Nestled Oasis, Architectural Model at 1/8" = 1'-0" Scale

This is an architectural model built at a scale of 1/8" = 1'-0" representing a ranger and water retention station located in Big Bear, California. The design responds directly to the extreme environmental conditions by featuring a fully reactive façade that wraps around the entire building. This innovative façade captures solar heat to enhance the building’s energy efficiency while simultaneously melting snow. The melted water is collected and stored in a below-grade cistern, providing a crucial water retention system in an area facing significant water scarcity. This sustainable approach maximizes the use of natural resources, supporting the station’s operations while addressing the challenges posed by prolonged drought. The model highlights the integration of architectural design with environmental resilience, demonstrating a functional and ecologically sensitive solution for a harsh and water-stressed location. This project was developed during my second year of architecture studies.

Software Used:

1. Rhino
2. Revit
3. AutoCAD
4. Grasshopper
5. Bambu Lab
6. Photoshop
7. Lumion
8. D5 Render

Materials Used:

1. Basswood, ⅛” square (x10)
2. PLA filament
3. Cardboard, ⅛” (x20 sheets @ 18" x 32")
4. Moss
5. Tacky glue (x2)
6. Maxi-Cure glue (x2)
7. Accelerator

Begin by modeling your building in full detail, including the surrounding topography. I used Rhino for this process—it was both enjoyable and time-consuming, especially with tight studio deadlines. Ensure the topography is modeled as one solid geometry to avoid issues when generating drawings later. Keep your model clean and accurate, with all components properly built, no shortcuts. Once you begin 3D printing, there’s little room for error.

Making the topography was one of the most enjoyable parts of this project, especially since it was my first time modeling one. And no, if you think I cut all these by hand, think again. I retired from that long ago and fully embrace modern technology to work faster and more accurately. For this step, I used ⅛” cardboard. I took 4’x8’ sheets and cut them down into twenty 18”x32” boards to fit the laser cutter on campus.

To begin, I created the contours in Rhino and exported them to AutoCAD. In CAD, I assigned the correct line weights and colors so the laser cutter could read the file properly. Once set, I hit play, and the laser began slicing through the material with lightning speed and incredible precision. In just 16 minutes, it produced 32 contour layers, my “topo puzzle pieces.”

To stay organized, I etched tiny numbers onto each piece, making assembly at my desk quick and seamless.

Once the topography was complete, the real fun began! Building the structure itself. As seen in the images, my studio desk on campus was in full creative chaos. The next step was crafting the structural beams using ⅛” basswood square sticks.

The remaining images illustrate the process of 3D printing the building’s interior program, from start to finish. As mentioned earlier, maintaining a clean and accurate digital model is crucial. For the prints, I used Overture Matte White PLA (available on Amazon). The total print time came out to 9 hours.

After printing, I assembled the parts using Maxi-Cure glue and Bob Smith Industries’ accelerator. I highly recommend this combo while the glue holds strong on its own, one drop of the accelerator instantly locks everything in place with rock-solid strength.

This was by far the most tedious step of the entire process. While 3D printing the main building was relatively straightforward, thanks to its solid, moderately sized components. The real challenge came with the reactive façade. The design features a series of triangular panels mounted on a cage-like structure, which is then attached to the building’s frame.

I started by constructing the structural cage, visible in the image above. Each grid square on the cage supports a single triangular panel, all angled differently to create a dynamic, responsive surface. At first glance, you might wonder how many panels are involved. The answer: 864.

Every one of those 864 panels was individually 3D printed and meticulously glued into place across all façades. The entire process took three full days of focused, repetitive work, but the result speaks for itself.

Close to the last step, almost there. This is the moment when you begin to feel relief, knowing the hard work is nearing its end. As someone who values detail and strives for quality, this step is essential for adding the final touches. At this stage, you’ll likely notice blemishes, mistakes, or imperfections and maybe even feel some frustration. This step is all about correcting them.

How do you fix these issues? It’s simple: camouflage. In the image above, I used moss to add vegetation to the topography. While the model looked good without it, the moss served two purposes: enhancing the model’s aesthetics and realism and cleverly covering up small mistakes made during topography assembly.

Always remember, especially at this scale, it’s easy to hide errors effectively. Just be sure your vegetation is also to scale; ripping a full-sized leaf and placing it on the model will only make things look off.

Final Step—You Made It!

If you're like me and want to take your model to the next level, consider ways to make it more immersive and engaging for your audience, in my case, my professors. A great model shouldn't just sit on a desk or look good in photos; it should invite interaction and exploration.

As architecture students and emerging professionals, we're taught to engage with our models to better understand spatial relationships and how people might experience the building. That’s why I incorporated magnets on each side of the structure, allowing the facade to be removed. This reveals how the façade panels cast dynamic shadows within the interior, shaping the light, space, and atmosphere.

Finally, document your work well. Take high-quality photos; your model represents your vision, skill, and persistence. It deserves to be captured and shared.