In the fast-paced world of design, physical models have taken a back seat to emerging digital technologies. But at OCULUS, tactility is part of our practice. Our Sydney and Melbourne studios have dedicated workshops, with space to experiment, iterate, play, test, refine, and reimagine.

Hand sketching and model-making are valuable skills for exploring and communicating options and ideas. In contrast to typing on a keyboard, writing and drawing by hand activates more elaborate brain connectivity. Moving away from the computer and picking up a pencil or scalpel can create space for ideas to flow freely, and the tangible end-product is often endearing.

We love working with paper, cardboard, timber, clay, 3D printers, and more, to bring our concepts into the physical world early in the design process. We have observed that it allows us to design more efficiently, creatively, and insightfully.

Every so often we dedicate time to making things with our hands outside of our project work. Our Australian team members were recently invited to interpret and model ‘habitat’ on 150x150mm base, resulting in a diverse and beautiful array of models.