To turn Giles’ model into data we could start working with on computer, we first used various 3D scanners and modelling programs. The next step was to make sure our CAD (computer-aided design) software could use the 3D scans. Doing this can be tricky. There are differences between how 3D scanners and CAD software collect and use data. To make the data match, we tweaked and adjusted the 3D scans, forming ‘surfaces’ over the points that the scanner picked up.

From there, we merged those chunks of data to form larger sections of surface that we could use in our CAD software. We then constructed the shape into ‘clean surfaces’ comprising single bits of geometry.

Next, we started work on the surfaces, bringing the shape into 3D and growing the model to its full 12-metre height. It looked perfect. And Giles liked what he saw.   The result was only possible because we spent time sorting out the data at the start. Now the real work would begin…