Architectural Models
Our model makers use State of the Art equipment and techniques combined with traditional materials and methods to craft beautiful, cost effective Architectural Scale Models. Real world architectural models impress clients and win projects. Let our award-winning team of artists and engineers from Apple, SOM, Northrop, and Catepillar help you.
| Foster + Partners | SWA Group | SOM | Yale University |
| Stellar | Herrero Boldt | Raytheon | SmithGroup |
| Deborah Berke Architects | Cal Tech | Cal Arts | University of Pennsylvania |
| Gensler | Propp + Guerin | University of New Hampshire |
Van Meter Williams Pollack LLP |
| Welk Resorts |
-M. Gloudeman, Penn Design, University of Pennsylvania
"I can not say enough about how pleasant and easy it was to work with Solid-Ideas. They were extremely helpful and did an incredible job. The architectural model was the talk of the university and the presentation. I couldn't imagine using anyone but Solid-Ideas in the future. Thanks again Oscar"
-W. Yang, SWA Group
"Solid-Ideas is the best 3D printing service out there. Their knowledge of file preparation and 3D printing allowed us to visualize and engineer our designs and successfully present our vision to our clients."
Caltrans
“Solid-Ideas's 3D printing service and model making skills enables our customers to more clearly understand our design proposals and it reduces the amount of time required for project acceptance”.
-P. Geraki, Yale School of Architecture
“It was a pleasure working with you, both your office and you personally! The detail on the 3D printed scale models is crisp and the delivery swift. You showed interest in the architectural concept and tried to work with me to improve the original files. You were more than helpful adjusting the price to a very limited student budget. At every point during the process, I felt reassured of the results. I have truly enjoyed working with you.”
-K. Ebner, Woodbury University
“It's been a great experience working with Solid-Ideas. The 3D printing service was fast and easy and far superior to other 3D printing I was trying out.”
QUALITY
- Not all models are made the same. We can achieve what traditional modeling cannot do alone.
- Our unique dual background in engineering and the arts differentiates us from the competition.
- We understand the purpose of your model and how to communicate your vision accurately and aesthetically.
- We care about craftsmanship: the sturdiness of our models hold up to everyday use.
AFFORDABILITY
- We charge 50% to 70% less than traditional foam core models.
- The savings are passed on to you without sacrificing quality.
FLEXIBILITY
- Quick, cost-effective replications at various scales.
- Stress-free adaptability to your evolving needs.
- The convenience to make last-minute design changes.
- Support for a variety of file formats, including Revit, AutoCAD, and Sketchup.
TECHNOLOGY
- Material differentiation with multiple colors and textures.
- High levels of detail for incredibly realistic models.
- Complex shapes and geometries you never thought possible.
RESULTS
- Physical models impress clients and win projects.
- 3D representations mitigate the potential to embark in the wrong direction.
- Seeing is believing: our 3D models create buzz from the beginning.
We have years of experience building large-scale models using the best techniques to match your goals and your budget. This includes working from traditional 2D drawings and designing patterns in CAD for large scale laser cutting.
Laser Cutting
Large scale models are still best made with laser cutting.
Custom Paint
We have a dedicated color and paint specialist.
Materials
We understand the proper use of traditional materials such as plexiglass and bass wood.
Lighting
This model uses just the right amount of interior lighting to simulate a beautiful 'lived in' glow.
We have years of experience building large-scale models using the best techniques to match your goals and your budget. We start with your 2D drawings or Autocad files and build them into amazing models used for design visualization, community approval and marketing.
3D modeling from floor plans
We 3D modeled the cottages using 2D floor plans. We also assigned color and materials.
3D Printed Parts
Using our Zcorp printer and the 3D files, we 3D-printed physical scale models with fine detail and color.
3D Site Modeling
Using 2D elevation curves provided by the client, we created a virtual 3D model with proper height levels.
CNC Milling
The site 3D file was then turned into a CNC program to mill the site out of foam.
Assembly & Finishing
All the parts are assembled and landscaping and trees are added.
We know how site models should be made to get your projects approved and for your designs to be improved.
3D Printing
This 4' x 5' model uses many multiple technologies, such as 3D Printing, wood working, and routering.
Adaptable
We built this site model to be altered over the life cycle of the project design and approval process. All the items are labeled and removable allowing for new building designs to be individually updated into the overall model.
Levels of Detail
We spent our time where needed most by having different levels of detail. For existing surrounding buildings, we kept the buildings simple and block form. But for the client project, we modeled and 3D printed high level of detail to really show off the proposed designs.
Ready for Approval
The final model is ready for city approval.
Monica wanted a unique gift for her husband; a table top model of their dream home they are soon to build together. Working from PDF floor plans, we modeled the cottage using 3D software and sent pictures to Monica for approval. The fun part was creating the physical model so it can be stacked and taken apart floor by floor, allowing all the interiors to be seen and experienced.
Monica
"I received the model and just wanted to say a big thanks for a tremendous job. I couldn't stop smiling as I put the floor plan together. The model absolutely exceeded my expectations, and I am quite sure that when my husband sees it, he too will be quite impressed".
Exterior
This model not only adds excitement to the building of their real dream home, but it will become a meaningful heirloom for family and friends.
Interior
Being able to view inside the various floor plans was a big help in experiencing their future home and planning interior design.
We offer FREE rush service and special support and to all students.
Difficult Geometries
Not only do we print models in color, but our 3D Printer can handle very difficult and complex forms.
Architectual scale models allow potential buyers to experience interior floor plans of projects not yet completed.
Showroom Interior Model
This 4' x 4' model uses multiple model making techniques, such as 3D Printing, wood working, leather upholstering, durable color automotive painting, and LED lighting.
3D Printed Furniture
Using style guides provided by the client, we designed, modeled, and 3D printed all the necessary furniture. Using 2d architectural drawings, we used laser cutting and custom color painting for the walls and floors.
Wood and Leather Display
Our wood working team created this beautiful wood and leather display to match the clients existing showroom interior design.
