Model-making resources
Thinking about a physical scale model? These guides cover the questions we discuss with clients, from choosing a presentation format to planning the details and budget.
Showing a development before it is built
When a development is still on paper, buyers need help picturing the place. Real estate development models show where homes, streets and amenities sit together; renderings can then bring individual spaces and finishes into focus.
Read the guide ↗GUIDEShowing large equipment at a trade show
A good equipment demonstration starts with the questions your sales team hears most often. Trade show models can show the size of a product, the arrangement of its parts or the components hidden inside it. That conversation should guide the display.
Read the guide ↗GUIDEA physical model or a rendering?
Physical scale models and 3D renderings help people understand a project in different ways. The right choice depends on what you need to explain, how much the design may change and where the presentation will happen. Sometimes the strongest approach uses both.
Read the guide ↗GUIDEWhat does a custom scale model cost?
The cost of a custom physical scale model depends on what it needs to show. A simple model of a large site may involve less work than a smaller piece with detailed buildings, lighting and removable parts. A conversation about your plans is the best place to start.
Read the guide ↗GUIDEWhen is a physical model worth making?
A physical scale model is useful when people need to understand how things fit together. That might mean exploring an unbuilt neighborhood, examining equipment that cannot travel or seeing parts of a facility that are usually out of sight.
Read the guide ↗GUIDEA physical scale model: a sales centerpiece and a work of art
A beautifully made physical scale model gives your marketing and sales teams something to gather around, and it can stay on display long after the project is complete.
Read the guide ↗GUIDEWhy use a physical architectural model?
A physical architectural model gives people a shared view of a design, brings sales presentations into the room, and complements the digital material used to tell your project’s story.
Read the guide ↗GUIDEWhat is a topographic model, and when does a project need one?
A topographic model shows the shape of the land with roads, buildings and water in place. Learn when a project needs one and how scale and detail are chosen.
Read the guide ↗GUIDEPlanning a museum or exhibit model
What to settle before building a museum model: the story, viewing height, lighting, labels and protection, with examples from terrain and ice-core exhibits.
Read the guide ↗GUIDEHow long does a custom scale model take?
The timeline for a custom physical scale model depends on size, detail and how complete your drawings are. Here is what shapes the schedule.
Read the guide ↗GUIDEScale model uses and types
How mass, detailed and semi-detailed physical scale models serve design reviews, sales presentations and public exhibits.
Read the guide ↗GUIDEWhat is a model-making company?
A model making company turns drawings, plans and ideas into physical models that people can examine together.
Read the guide ↗GUIDEThe value of a physical scale model
Why physical architectural scale models help people understand a project, share ideas and explore a design together.
Read the guide ↗GUIDEModel repair, refurbishment and service
Archetype3D repairs and refreshes physical scale models. Discuss damaged components, cleaning, display needs and on-site service.
Read the guide ↗GUIDEDo you need completed drawings for a model?
You can begin planning a custom physical scale model before drawings are complete. Learn what helps Archetype3D estimate and plan your project.
Read the guide ↗GUIDEShipping and transporting scale models
Plan packing, shipping and installation for architectural, industrial and exhibit scale models with Archetype3D.
Read the guide ↗GUIDE3D printing for physical scale models
How Archetype3D combines 3D printing with fabrication, painting and assembly to build custom physical scale models.
Read the guide ↗Let’s talk about the model you have in mind.
Share what the model needs to show and who it’s for, and we’ll help you think through scale, details and next steps.
Contact us ↗