In the field of architectural design, model making is a very important means of expression. Different scale models help designers, clients, and even the public to better understand the details and effects of architectural designs. The scale of the architectural model determines the level of detail and precision that can be shown. In this article, we will introduce the different details presented by models at various scales and how to choose the right scale based on project needs.

1:1000 Scale Models — Regional Planning and Large-Scale Building Display

The 1:1000 scale model is suitable for broader regional planning or large-scale architectural displays. This scale is typically used to represent multiple buildings within a large area, urban planning, or landscape design, making it ideal for showing overall city planning, traffic layout, and the relationship between buildings and other facilities. At this scale, the building details are kept simple, but the model clearly conveys the layout, scale, and how the building fits into its environment.

1:500 Scale Models — Regional Planning and Spatial Relationships

The 1:500 scale is commonly used for urban planning, large-scale architectural projects, or residential communities. At this scale, the model can display a larger grouping of buildings or an entire urban area, showing the spatial relationship between buildings, road layouts, and green spaces. Designers often use this scale to demonstrate how the buildings integrate with the surrounding environment and urban structure.

1:200 Scale Models — Overall Layout and Building-Environment Interaction

1:200 scale models are often used for macro-level architectural design presentations, ideal for showing the external contours of a building, its overall layout, and its relationship to the surrounding environment. This scale helps illustrate the landscape around the building, traffic flow, and open spaces. While it may not show intricate building structures, it effectively conveys the interaction between the building and its surroundings, making it well-suited for large-scale projects like urban planning, commercial complexes, or public buildings.

1:100 Scale Models — Doors, Windows, and Façade Details

In Architectural Models, the 1:100 scale is one of the most common scales, suitable for models that need to showcase the building's exterior appearance, façade, and door/window structures. At this scale, the model provides more detailed representation, allowing the architectural style, window design, balcony railings, and other elements to be clearly shown. Designers typically use this scale to display the overall appearance of the building, along with finer structural and decorative details on the exterior.

1:50 Scale Models — Ground Finishes and Façade Details

1:50 scale models are used for higher precision displays, showing finer building elements such as the texture and variations in ground finishes, façade detailing, or interior zoning. This scale is typically used to present the building's functional layout and material textures, allowing for a closer look at how the building integrates with its environment. At this scale, even subtle changes in ground finishes, such as the arrangement of bricks, variations in the pavement, and garden designs, can be accurately depicted.

1:30 Scale Models — Accessories, Figures, and Landscape Elements

1:30 scale models are typically used when precise representation of building interiors, exterior accessories, figures, and landscape elements is required. This scale allows for clear depiction of figures' facial features, clothing, and the shape of tree leaves or other small landscape details. Through this scale, designers can make the model more lifelike and detailed, especially when showcasing interior design, landscape design, public spaces, and architectural details, conveying a richer visual message.

How to Choose the Right Scale?

When it comes to creating architectural models, selecting the appropriate scale is crucial. Different scales serve different purposes and detail requirements:

If you need to showcase interior layouts, choosing a 1:20 or 1:30 scale is more suitable.

For displaying building exteriors and finer details, 1:100 or 1:50 scales might be the most appropriate.

For representing the relationship between the building and its surrounding environment or spatial layout, 1:200 or 1:500 scale models offer a more intuitive view.

For large-scale planning or regional displays, the 1:1000 scale helps present a broader perspective.

In conclusion, the scale of a model is closely tied to the architectural design’s expressive needs. When creating architectural models, selecting the right scale ensures that the details are accurately presented while helping the audience to fully understand the charm of the architectural design from various perspectives.