Learn about how I make architectural models in this two part tutorial series. In part 1 I'll show you the materials I chose, why I chose them and a few alternatives. I discuss why you would choose one modeling style over another, how to conceptualize what to model and how a few simple tweaks can make a big difference in the esthetics of your architectural models. I talk about my model making heroes, my workflow, and you'll learn why models constructed using planes to render space rather than block-like forms, offer a more realistic depiction of architectural space. This modeling style is realistic and suggestive, yet still open-ended leaving room for interpretation.