A complex model with many elements

I have been asked to build a model of a large and complex development. The developer wants to show the many ecological and sustainable features of this site as well as the the attention to detail they are building into each unit. They put together a list of the important elements that they want to demonstrate and it became quite obvious to me that showing everything in one model would be impossible.

Use an interactive site model to show the overview

The site model is essential to demonstrate to your clients the relationship between points of interest. Lakes, parks, trails and schools all have different value to different residents. To find the perfect location for your family to live is a simple task when using a well designed site model. This community represented in our site model here is a great example. The model has a color coded legend to help clients locate the most important features of the development. Lighting effect include fiber optics, LED's, and area lights illuminate the selling points and give the client an interactive experience. The many buttons allow the user to explore the development at their leisure and helps to truly engage them in choosing their home site.

Use small detail models to highlight selling points

This development had so many great sales elements that we couldn't show them all in one model. The solution was to build four small models that each detailed unique features of the development. These inexpensive detailed models were placed within the reader rails on each side to the site model. One represented the lake system with its nature trails and wildlife, all with an easy walk from the development.

A second Detailed model demonstrated the residential neighborhood and showed off the architecture and living environment.

Since one of the important selling points of this development was it's concern for the environment we created a detailed model to show how water was used and recycled. The many elements of this scaled environmental model were clearly labeled to guide the buyer through many of the built in characteristics that normally they would never notice.

The final featured model represented the family friendly nature of this development. We created a scaled environment showing children and parents enjoying a day at the park. The gazebo, Dog run, picnic area and playground were represented on this small model in an entertaining way.

Let the scale of the model highlight your best ideas

This extremely successful display sold the quality of the development and the care given to the design. We could not show all the fabulous features in one model so we built five. Each one clearly demonstrating different and impressive details of the overall design. The lesson here is that one model cannot always show everything, but even with a limited space, a creative model maker can design a marketing display that your sales team will be proud to use.

Scale Models can be top secret

We have constructed numerous display models for Lockheed Martin over the years. Unfortunately, Lockheed Martin works on many sensitive government projects and they are sensitive about me showing off top secret equipment. In order to avoid being thrown into the stockade, I have kept many of these really cool models to myself.

Models of existing existing equipment for trade shows

Luckily, the most recent 3d engineering models we have done for Lockheed Martin can be shown off because they are of equipment being used in airports and wind farms around the world. Check out the environmental models of the Wind Tracer! This is a cool device that airports use to identify dangerous wind conditions when airplanes are approaching the runway.

Small models sell big equipment

In order to show off the Wind Tracer while selling the technology to new markets, Lockheed Martin hired Archetype 3D to create several 3d scale models of this in three different scales in order to reach completely different venues.

Different scale models serve different purposes

One of the models is about 4" across, a scale that is convenient for sales staff to carry with them to meetings or shows. We also built a larger version that is on display at the home office when it is not being used in a trade show setting. The smallest version is 1 centimeter  across for use on an existing model of a wind farm to show relative scale.

This photo shows our model next to the actual Wind Tracer

Many scale model building techniques are used

Even a small model required many techniques to get right. Parts of this project were grown on our 3D printer. The main housing of this physical model though, was built from acrylic parts cut on our laser cutters. Brass fittings, screen material and custom paint were all needed to give this model a finished look.

Models of heavy equipment show off products

Armstrong is a company that makes HEAVY equipment. Industrial heaters, chillers and vaporizers are some of their products. This equipment weighs thousands of pounds and can be up to 40 feet long. So the challenge is about how to present their product in a trade show in Germany that not only leaves a strong impression but also demonstrates the scope and feel of the equipment itself.

Shipping models overseas - a unique challenge

The Three models that we built were each 7' long or tall. Custom crates were built using kilned dried wood for overseas shipping. Standard plywood would not be let off the ship in Europe for fear of invasive insects. The model crates had to be approved for international travel.

Electric heater model shows cross section:

The other problem with bringing actual equipment into a show (besides size and weight) is that you can only see the casing, not what is inside. With Archetype 3D models that is not an issue. We cut away at equipment to reveal components and functionality that is not visible from the outside. This model had a simple cut-away but often our model with have lights, interactive components, motors or even sound to make your interactive model a fun, entertaining and educational display that your customers will not soon forget.

Small models - Size is relative

This is a small representation of the Vaporizer tank. I only stand at 6'4" and the actual tank can be over 14' tall. This seven foot version is almost petite in it's dimensions and much lighter, easier and cheaper to transport. Clients spend thousands each year moving heavy equipment in and out of trade show spaces. Models and dioramas become very cost effective when crating, shipping , set-up and take-down time are all considered. Trade shows are not inexpensive propositions so models that can be easily transported and used for years become a very attractive alternative.

New York City model

Model show city train turned into park

Selling a new concept in the Big Apple is a challenge and the solution is to get everyone involved in the party. How better to engage your customers with a new advertising concept than to build a sales models of the sales event. This event takes place on a former elevated train track that has become a city park.

Advertising model shows off event

The event is a interactive sales demonstration. The large poster are full screen displays that capture real time images taken from the cameras being sold. The diorama shows sales people give demonstrations in the amphitheater While the kiosks scattered around the park show off the products. Of course there is also a full bar to keep the visitors in good spirits.

Good Communication through model making

Not every architectural model project is about sales. Sometimes it is important for company wide communication and design. The TriZetto building is an example of a corporation who understands the value of great communication between executives and the employees.

Presentation model ready for the big event

This healthcare management company needed a new headquarters in Denver. Working closely with their architect Opus Design, we built a small but detailed model of new proposed headquarters in time for the presentation and groundbreaking.

Model helps designers make changes

As is the case in these events, the model became the center piece of the festivities. As an additional benefit the model also aided the architects in their design choices and allowed decisions to be made in a small scale that would have cost dearly to change on the building.

We have developed a new website to help focus on efforts on all our clients that are not architectural in nature. Check out our new look here. Our new URL is http://engineering-scale-models.com/

Model making is about building shapes that sell products. Our architectural models have sold buildings and homes for nearly thirty years but many other industries use our work as well.

DEMONSTRATIVE EVIDENCE AND COURTROOM MODELS:

In the courtroom our models are used to demonstrate accident scenes or human organs. This is challenging work due to the need to fully understand the case and to create an acceptable model display that the judge will allow and jury will understand.

CIVIL ENGINEERING MODELS:

Many highway projects, bridges and other civil developments have used our models to demonstrate the work and win the bids. We also create models of industrial plants and products. In a trade show setting, there is nothing better than a model to show off your work.

These are just two of the many categories viewable on our new site. Visit us to see many more industrial museum and aerospace models.

I suppose that this is a sign that the economy is starting to turn. We just completed an elaborate sales model for a residential sales office. A few years ago we were building four of these a month but more recently these types of projects are fewer and farther between. East West Partners in South Carolina hired us to construct there new development called "7 Calhoun"

This model with internal lighting is a large project both physically and in the amount of detail included. It is always fun to work on scale models of commercial buildings that are out of state where we can build palm trees and let the ivy grow wild on the brickwork. 

Elements of Landscaping Scale Model

The building forms a triangle with an internal courtyard. Fountains and Lilly ponds accent this lovely, quiet hideaway. The residence is also adjacent to a public park that is designed with many paths and seating areas. 

The design of this project was lead by architect Stephen Ramos of LS3P Associates. A project of this complexity takes close communication during all phases of construction. The partnership between client, architect and scale model maker was very evident and successful in the construction of this spectacular display.

The time has come for a change. Archetype 3d has moved to a new location. First off here is our new address for you to update your records

Archetype 3D

1020 Carbon Ct. Unit F

Erie Colorado 80516 - 2435

Our phones have stayed the same. You can still reach us at 303-449-0878 and my cell number is also on the website if needed.

When the time came to find a new locations we looked far and wide for the best, most suitable site for our new shop. There were a lot of available spaces but not many of them would work for us. Living in beautiful Boulder Colorado, we did not want to have a marathon commute. We also needed a space with a flexible shop area, an attractive reception area and a separate space for our technical equipment.

We found everything we need to build the best marketing models and prototypes in Erie Colorado plus a few things that we did not expect. The best surprise is the natural light available from three large windows and four skylights in the shop. During the day there is practically no reason to turn on the lights. The town is centrally located within one half hours drive from Denver, Boulder, and Denver International Airport so it is easy to visit for all of our local clients. Another nice surprise is the beautiful views of the mountains. Traveling from Erie back to Boulder each day is a joy with the entire front range spread out before us in all of its many forms. Today we are seeing the snow covered mountain and the towering form of Longs Peak creating a dramatic white profile to the vast Colorado sky and unique cloud cover. I have never seen such interesting clouds as here in this state which give us the most beautiful sunsets I have seen anywhere.

We were quickly able to customize the space for our electrical and equipment needs. There is plenty of layout space for our architectural and engineering models as well as storage space for materials. Our spray booth, laser cutters and 3D printers are all up and running. We are now working on several projects so the shop is humming along as we speak.

Craig Martin

"If a picture is worth a thousand words then in this ,case the model was worth a 1,000 pictures."                              

  --Rich Wolfe, Lead Architect Heery International

Once or twice a month, we invite clients to Archetype 3D for a shop tour or visit them at their offices to present everything about scale models and how it applies to their projects. Site and campus specific scale models are perfect to improve client communications about design, public review and fundraising. During the course of one of our “Lunch and Learn” presentations with architects at Heery International, Rich Wolfe, the lead architect came forward with a hospital campus project in Aspen.  As it turned out, Aspen Valley Hospital was undergoing a major multi-phase project change to accommodate their needs the next 10 to 15 years. It was as if a light was switched on when Rich realized how a scale model would fit the Aspen Valley Hospital’s project.

The Scenario

Several important items were at play in moving the Aspen Valley Hospital project forward. A model would serve this purpose in a number of ways.  The public would be easily able to preview proposed changes in the buildings height and location at site through the next two phases. It could be used as a training tool for employees and emergency planning.  It could raise community awareness about the project prior to an election for bond issuance. Finally, the use of a model tends to decrease the cost in design and construction ultimately minimizing lengthy delays.

The Solution

Produce a model to reside at the hospital in a semi-permanent location where the hospital BOD and managers could meet with the community. The model served to meet key project objectives in the planning and funding process. First, it illustrated and demonstrated the design in physical form for public and city planners review. Second, it gave the hospital administration, staff, and architects a place and centerpiece to gather around to talk about and envision the future of the campus. Ultimately, the model was helpful to the Aspen Valley Hospital Foundation in pursuing fundraising.

The Process

We received the site plans, architectural renderings and elevations to develop a bid. We understood from working with Rich he would need some flexibility to make some changes on the fly as the model was built. We assured Rich as the project manager he would be able to track the project as it was being built on a regular basis by viewing photographic posts made by our shop manager. Equally important, we have an open-door policy for project managers like Rich to drop in and work with the  model makers to adjust small changes in design and to remedy any unforeseen design problems as the model was built. 

"Archetype 3D has a sophisticated operation with the latest technology like using 2D CAD drawings converting them into 3d physical pieces. It was easy to work with Archetype 3D team. They have an open door policy so I was able to visit while the model was being built and when I wasn't able to drop in I could track progress on line through daily photos of the job."

                                     --Rich Wolfe, Lead Architect Heery International

The Model Exceeded Expectations

According to Rich the model has smoothed the process on all fronts and revitalized the community around a vital part of its everyday existence—the hospital. “The low profile design illustrated by the model answered all their questions. The PUD process with the city planners was easier because we were armed with a model that illustrated near and long term changes to the campus.  It’s gratifying to see a model work and convey so much information to a wide range of different people in so many different situations.”

                                     --Rich Wolfe, Lead Architect Heery International.

How much will it cost?

More often than not, in the first minutes of conversation, clients ask, “how much will it cost?” before we even know what they want built into their project model. There is no fast and simple answer to this question. Each client and scale model project is unique. 

There are a lot of fixed elements and tangible variables that go into building a scale model. As simply beautiful as the finished scale model appears, developing a fair, reasonable and accurate price estimate can get a bit tricky, and sometimes, pricey. 

Fixed and Variable Scale Model Costs 

Most model’s costs depend on a number variables: the type of model, scale of the model, base size, the amount of design detail, special effects and crating.  Once we define the design of the model, the least inexpensive parts of building a model are the materials used to build it. Other fixed costs included in the equation are the management, facilities, supplies and equipment required to assemble them.  The single most expensive variable cost in building a scale model is the time our expert model builders take to create and assemble all the parts. 

Case Study: Mass model to full detail Guidelines

The amount of detail needed to show off your project to your clients will be the overriding factor affecting the price of your model. Simple mass models, showing fewer details on structures and in landscape, are often all you need. When the model is used to show height variations or building density, there is no need to put on all of the surface detail that would drive up the cost. 

On the other hand, a model used for marketing and sales may need to illustrate and accentuate detail. Colors, textures, seasonal climate and lighting effects all influence a client’s decision whether to buy. The size and scale of your model affect the price, too. In a showroom setting allow about three feet of space for people to circulate around the model. If the model is traveling to various locations specialized crates are built to fit in order to safely move and present the model with ease.

Examples Rough Model Pricing: All these factors considered, small site development topo tables 3X3’ up to 4X6’ with the site, landscaping and  mass models to show location and density may cost between $3K and $12K. Elaborate showroom or review process models for commercial properties, residential lofts, residential housing,  mixed use or resorts range from $25k to $45k.*  

*Note: these are rough estimates and guidelines. 

The Basics for a Model Estimate

All we need from you are architectural site plans, elevations and renderings to give you a definitive bid or estimate.  Any plans on hand? Our estimates are free!