3D models of Coventry

About two years ago I created a 3D model of the city centre, which is intended to represent the city as it was in 1960ish. It was created using Google's Sketchup program. Here is a sample view: I chose to make it in monochrome as many of the images I used to add 'texture' to the buildings were not in colour. If anyone would like a copy, I'll gladly email it. You'll need Sketchup to view or manipulate it, but it's a free download, though no longer a Google product. You can fairly easily get to know the program and zoom, pan, rotate the model etc. You can even walk through the subways! Unfortunately I started it before economical 3D printing became available, so it hasn't been done in a way that can be printed out as a scale model.

Hi Mc. Yes please - cheers! What did you base the imagery on?

I'd love to see it. Do you use sketch up for any other projects or your own ideas? Edited by member, 4th Nov 2013 9:49 am

Having just upgraded to Sketchup Maker 2015, I've found it's possible to create animated walkthroughs of my models. Broadgate circa 1960 animation

Brilliant, clever you 👍 and I love the Lady Godiva in pride of place like she should be, also enjoyed the tour via the Martyrs' mosaic and the red double decker bus that brings back memories.

Very clever. Like the bit where you climb aboard the bus.

Thanks, John, for bringing FHP1 back to life

Brilliant, always did like the top front seat on the bus.

All - just to update this - not sure if this is the same person but there's a very clever person starting to model old Cov in 3D here. The results are fabulous! Enjoy!

They certainly are. Here's another!

I have been in touch with Pete - the chap who created these videos. He has just joined this forum so will hopefully be adding some history behind these here soon. Welcome Pete!

These are great! I loved the one going up Hertford Street and down the Burges especially. They deserve more publicity.

Brody Swain is talking to the man behind these on BBC Coventry & Warwickshire today(Monday) after 2pm

Wow! knowing exactly how long it takes to construct such models accurately, I can only wonder at the painstaking dedication it will take to complete such a project. My attempt to model Broadgate took almost as long as the actual building of it! I especially liked the way views of the model were sychronised with contemporary images. Awesome.

The model is seriously cool! Exciting times or what! It just occurred to me I can listen in to C&W radio. I'm tuned in on the internet. Edited by member, 11th Apr 2016 1:18 pm