Architecture
Our award-winning team is comprised of artists and engineers from Apple, 3M, Northrop, Rand, Catepillar, and Mori Seiki. We offer CAD services, 3D printing, and traditional model making to transform your ideas into amazing real world architectural models that impress clients and win projects.
| 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 |
-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.
At Solid-Ideas, our experts understand that each model is a series of individual parts. Compartmentalization means:
- Safer, more affordable transportation.
- Minimized risk of breakage.
- Maximized storage potential.
By choosing the right technology at each turn, we create amazing models at excellent prices.
CNC Milling
CNC milling is perfect for landscaped bases and large general forms.
3D Printed Parts
When fine detail or color models are needed, our Zcorp and Objet 3D printing is unparalleled.
Easy Assembly
Our models are easily assembled with flawless interlocking parts.
We understand how to interpret architectural plans. Let our experts transform your PDFs and Autocad drawings into 3D files ready to be printed as striking, physical models or rendered as beautiful images and animations.
Sectional Townhouse
Using 2D floor plans, we modeled this multi-floor townhouse so it could be stacked and taken apart for interior viewing.
Realistic Renderings
We can create hyper-real 2D environments that simulate real work lighting and materials. 2D renderings are a great compliment to 3D physical models.
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 sales.
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 love working with architectural students who push the limits of what is possible.
- Solid-Ideas offers support to students.
- Our expert model makers work closely with you to realize your vision.
- You focus on design, not model making.
- Students get an educational discount off our already incredible 3D printing prices.
Don’t wait to access your school’s 3D printer: We do FREE rush orders for students!

