Scale model builder creates amazing models according to scale. Sometimes the models are sized up but most of the time they are sized down to miniatures of their true selves.
It takes a lot of patience and also talent to become a good scale model builder. Under the tutelage of Freddie Lim, all staff at ZF Mirage Venture are able to build scale models according to specifications set by the clients.
The members of the staff of ZF Mirage
Venture busy at work
There are several types of architectural scale models that the company specialize in. Most projects were commissioned by housing developers who want to showcase their future projects to their buyers. These projects usually require scale models of the houses to be sold, complete with the rendering made by the scale model builder of the surrounding landscape. Often, the models are cut out to display the interior of a particular building, complete with interior decoration to put things in perspective.
However, sometimes only
"study models" are required. Below is an example of a study
model. In this case, the gradient of the terrain is not significant but you can see the shadowy lines to signify the altitude change. Compare the blank shapes (on the left) to the real buildings (on the right).
Blank "study models"
alongside some part of the real buildings
Scale Model of the Penang Bridge
A scale model of a typical view of the Penang Bridge
When the Penang bridge was completed in 1985, it was the third longest bridge in Asia. It is the pride of Penang state government to be able to pull off this mega project. It spans 8.5 km across the water. A system of complex highway was completed together in this project to facilitate the smooth flow into and out of the bridge onto the mainland and the island itself.
In June 2008, ZF Mirage Venture was assigned a project to build a scale model of the Penang Bridge. The purpose of the project is to have this model as a permanent display at the organization's office.
Prior preparation in order to build the scale model is obtaining overhead satellite pictures from Google to see the orientation of the bridge in relation to both bodies
of land.
It is good to know that the construction of the second bridge that would link Penang island to the mainland is also being planned.
Views of the scale model from different
angles
complete with tiny cars and a ship to make it alive
Study model of the highway system
supporting the Penang Bridge
This scale model project was commissioned by Penang Bridge Berhad, the company who holds the concession of this bridge. The time taken to complete the whole scale models was about five weeks.
In case of the scale model of the Penang Bridge, a scale modeler not only has to build the bridge, he or she has to be able to make the landscape alive with models of tankers, ships, boats and tiny cars. The adjacent highway system that leads into the bridge is also portrayed. However, the details of the blocks of buildings are not necessary. So, they are placed in the form of study models.
Meticulous work is required in making
a ship for the Penang Bridge project |
A scale model builder has a good understanding of form and function. The person also has the ability to break down complex shape into basic shapes that is easy to construct in modular form.
To be a good scale model builder, besides being able to
read the blueprint and translate it into 3-D units, the person has to pay attention to details. It also helps by being observant to really see different types of environment. It is good to bring a camera so that each interesting and related objects can be photographed for referral.
For someone who aspires to become a scale model builder, the college degree that you should take is Architectural Studies or, at the very least, a draughtsman course.
Practice also makes perfect. If you wish to be hired as a scale model builder, it is preferable you have a portfolio of your past work. It would tip the scale in favor for that job.
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