Posted on November 25, 2011
Let me explain first of all that I am writing this from the perspective of someone who has had personal experience of having to make architectural models with limited resources. Although I am now a professional model maker I was once a student at the Welsh School of Architecture where they viewed models as an important part of the design process. Through my three years on the course and subsequent many years in the model making profession I have seen, or made myself, most of the common mistakes people make when setting out to produce an architectural model. Hopefully I can help you avoid these errors and save you a lot of wasted time and effort.
Planning your architectural model
The first and most important step for any architectural model making project is to establish a clear goal for the model. In other words, what is the model for, what is its purpose, what does it need to communicate? Very few people have the budget and resources to make a model that shows everything about their project. It is more realistic to choose an aspect of your design that the model can show well.
For example, if you are designing a building in a sensitive area, a monochrome massing model can show the overall form and layout of your design and how it sits in its context. This will give viewers an instant general understanding of your project. The colours, materials and any other detailed elements can be explained through additional drawings, photographs, swatches, etc.
Another approach is to let your drawings show the general overview of your project and use an architectural model to illustrate one of the detailed aspects. For example you could make a part-model of a particularly interesting area of the building; an entrance feature perhaps or a decorative elevation. Or you could make a sectional model that slices through the building to show the internal spatial organization.
The important thing is to start with a clear purpose for your architectural model and then work out what sort of model will best achieve your goals. Read more...
Posted on October 29, 2011
Though you might be tempted by a trendy new design when starting a home flooring project, it's best to consider the longevity of both the materials and the style before making a final choice. You might be willing to pay more for something that will last longer, or you might be interested in a low-priced style that will tide you over for a few years. Because most people choose flooring based on their budgets, flooring prices have had a significant impact on home design trends. Manufacturers offer more affordable options than ever, in addition to timeless, high-priced styles.
Elegant Trends Demand High-Priced Styles
Without a doubt, hardwood flooring is one of the most popular trends in home design. Homeowners love the stylish, luxurious look of real hardwood floors, especially in areas like the living room, dining room and kitchen. However, hardwood floors sometimes come with a hefty price tag. The materials cost more, and they are harder to install. Many people are willing to pay higher flooring prices for real wood, as it is durable and adds a look of authenticity that other materials cannot match.
If you're thinking about real hardwood floors, it's important to protect your investment with proper maintenance. Wood is especially susceptible to moisture damage, so avoid putting it in an area where spills are likely, such as the kitchen. Additionally, you should plan to install extra insulation or window treatments to prevent moisture and light damage. The higher price tag can be worth the cost if you keep the floors in great shape. Read more...
Posted on October 9, 2011
Today, contemporary kitchen designs are made for ultimate ease and comfort while meeting culinary needs. If redesigning your kitchen is the future for you, first research the type of style that fits your vision. Do you love a country theme with a dash of contemporary? Consider a buttermilk finish for your cabinets and contemporary lighting, finished with stainless steel appliances. Do you want something that's a little less country and leans more on the contemporary side? Stainless steel appliances, a darker cabinet finish, and granite counter tops would be the perfect touch.
Recessed lighting is also a great way to illuminate your kitchen in a contemporary way instead of the standard one light that is typically put in homes. Bamboo hard wood flooring is becoming quite popular as well as a brushed nickel finish on the faucet. If you have a bar area, install drop lighting with a contemporary globe. That will add a little zest to the look.
Granite and marble countertops are quite popular, but there are also other options. Stainless steel is a newer option, but be careful as that type of surface will scratch easily and is hard to clean. Butcher block counter tops are also a good option if you do a lot of cooking.
Travertine flooring is the next wave of contemporary looks for your kitchen. Travertine comes in a variety of different colors from beige to gold. Something to consider about travertine in your kitchen, however, is that it is a natural stone and it will react with anything acidic such as orange juice, lemonade or any time of fruit juice. If those are typically in your kitchen, you might want to consider moving on to something a little sturdier.
Keep in mind as you're envisioning your contemporary kitchen design that you should pick what best suits your needs and your taste. After the process is done, sit back and enjoy your new kitchen!
