truly spectacular results.This book is a primer for the design, construction, and presentation of the three-dimensional model from conceptual drawings. Ideal for use inside or outside the classroom, the process begins with the construction of a cube and tetrahedron, and moves on to encompass manufactured modules, a commercial building, a single-story house, and a city rowhouse. Landscaping and presentation details are also provided to make your creations look their absolute best. Beautiful photography illustrates the step-by-step instructions for the beginning projects, as well as a colorful gallery of more complex designs that will excite and inspire you. These projects are a wonderful combination of the precision of model-building and the limitlessness of your creativity. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Makes a nice coffee coaster!
Dont waste your money, even a grade school art teacher would be disappointed. The publisher should have never allowed the title to include the term architects.

Great Book!!
Great book, perfect for beginners. Wonderful pictures. Would highly reccomend to anyone interested in getting into this hobby.

Building Architectural Models
The title for this book is very misleading! This is truly an amatures guide. This is something that your Grandmother might put together, for Arts and Crafts. The skill level for these examples is really novice and is clearly shown by the decent photography. If you have never built a simple formcore model, this book is for you. I am an experenced model builder and purchased this book to find something new in it that might help me. NO such luck. ... Read more

Book Description

Great Buildings Model Kit, by Steve Chapman. Each of these four models is an exact replica of the original building, perfectly scaled and in scale to each one of the other buildings in the kit. They are already precut (no scissors!) and come with clear and simple instructions so that architecture enthusiasts of all ages can put them together.

Great Buildings of the World, by Julian Bicknell. With 30 photographs and illustrations of the actual buildings and their architects and owners, and a lively history by a world-renowned architect, this instant introduction to architecture tells you all you need to know about the models you have built. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Arcitecture book
This is a very elaborate book about arcitecture and how it relates to todays society. The models are great! ... Read more

Book Description

The central purpose of the "Growing Greener" program is to incorporate parks and conservation lands into the design of residential developments using a new generation of municipal open space plans, zoning standards, and subdivision requirements. By all accounts, Growing Greener is proving to be a superb vehicle for change, but more and better resources are needed to facilitate the distribution of the program to local officials, county planning agencies, landowners, and planning professionals.

This interactive CD-ROM meets that need by providing an enhanced, visually interactive version of the model zoning and subdivision ordinances that appear in an appendix to the book Growing Greener (Island Press, 1999). Included are more than 50 commentary images and short video clips that illustrate the model ordinances and help explain and clarify the available options. Also included are text files that users can copy and, working with local land-use attorneys, adapt to fit local conditions in their communities. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

After 22 years, still an amazing book
Unable to find a suitably interesting dollhouse for his daughter, the editor of Architectural Design magazine launched a worldwide design contest. The results are depicted in this book, which still fascinates me after 22 years. Each completed entry is shown in a black and white or color photograph, along with the original sketches and plans, and architect's statement of intent. It's absorbing on several levels - the creativity put into the design, the modeling techniques, and the dollhouses themselves - what would they be like to play with? How much did children enjoy them? The winning entry was one I have never forgotten since purchasing the book in the 80s: a golden tower which children could actually enter and climb up the stairs. While the drawings are not meant to provide building instructions for hobbyists, they might inspire at-home construction efforts. The designs themselves surprisingly don't look dated, even though 22 years have passed. It's too bad that such a competition hasn't been held since, though. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

... a magical visit with a different perspective ...
In the late '50s I had the unusual chance to personally ask FLW what school might be best to learn City Planning. Not knowing then that his inimitable, signature response would be "you can't learn that in a School, you have to learn by doing."

Later, I also had the pleasure of knowing Paul Bonfilio, and can attest that his own product here is a labor of love that reflects an intuitive, heartfelt resonance.

BTW, if you have the opportunity to personally visit Fallingwater, try to exactly time it to that week in May when the surrounding wooded Moutain Laurel canopy is in their full and profuse bloom for an added breathtakingly magical experience. ... Read more

Book Description

Architectural Supermodels is a highly illustrated guide exploring new ways of expressing design concepts. A short history of the use of models is followed by discussions on photographic techniques, model making philosophies and the use of computer-aided modeling. Case studies include Will Alsop's award winning c/PLEX project, taking the reader from conceptual models to the complete design. A fascinating read for all architects and designers.





In the face of the digital revolution in architectural design, modelmaking can be seen as a labourious and time-consuming preoccupation. Indeed, many architectural students in the United States avoid representing their ideas in three dimensions by describing the activity as 'busy work'. However, despite its hitherto rather humdrum image, modelmaking has made a recent and massive comeback in the world of environmental design.

The ability to visualise directly in three dimensions is essential for interior design employers, as are the abilities to draw freehand and technical drawing, although literacy in computer graphics, remains one of the top five skills required by the modern architectural practice.

The fact that a three dimensional model can now be electronically modified, refined, and digitally transformed or even be computer-programmed in to its physical existence brings a new and exciting dimension to the skills of the architect. 'Architectural Supermodels' is written in the spirit of this mood of change and in the notion of exploring new ways of expressing design concepts. Case studies covered include Zaha Hadid's modelmaker; Future Systems' modelmaker, Terry Farrell and Partner's modelmaker and Armiger who works for Will Alsop, Rick Mather and David Chipperfield.

This innovative book will cover computer-generated modelmaking as well as the more traditional modelmaking involved in Architecture/Building Design. It is a technical manual focusing on three-dimensional models and electronic models. This is a vital book for degree and graduate architectural students as well as practising architects/designers.

*Explore new ways of expressing design concepts
*Discusses photographic techniques, model making philosophies and the use of computer aided modeling
*Case studies take the reader from conceptual models through to the complete design ... Read more

Book Description

This book offers an explanation of why scale models are important to the design process. Albert Smith takes the reader through the history and significance of models in architecture from the magic of the Egyptian scale model to the present day.


Through this description of the relationship between architecture and the scale model, Smith demonstrates the most effective process between concept and 'machine', between the idea and the final building. The great value of this book is to reveal the nature of the scale model and to unlock the tremendous potential of this design tool as a thinking and communicative advice.

His chronological analysis goes on from Egypt through Rome to the relationship between the Greek paradigm scale model and then on to Medieval and Renaissance models. It concludes with the models of the Spanish architect Antonio Gaudi, the Russian Constructivists, the American architect Louis Khan and finally looks at the role of scale models in the present day through the work of the Polish/American architect Daniel Libeskind and the American Frank Gehry.

* First book to address the question of why and how architects use scale models for projects allowing designers to learn the most effective ways of communicating their ideas through the model medium
* A unique insight into the dynamic thought process of designers through history to the present day to inspire today's practitioners ... Read more