Models & Illustrations

A foam core or cardboard model is a great way to visualize a building project.  Whether for a new home or addition, the three dimensional nature of a model can help resolve concerns about massing and scale.  Models are especially helpful in depicting complicated roofs.

For some projects, a computer generated interior "walk-through" or exterior "fly-by" is even better.  Solar shading videos are an accurate way to size and position windows, and exterior cladding and colors can be changed with the click of a button.  And while programs are increasingly sophisticated and user friendly, many hours are needed to generate more than a cartoon-like illustration.  If needed, I can contract with a professional CAD operator to produce a special presentation piece from my sketches.

Quick, free hand sketches continue to be my favorite way to communicate ideas.  These elevation sketches were presented to a client during the preliminary phase of designing a detached garage.  Three bays were needed, but with a vintage carriage house/farm shed look.  A cupola would be a nice touch.  By changing the massing, rooflines and cladding, I was able to show them three different looks.

Sometimes, I use color to emphasize the component parts of a design, as shown in the kitchen floor plan.  The two story prairie house is a jazzed up version of a standard front elevation, prepared for zoning committee approval.