Architectural Model Production for Mixed-Use Commercial Complex
This case study details the production process of a high-fidelity architectural model for a mixed-use commercial complex featuring a shopping mall and an office tower, as shown in the reference image. The model serves as a visual presentation tool for real estate marketing and urban planning exhibitions.

1. Project Overview
The prototype is a modern mixed-use development consisting of a low-rise shopping mall (branded "MixC") and a high-rise office building, with a landscaped public area and water feature at the ground level. The model is produced at a scale of 1:200, aiming to replicate the architectural details, material textures, and spatial layout with precision.
2. Production Process
2.1 Data Collection & Base Modeling
First, the production team collected architectural drawings (CAD files, renderings) and on-site photos to establish accurate dimensions. Using CNC cutting and 3D printing technology, the basic structural frames of the mall and office tower were fabricated from high-density ABS boards. This step ensured the geometric accuracy of the building volumes and floor heights.
2.2 Facade & Detail Refinement
For the shopping mall facade, transparent acrylic sheets were used to simulate the glass curtain walls, with printed decals to replicate storefronts and advertisement screens. The office tower's vertical grid lines were etched into the surface to mimic the metal panel texture. LED light strips were embedded into the building edges to recreate the night-time lighting effect, enhancing the model's realism.
2.3 Landscape & Environment Production
The ground-level landscape was constructed in layers: a base plate was painted to represent roads and sidewalks; miniature trees and shrubs were made from static grass and plastic foliage; the water feature was created using transparent resin with blue dye to simulate flowing water. Pedestrian and vehicle models were placed at appropriate scales to reflect the site's vitality.
2.4 Lighting & Final Assembly
Internal LED lighting systems were installed to illuminate the building interiors and facade accents. All components were assembled on a unified base plate, with careful alignment to match the site's spatial relationship. Final adjustments were made to ensure consistency between the model and the original architectural design.
3. Quality Control & Application
Strict quality checks were conducted at each stage, including dimensional verification, texture matching, and lighting functionality testing. The finished model was successfully used in sales centers and planning exhibitions, effectively communicating the project's design concept and commercial value to stakeholders and potential buyers.
This case demonstrates that precise craftsmanship and attention to detail are crucial in producing architectural models that serve as powerful communication tools in the real estate and urban planning industries.