Case Study 04 / 3D Modelling
Functional
Modelling.
Archival accuracy to interactive experience - carefully constructed digital assets made for page and screen.
Scroll to exploreTHE PROJECT
Computing history rebuilt with precision and purpose.
Working from original technical drawings, manuals and photographic references, MW-STUDIOS digitally recreated two icons of early home computing: the BBC Micro and Acorn Electron. A matching Cub monitor completed the set, giving the models the context needed for both editorial and digital use.
The emphasis throughout was historical accuracy, visual clarity and enough technical discipline for the assets to continue working beyond their original commission.
FOR THE PAGE / 01
A new visual language for an archival publication.
The models were commissioned for Idesine's landmark retrospective, Acorn: A World in Pixels. Wireframe diagrams revealed the underlying construction while finished renders conveyed form, finish and character across technical overviews, feature imagery and editorial spreads.
THE PUBLICATION / 02
Designed for clarity in print.
The illustrations brought contemporary precision to a book grounded in computing heritage. Because the assets were built as complete models rather than one-off images, they could be re-lit, reframed and adapted consistently across the publication.
INTERACTIVE USE / 03
From static model to working interface.
Following publication, developer Dominic Pajak integrated the BBC Micro and Cub monitor into a browser-based emulator. Adapted for web interaction, the models became functional parts of a virtual user interface - extending the work from archival illustration into a live, user-led experience.
Explore the Virtual BBC Micro ↗