Source Material…
Category: Structure, Diorama

Genre: Real World

Source: San Juan, Puerto Rico

The Project…
Scale: 1:87 (HO Scale)

Size: 40 feet x 5.5 feet

Material: Laser cut acrylic, cast resin custom parts

Approach: Completely Custom!

Software:

Autodesk AutoCAD
Google Earth

Specialized Tools: Laser Cutter

Banco Popular commissioned this project to promote public awareness of a Light Rail/ Tram project to run through Old San Juan, the capital of the island Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. The project required about 40 custom structures that replicated in varying levels of detail, the key structures of the area. The highest fidelity was given to the Banco Popular corporate headquarters and the Capitol building, both of which I personally designed. Additionally, I designed another 15-20 structures of varying levels of detail including the shopping mall, the Sheridan resort complex, and the customs center as well as the street layout. I coordinated a team of model makers (including myself) in painting, assembling and detailing the miniature city. The rest of the structures were designed by the Boss, Mel I, and Nicholas P.

The Display was originally set up in Banco's Flagship office in Old San Juan ( of which there is a model on the display). It was so popular that when its allotted time was concluded, it was moved to another local location so that the public could continue to enjoy it.

Customizations:

I took my design cues mainly from photos shot by the client's architectural exhibit team, as well as a researcher's best friend - Google Earth. Often, structures were selectively compressed, to keep the essence of the building, while squeezing it comfortably into the overall display. Some, like the Capitol building, retained their full size, although geographically the Capitol ran over the back edge, so it was sliced to accommodate.

People who helped with this project: The SMARTT model making staff