I think architectural modelling has always been at the pinnacle of the hobby, and people like Richie must do a lot of research before starting a project. What starts out as a blank canvass and an idea comes alive. Plenty of manufactures produce products that all look the same when built but no two of Richie's models are ever the same, they are unique.
It is the one part of the hobby where most people fall down. There are many kit's or ready to plant buildings available and that is because it terrifies a lot of modellers. and that's why the card kits, plastic kits, or ready to plonk kits are mass produced. I went to Pendon many years ago and I was mesmerized by the quality of the buildings which are over forty years old. I wish Richie all the luck with his new investment. His genuinely good nature and modesty deserves mention also.
Rich,