474 Interiors Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. typically creates a presentation model in the Design Development phase. Depending on the stage of the design process, client needs, and perceived advantages, a model may be worth the additional time to enhance client understand- ing. Many firms hire professional model-makers to assist with this type of visual communication. The construction of any model begins with deciding its purpose and audience. For example, design projects that receive public funding often require use of presen- tation models to gain public approval. Project funding by investors also uses presentation models. Models are also helpful as a means of study for students of design. Interior designers build models to ■ conceptualize and explore ideas and look for flaws ■ study elements and principles of design— specifically proportion, volume, and light ■ analyze spatial relationships—between spaces and within one space ■ examine a design from different angles and perspectives ■ communicate a design that is difficult to understand There are two general types of models: hand or computer generated. Both assist the client in visualizing the proposed spaces. A designer can visually or verbally do a walk-through during a client presentation. You may find you have more skill with manual than computer- generated images or vice versa. Again, experiment. Handheld Models There are a number of different types of handheld models. See the following. Depending on the type of firm or client, you may use one type more than another. See Figure 13-45 for some of the following types of models. ■ Concept model. A concept model, or study model, represents a concept or idea for the client’s space or project. It is a three-dimensional equivalent of a concept sketch. To develop a concept model, a designer can use almost any material to communicate the design. The more refined concept models present simplified or abstracted versions of finishes, materials, and colors but in accurate scale. Concept Model, Waterfall Chair Concept Model, Foam Core Fountain Concept Model, Chair Design Construction Model Figure 13-45 Interior designers use models of many different types to enhance client understanding. As a designer in progress, building models can also help you analyze spatial relationships and conceptualize ideas. (Continued) Maddie Roberts, Freshman Design Student, Colorado State University/ Damon Searles Photography Maddie Roberts, Freshman Design Student, Colorado State University/Damon Searles Photography Lydia Brown, Senior Design Student, Colorado State University iurii/Shutterstock.com Franck Boston/Shutterstock.com Lisa Taylor, Senior Design Student, Colorado State University Lisa Taylor, Senior Design Student, Colorado State University