What is a Section Model in Architecture?
A section model in architecture is a physical representation of a building that has been “cut” through a specific plane to reveal its interior spaces, relationships, and vertical organization. Think of it as slicing through a building with a knife and displaying one half to show what’s happening inside.
Section models matter because they communicate spatial relationships that floor plans and elevations cannot.
It can be used to showcase the interior as well as the exterior finish of a building.
Architects build section models during design development to test spatial concepts, present ideas to clients who struggle with reading technical drawings, and communicate complex interior relationships to project teams.
What Makes Section Models Unique?
Section models show interior design like no other architectural representation. They reveal the volume of spaces, the quality of light as it moves through different levels, and how materials define boundaries between public and private zones.
Types of Architectural Section Models
Cross Section Model
Exploded Section Model
These separate different building layers or levels to show how they relate to each other. A school model might show the ground floor with its common areas, the upper floor with classrooms, and the roof structure as separate pieces that can be assembled to understand the whole.
Conceptual or Abstract Section
These emphasize spatial qualities rather than literal architectural details.
5. How to Make a Section Model (Step-by-Step Tips)
Start with clean, accurate architectural drawings. You need both plans and sections drawn at the same scale to ensure your model maintains proper proportions. Print these at the scale you plan to build.
Choose the right scale by balancing detail with overall size. 1:50 scale works well for residential projects where you want to show furniture and human scale. 1:100 scale suits larger buildings where you need to show overall spatial relationships without getting lost in details.
Decide your cut line carefully. Consider what story you want to tell and what spatial relationships are most important to reveal. The cut should go through the most interesting or complex spaces in your design.
Build from the bottom up, starting with a solid base that represents the ground plane. Construct the primary structure first, then add interior elements like floors, walls, and stairs. This sequence prevents you from building yourself into corners where you cannot reach interior spaces.
Use material contrast to separate different spaces or functions. Darker materials can represent service spaces while lighter materials show public areas. Different textures can distinguish between interior and exterior walls.
Consider adding simple LED lighting to create drama and clarity. A few small lights can show how natural light moves through the space and make the model more engaging during presentations.
4. Materials & Tools You Can Use
Foamboard remains the most versatile material for section models. It cuts cleanly, holds its shape, and accepts paint and other finishes well. Basswood offers precision for detailed work and has a natural finish that works well for warm, residential projects. Acrylic sheets create clean, modern appearances and work well for contemporary designs.
Cardboard works for quick studies and student projects on tight budgets.
MDF provides durability for models that need to travel or be handled frequently, though it requires more advanced tools for cutting and shaping.
Laser cutting produces precise, repeating elements quickly but requires access to equipment and digital file preparation. Handcrafting with knives and cutting mats gives more control over unique shapes and textures.
3D printing works well for complex geometric elements or repeating components like columns or window frames.
For adhesives, hot glue works for quick assembly but shows seams. PVA glue dries clear and strong but requires clamping time. CA glue (super glue) bonds instantly but can be brittle and difficult to reposition.
Finishing options include matte sprays to reduce glare during photography, texture pastes to simulate concrete or stucco, and acrylic paints for color coding different spaces or materials.
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FAQ
What is the best scale for a section model? The best scale depends on your building size and purpose. Use 1:50 for residential projects where you want to show furniture and human scale details. Use 1:100 for larger buildings where overall spatial relationships matter more than fine details. Use 1:200 for urban or campus-scale projects where you need to show multiple buildings or site relationships.
How do I choose the right materials? Choose materials based on your design concept, available tools, and presentation context. Foamboard works well for clean, modern designs and accepts paint easily. Basswood suits projects with warm, natural qualities. Acrylic creates precision and contemporary appearance but requires laser cutting or careful hand work. Consider how materials will photograph and how they will hold up to handling during presentations.
How long does it take to build a section model? Simple section models can be completed in 8-12 hours of focused work. Complex models with detailed interiors, lighting, or multiple materials may require 20-40 hours. Plan for extra time if you are learning new techniques or working with unfamiliar materials. The investment in time pays off through improved design understanding and communication clarity.
