Traditionally, before the introduction of CADD 3D software, architects rely on architectural models to explore 3 dimensional spaces of their design. 

Many older generations of architects grew up building dioramas and model airplanes, model boats, model cars with brands like Airfix, Revell, Hasegawa and Tamiya, to name a few, and this somewhat paved their interest and patience into building model of buildings that they have designed as they become architects in their adult years. 

Model making is a trait which currently is fast losing its followers and attractiveness as the younger generation these days have moved on to computer games such as Roblox, Minecraft and Fortnite. They experience 3D spaces thru these computer simulations, rather than model making. 

Younger generation of designers are less interested in model making as it requires a lot of effort, patience, and time, not to mention money as well to build these architectural models. 

Hand drawn sketches is also another trait that is fast becoming extinct at many architectural schools. This is unfortunate as architects take pride in the way we write and sketch. It amazes clients most of the time. 3D drawings printed on papers do not give the same appreciation of spaces as what architectural models do. 

3D drawings lack the tangibility and tactile of what an architectural model offers. 

Visual expression and scale are best demonstrated thru architectural models and not on a piece of paper. Architectural Models help an architect explore the potential of his or her design and explore vast possibility of options in the design and how to improve the work. 

Architectural Models also help the architect and the client to think 3 Dimensionally and definitely aid in fast decision making. We cannot assume that every client understands floor plan drawings or sectional drawings, but with a model, they will have no reason not to understand the design. 

Schools of Architecture should have a strong emphasis for their students to build models as a way to 'sell' their ideas to the critics better. It benefits them more than the critics actually, as model making will teach the student about scale and space much greater than a 2-dimensional drawing.

Ar. Sarizal Yusman Yusoff Felo Pengajar, Fakulti Rekabentuk dan Senibina, Univerisit Putra Malaysia.

Tarikh Input: 01/08/2023 | Kemaskini: 01/08/2023 | uswahhasanah