Three 1:20 scale industrial transformer models completed for export

We actually completed these models last month, a week ahead of schedule and they are now about to head off abroad, two to China and one to Brazil. They are part of an order for four identical 1:20 scale models, the first of which was completed and delivered before Christmas. If you click on the images to enlarge them, you’ll be able to see the high level of detail we can achieve at this large scale (the models are over a metre long). We made a similar model for the client over a year ago and it generated such a positive response from their overseas colleagues that they’ve come back to us for more.

6 display models for HSBC branch refurb in Canada

Our latest confirmed order is for 6 models for display in a newly refurbished HSBC main branch in Canada. Commissioned as part of an ongoing worldwide branch refurbishment programme, we’ve created scores of these models over the past two years and sent them to HSBC branches in cities all over the globe. Designed to fit into standardized glass cabinets, the purpose of the models is to draw attention to newly created information panels featuring case studies of companies the bank has supported. So far we’ve created seven different model types, with more designs pending. All the models began as concept visuals which we then developed from prototypes through to final approved designs, before going into batch production. The main picture above shows four of the models in one of HSBC’s central London branches. The smaller images show close-up views of three of the model types.

 Small scale, white styled massing model – Scale 1:750

This project was actually completed in November last year but we refrained from featuring it in these pages until it had gone in front of the planners for an important presentation. The purpose of the model was to illustrate the comparative massing of the proposed new build apartments and to show how the proposal enhanced the existing cricket ground by creating a sense of enclosure around it. The thing that is hard to appreciate with this small scale model is just how small the buildings are – the apartment buildings are actually no more than 25mm tall! If you click on the images to enlarge them you’ll see how much detail we have managed to show in what is essentially a simplified massing model.

Illuminated model of contemporary house – Scale 1:100. Detailed full colour model

When we quoted for this project we offered the client the option of adding lights within and around the building because we felt that illumination would really help bring this model to life. The client was happy to go for it and, as you can see from the pictures, it does give the model an extra dimension which helps sell the scheme as a vibrant, contemporary design. In particular, the internal illumination highlighting the 4 car “garage/car gallery” with glass doors was an important feature. At 1:100 scale, we were able to show plenty of detail and the model was only 450mm wide, making it easily transportable. 1:100 is an ideal scale for a model of an individual building such as this.

 Two models for R&D wind tunnel testing – scale 1:150

Over the years we’ve created many models specifically for use in wind tunnel tests to measure various performance criteria of proposed new designs. These two models, both at 1:150 scale, have a 1.8m diameter and are designed to fit on a circular rotating bed within the wind tunnel chamber. They were recently delivered to the R&D department at a local university where various tests will be conducted. The project with the clear acrylic building in the middle will be used to measure natural ventilation performance and will have pressure taps fixed at key points within the building envelope. The darker model is for a different development and will be used to measure pedestrian discomfort levels at varying wind conditions. This is done by filming the disruption patterns of fine white powders around the buildings under different wind speeds and directions. The model is dark so that the powder shows up against the background. The enlarged image shows the upper part of the buildings removed.