The AOD team was fortunate enough to visit the acclaimed
model builder, Peter McCann and his
team in their new studio space in the infamous Wrigley Factory Building on the
east side in Toronto.
While in their studio space we had the opportunity to see
their latest creations in the making. The approximately 5000-square-foot studio
has soaring 14-feet high ceilings and large warehouse windows that allow beautiful
natural light to spill into the workspace. Established in 1983, PMAMI was once a small local workshop
providing excellent craftsmanship in scale models. Now, PMAMI is a world-renowned innovator and leader in this specialized
industry.
When Peter started, all the details and craftsmanship were
done by hand. But as technology advanced, PMAMI
incorporated state-of-the-art technology – laser cutters, 3-axis CNC machine
and high-resolution ABS 3D printers which now help create intricate pieces for
their models. Technology has advance immensely since Peter started the firm,
but it can’t create a model from start to finish. Peter and his talented team
put each and every model together by hand ensuring they are architectural masterpieces.
Interestingly, Age of
Design works with 2D drawings while considering the 3D space during our
design process, it’s different for PMAMI.
It’s the reverse effect; they need to think in 3D but also need to put
everything into 2D form to create the detailed cutouts for each model.
Q&A
AOD: How long does it
take to finish an architectural model?
PMAMI: It takes roughly 4-6 weeks to finish a model.
Although we’ve had times when a client wanted the model done in 4 days!
AOD: Where do you get
all the materials and miniature objects?
PMAMI: We actually make everything in house from doors,
windows, trees, to furniture. The only things that we don’t make are the cars.
We import them from Germany.
AOD: Do you only make
architectural models?
PMAMI: Although are main clientele are developers and
architects, we do work from time to time with artists - creating prototypes and
3D sculptures.
AOD: How do you like
the new studio space?
PMAMI: It’s really great. Although we had a larger studio
before, Peter had the previous studio right when he started working for clients.
When he began to expand so did the studio space. It was organic and kinda
needed some design planning to suite our everyday needs. With the new space we started
from scratch and build our studio properly and efficiently.
AOD: PMAMI works internationally
what are some of the perks of working all over the world?
PMAMI: Well, we can’t say that we don’t get some perks while
working on the job! Peter distinctly remembers some pretty amazing experiences
while working on the Residences of The
Plaza in NYC.
(Something about getting a VIP suite when there are NO rooms
means you have some serious pull. Its no wonder their client was thrilled with
the work. Not only did this amazing model light up floor by floor and room by
room it could be uniquely controlled from any location by their client.)
AOD: Who are some of
the notable architects, artist and designers that you have worked with?
PMAMI:Oh we have done a lot over the years! From Diamond & Schmitt Architects to Douglas Coupland.
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