[map] Kaufmann House

This is a a discussion topic for the map "Kaufmann House" by Kasperg_JM which can be found here

Map description:

The famous house by Frank Lloyd Wright in Bear Run Pennsylvania. This map is for singleplayer, although there is no combat. It's just an architecture showcase.
This map was done between December 23 2005 and January 23 2006. Most of the credit goes to Frank Lloyd Wright himself. All I had to do was look at floorplans, reference pictures and then map.
A hostage rescue version is in proccess.

I consider the map 99% done, because there are infinite things that could be fixed or changed. The compile times were really long, so I had to consider the map finished.

Map screenshots:

Quite an impressive project! I would be interested in how you used real world and Hammer units to get the proportions right. From what I heared (and tried, long time ago) Real world proportions can get arkward for a reason in HL2. Here it looks very natural.

I like this piece a lot!

One of the reasons it feels natural is because I haven't placed any NPCs and it's hard to see the real scale. The proportions aren't exactly 100% like the floorplans I used.
As for the numerical unit conversion: The railing textures in HL and HL2 are 32 units high. In real life, the standard height for railings is 0.8 metres. That means 1 metre is almost exactly 40 units.
Since a metre is 39.37 inches, Valve's statement of 1 unit = 1 inch also makes sense.

I don't entirely know how this house is supposed to look in real life, but the map was doing great until I saw screen 2 -- that floor texture! Make it go away :P

I don't know what you mean... The material should be a bit reflective but I didn't know how to apply those effects when I made the map.
This is a real view of the floor:
http://www.cambridge2000.com/gallery/images/P9098906e.jpg

I'm really impressed by your patience and attention to detail. What are your plans for your next map? Another recreation or an original piece?

Ah, I see. What I'm saying is, is that the material you used looks like real rock indoors -- not artificial, like the image you posted. Anyhow, no big deal

The floor was made with natural rocks from the surroundings and it was then covered with wax. According to the architect, the reflection of the fireplace in the floor would make the floor look like it was as liquid as the river below. I think the idea is quite interesting!