Every project gets a fixed-cost proposal before work begins, based on the model's purpose, source material, features, schedule and delivery requirements.
Architectural model cost and other project types
The proposal reflects the modeling, fabrication, materials, painting, finishing and assembly needed for your project. Size is one factor, but complexity matters too: a large terrain model with simple building blocks can require less work than a smaller model with finely detailed architecture, custom lighting and removable parts.
Model scope and level of detail
Study and explanatory models. Simple massing models for design reviews, early proposals or explaining a basic layout.
Semi-detailed presentation models. Recognizable buildings, site context, landscaping and roads for proposals, public meetings and planning approvals.
Detailed presentation and sales center models. Highly finished architecture, landscape, people, vehicles, bases and cases for sales centers, lobbies and trade show booths.
Large, complex development models. Multiple unique buildings with detailed architecture, landscape, roads, amenities and surrounding context for sales centers and master plan presentations.
Lighting and interactive features
Lighting and interactive features are scoped to the presentation. Cost depends on the number of illuminated elements and how the controls work. Options include programmed lighting, touchscreen or presentation-linked controls, lift-off or cutaway sections and moving parts.
Factors that shape project scope
Level of detail. Window mullions, balconies, textured facades and custom-painted finishes require more detailed fabrication and finishing than simple blocks.
Number of unique elements. Ten identical homes take less time than ten different buildings, because each new design needs its own modeling and fabrication.
Terrain. Contoured land, water features and dense landscaping add work, especially in mountain and resort projects.
Lighting and interactivity. The proposal accounts for the number of illuminated units, data paths or systems, and how lighting connects to touchscreen or presentation controls.
Removable and moving parts. Lift-off roofs, cutaways and movable buildings need extra engineering so they hold up to repeated handling.
Display cases and bases. Custom acrylic cases and finished bases are scoped around the model’s dimensions, materials and display setting.
Source material. Complete CAD files or 3D models save time. You don't need finished drawings to start, but missing information adds design work.
Schedule. The delivery deadline helps determine the fabrication approach and level of detail included in the proposal.
Shipping and installation
Shipping is quoted for each project based on model size, packing requirements, destination and delivery schedule. Every shipment is insured, and we guarantee your model arrives undamaged: if anything is damaged in transit, we repair it at no cost.
Installation, where needed, is included in the proposal based on the site requirements, work involved, schedule and travel.
How to get the most from your budget
Focus the scope on what the model needs to communicate. A simpler finish, a different scale, fewer unique buildings or fewer special features can bring the price down without losing that. Tell us your budget early, and we'll suggest an approach that fits it.
Why Archetype3D
We have made custom physical scale models since 1984 for clients around the world. Our shop is in Denver, and we work closely with you at every stage. Our team combines 3D printing, CNC milling and laser cutting with hand finishing, and we ship and install worldwide. Archetype3D is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business.
Common questions
How do you price a scale model?
Each project receives a fixed-cost proposal after we review its scope. Cost factors include size and scale, level of detail, unique buildings or components, terrain and landscaping, lighting or interactive features, materials, schedule, shipping and installation where applicable.
Is the price fixed?
Yes. We review the project’s scope and provide a fixed-cost proposal before work begins.
What is the cheapest custom scale model?
Simple study or explanatory models, which focus on essential form and layout, are the simplest we build. Each project still receives a fixed-cost proposal after we understand its scope.
Does a bigger model cost more?
Not necessarily. Size, scale, complexity and detail all affect the scope. A large site model with simple buildings can cost less than a small, highly detailed model with lighting.
How much does an interactive or lighted model cost?
Lighting and interactive features are scoped to the presentation. Cost depends on the number of illuminated elements and how the controls work. Options include programmed lighting, touchscreen or presentation-linked controls, lift-off or cutaway sections and moving parts. Each project receives a fixed-cost proposal after we understand its scope.
Which features affect a complex model’s cost?
Multiple unique buildings, detailed architecture and landscape, custom components and interactive features can increase the work required.
How much does it cost to ship a scale model?
Shipping is quoted for each project based on model size, packing requirements, destination and delivery schedule.
How much does on-site installation cost?
Installation, where needed, is included in the proposal based on the site requirements, work involved, schedule and travel.
Can you work within a set budget?
Yes. Share your budget at the start, and we'll recommend a scale, level of detail and features that fit it.
How do I get a quote?
Send us drawings, renderings or a description of the project, along with your display space and deadline. Contact us for a fixed-cost proposal.