30 Minute Study Model - Here's How

The digital tools of architecture practice are always changing, but most architects will tell you that analog tools - sketching and model making - are an unchanged part of their design process. I find making things by hand - the craft of it - forces me to slow down, to think and to explore. It’s often a failed experiment that pushes the work in a new, unexpected direction.
In this video, watch as I turn a conceptual sketch into a working study model which I'll use as a presentation and design tool for an upcoming client meeting.
**See all the tools + materials I use here:
thirtybyforty.com/blog/buildi...
#architecturemodelmaking #architecture #architecturelovers
▬▬▬▬▬ Resources ▬▬▬▬▬
➕ Digital drawing templates: thirtybyforty.com/digital-dra...
➕ Specification + Schedule templates: thirtybyforty.com/spec
➕ Architect's Toolkit: thirtybyforty.com/toolkit
➕ Architect + Entrepreneur Course: thirtybyforty.com/a-e-course
➕ Notion template (free): thirtybyforty.com/notion
▬▬▬▬▬ Timestamps ▬▬▬▬▬
00:00 Intro
00:58 The Concept Sketch
01:50 Model Base
02:44 Modeling Materials
03:42 My First Year Cutting Accident
06:45 Cutting Mat Trick
08:12 Modeling Trick
10:45 Spatial Blocks
13:00 Modeling Glass
13:35 Modeling Doors
15:22 “Sketch” Decks
16:48 Framing Hack
18:06 Model Trees + Vegetation
20:06 Modeling a Water Feature
21:03 Final Assembly
23:09 Finished Architectural Study Model
23:55 Tools + materials for this build on thirtybyforty.com
▬▬▬▬▬ GEAR I USE ▬▬▬▬▬
thirtybyforty.com/kit

[@30by40]

Links to all the materials, tools + details here: thirtybyforty.com/blog/building-a-30-minute-study-model

[@darksky1628]

Only thing I wish you had was trace sketchbooks that had 1cm grids (compared to the 0.25in) :/ . They look really nice and was planning to get one/more but since we use metric in au, the sizing of the grids would make it really hard to use and scale with :

[@30by40]

@@darksky1628 You can assign 1 grid to any scale you choose, right? 1 grid = 1m, 1 grid = 10m...I used to use the Muji ones with a 5mm dot grid like that...cheers!

[@colinmontoute571]

Hi Eric- Old school model buuilder hack is to put your index finger on the back of the olfa blade itself.. it is scary at first as your brain wants pull back, but the edge is not sharp enough to cut. You have more control of the blade. The cuts will take fewer passes and be more precise.

[@jetnavigator]

@@colinmontoute571 That design has all the ambience of a confused saw-tooth factory roof.

[@Bedna333]

Hi, the link (amazon) about vegetation doesn't work...

[@AndrewPueker2961995]

I'm a 27yo professor in a dental technician school in Italy, and there's nothing that connects it to architecture: but man, seeing your videos on the channel, makes me "regret" of not having studied architecture 😂

[@tranlehonglien]

Isn’t 27 still plenty of time to start architecture school? 😅

[@AndrewPueker2961995]

@@tranlehonglien yeah but… I think I don’t have the basics to start the university 😅

[@jimmyjamjar10101]

@@AndrewPueker2961995 if you can push a crayon around on a piece of paper, you can go to architecture school...

[@pechsengcheang226]

you made a right choice :D

[@kiamartin3704]

There’s a girl whose 27 in my first year and she also doesn’t know the basics there’s always a way if you have a passion

[@achillemeyvis7890]

Happy to see a nice full length video again, I know you are quite busy so this video is extremely appreciated! As always pure quality! : )

[@30by40]

Appreciate the support, thanks for watching!

[@architectio]

I feel like 30x40 is our KZbin teacher for architecture that we actually like to listen to. You’re very inspiring as a channel and architect. Thanks for the efforts!

[@waahidayaan9635]

My faculty be like : where the hell is your north sign on the model ???

[@urgatorb8]

The X-acto number 2 knife/blade was/is the best for me. Nothing like it comes close. I got my architectural degree from University of Florida in 1990 but only spent 6 months in the profession due to unfortunate circumstances. It's a regret I carry with me to this day. I love architecture and when I was studying in school, I was know as the best model maker in my class. I would become obsessed with realizing every detail of my designs through my 3-D models. Dang, I miss those days!

[@ubuntu94]

I've been struggling with feelings of hopelessness in my arch degree but your videos always inspire me, cheers mate.

[@30by40]

You know the saying, "When you're going through hell, keep going," Right? Glad to help inspire...

[@senik64]

aren't we all fr

[@profHankin]

Great video, again. I tell my students that the goal isn't to check the boxes (which digital tools can push us towards). We need to slow down, trust the process, and see where the idea takes us.

[@30by40]

Well said, Bob...couldn't agree more.

[@whatiswe]

Fantastic! The selection and use of materials for the model informs the client an idea what the final build can be. I work with scenic designers in the theatre. Their model show exactly what the set is will look like.

[@IhabFahmy]

The modelling is Inspired. And inspiring. Your video making and editing are also excellent quality. I even loved the brush cleanup shot at the end. Thank you Eric. I truly appreciate the precision that goes into making these models evoke the sensation of the actual site and structures, and I appreciate your sharing your insights.

[@benjaelee]

Im not even an architect but the video quality and the art style of model making you do is so informative!

[@gabriellehurtubise7948]

I'm actually a Production Design student with a concentration in Set Design and Art Direction. But a lot of the planning stages are similar to architecture. I have a love for it and these videos are so helpful in motivating me to keep working on what I truly love to do -- designing space.

[@bignatius]

Love this channel. I have binged it all in the last few months. Thanks so much for sharing your insights and process. Cheers.

[@MGArtDZN]

As a product and comunication designer, I agree with you that there is nothing better than using real materials and working manually on this things, rather than digitally. Obviously we need to learn how to make it digital too, but being able to create physically first, is something that helps a lot to visualize your product better than any drawing or 3D model. Great video, I really enjoy watching this things being made. It surprises me how I never thought of becoming an architech since I always loved this things, hahaha!

[@alexmorrison2360]

Years ago these videos inspired me to think about going into architecture. While I ended up in engineering instead, this channel still inspired be when it comes to design in general, so thank you!

[@justinhovis3803]

As usual it had me engaged but also calm as usual. Love your work since COVID lockdown. You’ve gotten me drawing and designing again. Stay safe

[@30by40]

Appreciate the support, Justin!

[@blackdogbite]

Great stuff. Perfect approach. Clear, concise, articulate, expressive and practical.

[@dgalaxy1648]

Thank you for your great tips! I think you inspire so many people!!! Please keep going as long as you have so much passion for architecture in you!

[@Lobohusker]

Big fan of the Hot Glue gun. With practice, the craft is not compromised. And it's about what you are talking about, super quick, helps with iterative process.

[@nahshongraumann6815]

Looking forward to your next video posting. Your work approach is inspired and inspiring!

[@magstheonlyone]

So glad to see a model video. After years of hard work, sketches, and 3 models, we will finally begin construction of our dream house soon. Thanks to you and your videos for a lot of inspiration for our project. Greetings

[@30by40]

Exciting, good luck with it!

[@mega.m.m148]

Man i love your work, ihave not finish the video, and i was doing some work on pc but the moment i saw the notification i jumped here, i feel the support now, coz im doing my youtube also about mindset, However i know you are reading this So pls keep the work up I love ittttttt mannnnnn 🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@30by40]

Cheers, mate...thanks!

[@bottegaarchitecture7826]

Eric Man! I can say, I never had a model making class this good. I think we all could have benefitted from some of your tips and tricks during studio. For me it was a bit of fumbling, learning from your fumbling classmate, and shielding your ego from the critics. This video brings me back to those days, in a good way.

[@MiriamReal9]

This is beautiful, thank you for showing us how you work. It’s really inspiring.

[@30by40]

Appythe kind words, thank you!

[@AllanMiniatureWorld]

Very informative video and creative work too, thanks for sharing!

[@christophermoody1448]

The model is really cool. It's smart to work with a mix of different materials, but at a small scale like 3/32". Once again, another great video! Thanks for sharing.

[@30by40]

Cheers, Chris...thanks!

[@maryemamr1710]

Wow, even your sketch model is much more cleaner than my final one. I appreciate all the tips you gave, they will definitely help improve my models.

[@30by40]

Cheers, glad it was helpful! More modeling tips here: thirtybyforty.com/blog/model-build-outpost-project

[@MatthewEncina]

Thanks for sharing this. I love watching practical methods for mockups and ideation.

[@30by40]

Cheers, Matthew...🙏🏻

[@sergiu87arh]

Had a similar experience with the metal ruler in college as well, only I managed to cut across 3 of my fingers and nails... Not sure what it says about us, but I was more concerned about all the blood ruining my model instead of going to ER. I was fortunate I waited one more cut before replacing the blade... It was quite dull at that point, but still did a lot of damage. Model was fine and got a great grade on it.

[@30by40]

Ouch...glad you (and the model) made it through!

[@sergiu87arh]

@@30by40 Just noticed it, but as you can see in my profile picture, the little fellas are good. 😆

[@ilungawandelewe5782]

Great video. Thanks for sharing Eric

[@TriscuitsForDays]

Currently in my grad program and this is a tremendous help, since my program is a 3 year where I’m coming in with no prior experience. Also recently sliced myself exactly the same way you described it with an exacto blade 😂

[@jyupsunthonpimol1661]

I LOVE THE WAY YOU PRESENTING THANK YOU SO MUCH

[@iankirwan8156]

Thoroughly enjoyed that, thank you for sharing your knowledge

[@normanmerrill1241]

Great presentation…informative..practical…visually captivating…thanks

[@joshiasbaja3934]

I appreciate your work! Thank you!

[@habitat_architecture]

This has fully inspired me to model my next project, thanks Eric, amazing video as always!!

[@30by40]

Excellent...good luck with it!

[@kiboshkooks]

Love the hands on approach great mind mate

[@echodelta2426]

Excellent work. Great tutorial. Thank you

[@cain_co]

The timing on this video, I just sat down to start my 2nd semester study model and this video pops up! This will help me so much, thanks a lot, appreciate it 🙏.

[@30by40]

Cheers...good luck, archi-school is an amazing experience!

[@philipchan9297]

So happy to see someone else is using the OLFA knife! It's been my favorite since the college days and I still have the big and small ones with me and using them daily. Not a huge fan for the exacto knife for the same reason you mentioned. Also the metal ruler with cork back was my fav tool because I didn't want to ruin my plastic triangle many people used for cutting.

[@30by40]

So true...we all know the hazard of drawing with a triangle used for cutting, you get that little bump-wave in your line...argggghhh!

[@RSArchDesigns]

Nice seeing video like this😍. Another way to show architectural ideas & concepts. Great also for presentation to our clients👏 Salute!

[@philjacksonphoto]

This was super inspiring, thanks for taking the time :)

[@leonperez9747]

Very beautiful, amazing work 😃

[@senik64]

as an architecture student myself i can't believe someone actually ENJOYS model making and is good at it. mesmerizing to watch, could never be me unfortunately

[@jewelator]

A person enjoys looking at the work of another person. Although I am a jeweler, I enjoy watching such videos.

[@thomasschafer7268]

Das ist der Unterschied zur älteren Generation. Striche ziehen kann jeder. Das architektenfiasko sieht man dann später auf der Baustelle

[@jewelator]

@@thomasschafer7268 Dem kann man nur schwer widersprechen.)

[@AtelierArts]

I've always loved doing miniature works! They really help me out when I'm in my Achitecture independent study💙💛👍🏾

[@30by40]

Miniature has a strange appeal, doesn't it?

[@Somewhere-In-AZ]

Love the thought process.

[@30by40]

Thanks!

[@ruche23000]

Im one of those in students who is very broke and no guidance to produce quality project plates. Always in awe with my classmates who can draw and craft very well. Internet and digital designs provided an equal level playing field. Thank god

[@primodanel6122]

I'm glad to see and watch your videos again

[@30by40]

Cheers, thanks!

[@timosteen]

Thanks for this in depth video! So many great ideas to try out. I use hot glue often in film industry modelmaking, and have found that turning a can of keyboard air duster (Dust Off brand, etc.) upside down sprays liquid instead of air (not recommended in the instructions lol), and it cools and sets hot glue joints rapidly, allowing me to work faster.

[@30by40]

Nice tip...thanks for sharing!

[@NinaThoren]

I have been meaning to get some model making material but I haven't gotten around to it. As someone who is not an architect/architecture student I really like playing around with different materials when it comes to products and spaces so maybe I should let this video motivate me to finally buy the material

[@qiangtao777]

The video is very interesting and thoughtful, thank you for sharing!

[@binusha]

Eric love this model amazing and thanks for sharing the process 🙏🏽

[@30by40]

Cheers, mate...thanks for your continued support!

[@kokopoy11]

Well presented, architect! 100%

[@DuncanBuilds]

very cool. thanks for all the detail. been wanting to try my hand at model making. this gives me a great jumping off point.

[@30by40]

Nice...good luck, keep those fingers tucked in!

[@ModernMountainLiving]

Not exclusively but I use a SHED Roof so often it is part of my LOGO. Always great content Eric. Thanks

[@mai4912]

대학시절 생각이 많이나네요. 밤새도록 만들고, 교수님께 평가받고 그랬는데... 요즘은 컴퓨터로 대부분하다보니 아쉬운점도 있어요. 훌륭한 영상 감사합니다.👍👍

[@timrasputkov5357]

I found the channel I didnt know Ive been looking for.

[@RossHotchkiss]

We're working with a client who has changed the roofline and fascia proportions of their build three times now (we're not through framing yet). We've even lowered an already assembled roof frame 12". These changes are running into the tens of thousands of dollars, all despite detailed plans and 3D models. I can't help but wonder if these people could have gained a better sense of proportion and overall aesthetic by doing a model like this. Really love the layers and understated proportions of this design, btw.

[@30by40]

Hi, Ross...I feel for you, my friend! It's difficult for the construction team on the job site too as it dulls both the morale and momentum. Quite often we build a 4' section 1:1 mock-ups of an exterior wall assembly (usually at a window) to show eave, fascia, materials, trim, etc. Have you tried this? Wishing you all the best with it! -eric

[@garyoverman4393]

Btw…. Great work and little hacks. I like your leaving an edge on the base of structures. I plan to keep that one in mind now. I do mostly furniture and artists studio equipment , so building models to 1:6 or 1:12 allows me to use the Pichen ultra realistic scale people. They are fully articulated 30+ points and skinned with soft silicone. They also have less realistic version android style . They really help with adjustable and modular design work. Thanks for the inspiration

[@brettsutherland8390]

Beautiful!

[@akinlikesfilms960]

your table set up 🙌🏾

[@30by40]

Cheers, mate...

[@ok.sinesm]

great video for information, you have such a way with people

[@30by40]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3-xcqGJeNeleKs

[@jitenrakhatri]

very nicely expressed ideas. so informative and inspiring video

[@pengwang6300]

Nice model cutting, nicer sketching

[@pratikkc1063]

Your videos make me proud of joining architecture ❤️ Love from Nepal🇳🇵

[@WillN2Go1]

Good video. Good point about the gripping. I'll wrap anything with either rubber bands or stretchy silicone tape to make it grip easier. About the blades. What you say about X Acto #11s good points. I sharpen blades to get more use. The thin X Acto blades I've found when I sharpen them (Those small diamond sticks, red, blue....) the blades lose their edge shape and then tend to wander. Utility blades (anything like your snap off knife or bigger) keep their edge shape. I don't like the snap off blades because they always wobble. Learning how to sharpen has been a really useful skill. 300/1000 diamond 'stone', those little diamond sticks and Scary Sharp (sand paper on float glass), and a ceramic stick in the kitchen (keep cleaning it and replace it every year or so. Wrap some of that stretchy silicone tape over one end of 1/2" pvc pipe, magnets or tape it to the top of your microwave - sheath for the ceramic stick. It'll never roll off the counter and shatter.) I use scary sharp on chisels, plane blades, kitchen knives. When you plane soft western red cedar and then give the blade a tune up after an hour and notice a difference? You're dialed in. I used to think edges were as sharp as they were ever going to be when I took them out of the packaging. Now the first thing I usually do is sharpen them. re: hot glue. I've found the Surebonder H-195F has the narrowest bead and best control of any hot glue gun. Uses mini sticks. (I've got minis all the way up to a $200 industrial one that I always get burned using) I think most model and prop makers use super glue and accelerator. I've made a lot of modeling parts ripping down those spruce 2x3s from Home Depot (Now a lot of them are fir which is still good, but not for small model making.) I use a table saw $800 (25 years ago) with a $600 Incra fence... so not something you'd buy for architecture school. (If they have a table saw how good is the blade? If it's not well taken care of, buy whatevers the smallest Diablo blade that will fit on it's shaft. Even 7.25" Just change the blade out when you use it.) You can dial in really precise thicknesses. And the spruce is soft enough you can easily hand sand 1/8" off any small piece. Once you, or find someone, starts making bits and bobs from $2.50 2x3s your options are wide open.

[@gunhee3492]

Might be my favorite video on this channel. Physical model building is so underrated now since we can make computer-generated models.

[@jeffrice4347]

I agree Gun Hee, digital is awesome for to zoom in and out on the computer but I like the look of a physical model no matter the stage.

[@30by40]

Cheers, appreciate the support! And, I couldn't agree more...

[@lululuar]

getting real close to the 1M , congrats!! finally was able to order a "blank" notebook, its pretty good!! I will refill! ,,, saludos!!

[@30by40]

Cheers...thanks for supporting my work!

[@sohilaamr9296]

I am so lazy for awhile,so I think this video will push me to start 💪🔥

[@eliastyberghien9282]

same

[@EmanuelSouzasd]

Great video, i think that's the best way to get a quick 3D look at your project. Digital modeling may require more definition in a project which resumes in more time spent on modeling, and less on thinking architecture. Models aren't for show, they're tools.

[@30by40]

Well said, I agree!

[@fredperry523]

Beautiful - reminiscent of a traditional Japanese house with zen garden.

[@khalidhasan5938]

I said it before, and I'll say it again: PHYSICAL MODEL-MAKING WILL NEVER DIE!

[@30by40]

Couldn't agree more!

[@beriu3512]

I love this, gives me a lot of inspiration

[@30by40]

\m/

[@teashala]

Amazing work dude... very helpful.

[@30by40]

Glad it helped!

[@garyoverman4393]

Back in the 70s my cousin was in architecture school ( he eventually graduated with 3 degrees and is well known in Nashvegas . No internet , EBay, or Amazon…. So I helped him collect wooden window blinds , metal findings, etc. all the fun stuff used to build models. Such a rich environment to experiment with. I can model in 3D but a tangible model is special. Minor point…. Hot melt glue doesn’t dry … it “sets” or cools, but there is no waiting for evaporation 😂.

[@winterdaemonchan]

Hi, I've been a fan of your work for quite some time, also in the field in Kingston, Jamaica. I don't know if you've ever considered teaching, I mean, in a way your KZbin series is a form of that. But the way you put your thoughts together and convey the concepts within your design processes are informative an educational. Many could benefit from some one on one time with you in a class format. Thank you for such wonderful content.

[@30by40]

Cheers...appreciate the kind words + support! I've found teaching on KZbin allows me to reach the greatest number of people with the lowest friction. It provides the freedom to be close to my family + friends, design my own schedule and work with incredible clients here in Maine. It's a perfect balance for me. I do one-on-one coaching with students in my courses, more details here: courses.thirtybyforty.com/ Thanks for being a part of this community!

[@anhungvn68]

so creative

[@emiliovazquez2676]

As always pure quality...

[@30by40]

Cheers...🙏

[@dieguer]

wonderful job!

[@30by40]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@bellousow2607]

Amazing

[@r.mercado9737]

Great presentation and commentary. BTW, one of my calligraphy students observed your class, as he is a follower, as am I. What he observed was the 3 finger use of your hold. He said, sir, this is a habit you needed to stop, in us, to prevent finger and muscle fatigue. I asked what is your point? His response, "I wondered if he too experiences finger and muscle fatigue?" Great question. He further stated, "After his habit was cleared, the finger and muscle fatigue stopped. My population age is 25 and older. Many thanks!

[@30by40]

Cheers, appreciate the support!

[@chrisnovelli-n3architecture]

Sketching and physical model building (by hand, not laser cut) is still a part of my process. and even more so since hanging my shingle a few years ago. Not necessarily for the pay the bills types of projects, but the opportunities to do something meaningful.

[@30by40]

So glad to hear others continue this practice, Chris...! Cheers...

[@daviddiehl-gy2sq]

Have designed a model house with board by board construction. It is the only way to find mistakes in design. Plus it's the best way to show the customer what they are getting.

[@Kuroshiki_55]

Gosh this reminds me off my torture of making models. This is why i mike to have an idea of dimensions before making these. Which my teachers do not approciate 😅 since it makes me very slow rip. Love the setup! I also used 2 mats. I have also the big cutting knife, and a smaller one with sharper black blades. Its not yet an exacto knofe tho. Id recommend it too.

[@30by40]

I can relate...it's torture until you make a little miniature thing you're proud of and then it has a mysterious appeal. I'm always striving to maintain the balance between perfection and good enough. Keep making things, it gets easier. Cheers...

[@tufankilinc636]

Fantastic! New sub here. I've been binge-watching your channel this morning.

[@30by40]

Hey! Glad you found the channel

[@nikhilkj1568]

Premium architecture content out there...also waiting for an update on THE OUTPOST project ...so invested in that

[@30by40]

Cheers...appreciate the support! The OUTPOST has been quite a saga. Hoping to share more details soon.

[@eng.ahmedamir7606]

that is such a nice way to break the tip of the blade!!!

[@gonzalocabanzo2799]

Gracias, buen video ..!!

[@jgrant5255]

I appreciate your vocabulary.

[@kummer45]

3D modeling is a game changer so is Revit, Grasshopper 3D and Rhinoceros. Everything can be documented. In architecture there are no substitute. These are good tools for design. On the contrary, having more tools for design is always better. Drawing and model making are always available tools. They are part of the profession like laser cutting and 3D printing. CNC joins in too.

[@royasketch1486]

Very cool

[@thepermen5071]

I love this...

[@Tsukuyomi30]

can you upload another model video please, it's so satisfying to watch and easy to learn, all love ❤

[@mattlong6359]

Nice!!!

[@invencibletheory]

as much as i love models, they have never been a design tool for me. I find it much more intuitive to do all the 3d design explorations digitally! the two hours it took to produce that sexy physical model i'd use to crank out multiple 3d explorations.

[@danranquist502]

Thanks for the video and inspiration provided by watching it..I need to donate soon!..keep it up!

[@carloszaldivar4425]

Thank you.

[@user-ws2me9xm8t]

Very interestung from first to last second 🙂

[@C-Hobby]

Great ❤

[@EngineerObed]

Damnnnnnn you are too good!!!!!!!!!!!!