Start with what visitors should notice
The Yakima Valley Museum wanted visitors to see the shape of the landscape around Mount St. Helens. We cut the terrain from elevation data on a CNC machine and laser-etched satellite imagery into a grayscale surface that keeps attention on the landforms. When the museum later wanted Mount Rainier, we used the same approach and scale, so the two read as a pair.
Let the subject choose the method
For the Ontario Science Centre's ice core, we tested resin mixtures and lit the core from below so its layers glow. For Petit Jean State Park, with Taylor Studios, we combined elevation data with park maps and landmarks, raised the relief 1.5 times and painted the terrain and waterways. For the St. Charles Heritage Museum, historic imagery put the Missouri River back where it once ran.
Choose details that explain the subject
The Mission San Miguel village diorama includes a partially built hut that reveals its framework. The detail lets the model show construction as well as the finished village scene.
The Mount Agamenticus model was designed as a touchable museum exhibit. Its brief specified a protective finish, painted roads and trails, and threefold vertical exaggeration to make the terrain easier to see.
Settle the gallery details early
Viewing height, lighting, labels and how close visitors can get all shape the model. If it will be touched or moved, or needs a protective case, plan that from the start. When a model is one part of a larger exhibit, we coordinate with the exhibit designers.
For children’s museums and family exhibits
Identify who will use the model and whether the display is for looking, touching or guided demonstrations. Discuss viewing height, reach, labels, handling and protection with the exhibit team. Make those decisions part of the brief, alongside the subject and available source material.
Plan for the years ahead
Gallery models are looked at constantly. Plan a protective case and upkeep. We repair and refurbish models, including on site, and we ship and install worldwide.
What it costs
Each project receives a fixed-cost proposal after we understand its scope. Cost factors include model size and scale, interpretive detail, materials, landscape finishing, lighting, visitor interaction and installation requirements. We also account for the schedule, shipping and installation where applicable. See what a custom scale model costs.
Common questions
What should we decide before commissioning a museum model?
The story the model tells, where it will be displayed, viewing height, lighting, labels and whether it needs a case.
Can a museum model show historic landscapes?
Yes. Elevation data and historic imagery can show how a place looked in the past, as on our St. Charles model.
Do you work with exhibit design firms?
Yes. We've built models as part of larger exhibits, including with Taylor Studios for Petit Jean State Park.
Planning the terrain itself? Our guides explain horizontal scale and vertical exaggeration and the elevation data and source information to prepare.