After much sawdust, sparks, and machine noise, our model series has transitioned from the digital to the physical. In the process, we learned a great deal about the setup required for CNC fabrication (how to slice, format, and organize data) as well as the fabrication process (machine setup, tolerances, and material constraints).

Study models are an indispensable design tool and there is great potential in the ability to quickly and accurately produce them—even those that are highly complex. However, it is important to remember that the CNC machines used in this study are also capable of producing full-scale building or site elements and we are already integrating this new technology into our project work.