Model Making 0001: The Burj Khalifa [Video]
The Brief
Welcome back Ladies and Gentlemen to the Architecture Student Diaries where it is my mission to help you kill it in Architecture school whilst making you, the best you in the process. For today’s class I thought we would do something a little bit different, so let’s do a model making video tutorial! In this class I am going to take you through building a model of the Burj Khalifa in Dubai which as of today is the world’s tallest building!
Below is a breakdown of the steps you’ll need to follow:
Step 1: What You’ll Need
Step 2: Cut Up Your Layers
Step 3: Pierce Toothpicks into Your Layers
Step 4: Continue the Process Until You Have Built Your Own Burj Khalifa
Now, let’s get into it. Class is now in session.
You can watch the video tutorial here!
Step 1: What You’ll Need
The items that you will need to complete this model are as follows:
TASD Burj Khalifa Template (attached)
30mm Thick Foam Insulation Board (available from Bunnings Warehouse)
Small Tooth Hand Saw (available from Bunnings Warehouse)
Wooden Toothpicks (available From a Supermarket)
Step 2: Cut Up Your Layers
By using the provided template, your foam and your saw you will be able to cut out the layers of the building; there are several ways to do this. I did the following: place the template over your foam board, as the foam is soft you can use the flat edge of the saw, one of your toothpicks or even a pencil to press down along the shape outline to create an indent on your foam. Using this indent as a guide, cut out your layers.
Step 3: Pierce Toothpicks into Your Layers
Pierce 1 toothpick into each of the bottom layers points to allow for the next layer to connect on top. Place the next layer above these toothpicks and press down until the two layers of foam are pressed firmly together.
Step 4: Continue the Process
Continue the toothpick and foam process mentioned above with each layer moving up towards the top of the building. Adjust the location and amount of toothpicks as you go upwards. Tip: The higher you go up, the more carful you will need to be, to ensure you don’t damage the smaller and more fragile layers on the buildings spire it may be safer to cut the toothpicks in half.
Final Notes
Congratulations! You now have your own model of the Burj Khalifa made by yourself. I would love to see your finished products, so post your creations to Instagram and make sure to tag @architecturestudentdiaries so I can see it and you can share your images with The Architecture Student Diaries community! What other famous buildings have you modelled or would like to model in the future? Let me know in the comments below!
Ladies and Gentlemen, class dismissed.
Iain Colliver, SONA, YBA, GKIHS
