Model Scale, Part 4 – Selection of Scale for Architectural Model

In some cases architects request a specific scale in which they want the model to be built. In many cases architects are setting a target size for the future model and ask  model maker to come up with suitable scale.

The main objective is to select a scale that will match or will be very close to one of  standard scales in modeling industry. Why? Because of scenery elements that are pre-manufactured and available to buy off shelf and to add to the model. Use of scenery produced by railroad models manufacturer is preferred – this industry provides a greatest assortment of such elements, which are usually of high quality, available and affordable.

Scenery elements include first of all people figurines, cars and vegetation. Adding scenery to the model is not only a way to make it fancier and life-like looking. It provides instant comparison reference for understanding a size of the subject.

Below is a table showing some of the most usable architectural model scales along with transcription to standard US inch/foot scales and recommended scales for accessories/scenery elements.

Below is a chart that may assist in selecting an appropriate scale range for the future architectural model, based on model content and purpose.  After selecting an appropriate scale you might refer to the chart published in article “Model Scale, Part 3 -Architectural Scales” to see which standard scales are appropriate for use of scenery elements. Of course, described here only the most common types of models, as I would not be able to cover all possible combinations in one chart .

Model’s Content	General Purpose	Recommended scales
Single, up to 1-2 story, small to medium size building, no landscape development	Museum, exhibit	1:24, 1:32 , 1:50
Single, up to 1-2 story, small to medium size building, limited landscape development	Museum, exhibit, architectural presentation	1:32, 1:50 , 1:48
Single, up to 5-7 story, medium size building, limited landscape development	Museum, exhibit, architectural presentation	1:75, 1:100
Single, multi story building, tower/skyscraper type, limited landscape development	Museum, exhibit, architectural presentation	1:100, 1:120, 1: 150,   1:160, 1:200
Single, school/hospital type building, expanded landscape development	Architectural presentation	1:150, 1:160, 1:200, 1:220,   1:240
Multi building complex consists of small to medium size buildings, expanded landscape development (residential block type)	Architectural presentation	1:220, 1:240
Multi building complex consists of medium to large size buildings, expanded landscape development (commercial, industrial type)	Museum, exhibit, visitor center, architectural presentation	1:300
Medium size resort complex, expanded landscape development	Visitor center, architectural presentation	1:240, 1:300
Large size resort complex, greatly expanded landscape development	Visitor center, architectural presentation	1:480, 1:500
Urban model, several building blocks, doors, windows and other details still be required, expanded landscape development	Urban development support	1:480, 1:500
Urban model greater than a preview one, buildings are fabricated as blocks, no doors, windows required, mono or duotone painting scheme	Urban development support	1:1000, 1:1200, 1:2000, 1:2400 depending on area’s size