An architectural model usually invites us to imagine a finished building. Scale Model Studios goes a step further in its film for Aviva Arena: the miniature becomes a performer, revealing the venue through a carefully choreographed process of construction and discovery. Directed by Jennifer Kidd, the commercial brings an ambitious future space into the immediate, tangible world of stop motion.
In July 2026, Aviva described the planned Bristol venue as a transformation of the historic Brabazon Hangars into a 20,000-capacity arena, with opening expected in late 2028. The film gives viewers a way to explore that proposal before the building welcomes its audience. Aviva says the production involved more than 60 hours of animation, capturing 24 frames for each second. [1]
Designing a model that can perform
Kidd explained that the team reduced architectural drawings to 1:500 scale and designed components specifically for animation. Facade and cladding sections could be introduced progressively; seating was 3D printed; and the roof was divided so solar panels could be added separately. Miniature trees completed the surroundings. [2]
The rotating view required more than an attractive model. A turntable marked in millimeter increments was coordinated with the motion-control camera move, allowing construction and rotation to unfold together. Planning the relationship between each increment and the evolving building was central to achieving the continuous shot. The animator appears in the final sequence, bringing the human scale of the production into view. [2]
The finished exterior image is striking in its restraint. Pale architectural forms stand against darkness, with a warmer glow drawing attention into the central opening. The trees and surrounding approach help the building read as a destination rather than an isolated display object. Lighting gives the model a sense of invitation as well as a clear silhouette.
Scale Model Studios developed the work with Aviva’s creative team. Its combination of fabrication, animation, and camera movement makes the construction process itself the film’s central attraction. [3]
For model makers and animators, the project demonstrates a rewarding design principle: plan the miniature around what the shot needs it to do. Here, assembly becomes action, and architecture becomes a story that can unfold in time.
Watch Aviva’s behind-the-scenes film for a closer look at the model-making process.
Behind the scenes
Behind the scenes: Scale Model Studios / Aviva.
Images from the production
Aviva Arena miniature. Image: Scale Model Studios / Aviva.
References
- Aviva — July 2026 announcement.
- Dragonframe — Filmmaker interview and production details.
- Scale Model Studios — Scale Model Studios’ project page.
