Design with Models

For each project, I begin with conceptual sketches. Once a design is selected, I create a scaled physical model to help clients visualize the project in three dimensions. While 3D renderings can offer beautiful images from specific angles, working with tangible materials allows for the exploration of numerous possibilities as elements are manipulated. This hands-on approach provides a deeper understanding of structural connections, moving beyond precise placements to experience how materials should cohesively join together.

This methodology fosters the development of practical and creative joints, bringing spatial structures to life and encouraging discussions and refinements that lead to the optimal design. My goal is to shape cozy, inviting spaces—not merely rooms filled with furniture, but homes with heart.

A pertinent illustration of this approach is a project in Huntington Beach, California. The client was dissatisfied with the existing contemporary aesthetic of their residence and sought a transformation to embody the timeless elegance characteristic of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture—a style distinguished by its stucco exteriors, red-tiled roofs, and arched entryways. To actualize this vision, I employed an iterative design process, developing over seven distinct elevation models. This exploration was instrumental in conceptualizing a design that seamlessly integrated a Spanish-style tower with an inner courtyard, thereby replacing the previous monotonous façade.

Utilizing multiple 1/8th-scale cardboard models served as a tangible medium for presenting these proposals, enabling the client to engage with the spatial configurations in a more immersive manner. This hands-on approach not only facilitated a deeper comprehension of the proposed modifications but also fostered a collaborative dialogue between the client and me. The resultant design harmoniously melds traditional Spanish architectural elements with the client's unique preferences, culminating in a residence that epitomizes both historical reverence and contemporary comfort. In essence, the deliberate incorporation of physical models within the design process transcends mere visualization; it embodies a commitment to crafting spaces thoughtfully tailored to the client's aspirations while honoring the rich architectural heritage of the locale.. Read more …