sketching with models.

May 12, 2022

Acting as a form of three-dimensional sketching, a small-scale study model can help us quickly visualize and manipulate forms and spatial relationships. It can communicate the big moves on a project, something the digital realm will, at times, fail to achieve.


This recent example from a private residence design shows a 1/16-inch scale site model with interchangeable forms arranged in varied positions. The pieces can be rearranged and manipulated during design discussions. This live process of "sketching with models" allowed our design team to quickly make decisions on massing and site placement for the house during the initial client meeting.