3 Benefits of 3D Printing Architectural Models

3 ways architects use 3D printing

Architectural models in 3D printing

Probably the most common use of 3D printing in architecture is prototyping, which is an advantage of 3D printing in many industries. Using 3D printers allows architects to build architectural models faster and more accurately. 3D printers can complete a project within a few minutes, which significantly shortens the design and construction time. Printed models can be more detailed than models produced using traditional production methods. One of the biggest advantages of printing 3D models is that they can be printed multiple times and in different variations. This allows architects to create multiple designs for better analysis and modeling.

Creating multiple variations is particularly useful for examining spatial relationships in designs. By quickly creating models, you can better visually understand the results of your project. Because 3D printing reduces time, architects can also spend more time creating finer details that help further conceptualize the final product. Small-scale printed furniture, fixtures and intricate designs are important details that bring the concept to life and allow customers to fully understand the design.

Turning Torso by architect Santiago Calatrava 3D printed.

Marketing and sales goals in 3D printing

Architecture firms can showcase their work and designs in a more meaningful way using 3D printing. Whether your prints are used in customer presentations or in general marketing efforts, the practical nature of 3D printed models adds value to your marketing and sales efforts. For example, architects can use 3D printing to better present their ideas during presentations. This may include sending small-scale samples or presenting models at a pitch meeting to fully showcase a complex idea or structure. While presenting your design on screen can be effective, nothing can replace the ability to see a scaled model in person. Using 3D printing for this function is a sure-fire way to increase your company's efficiency during presentation meetings. 3D printing also allows companies to concretely showcase their creativity and ideas. By creating small 3D printed marketing materials, you can give future customers something tangible to show off your company's ingenuity and capabilities, long before they receive the finished design.

Savings in 3D printing

Another important reason why more and more architectural firms are turning to 3D printing is to save money. And we're not just talking about money - 3D printing for architecture can also save time and even our planet. Traditionally, models were created by painstakingly cutting and pasting cardboard or foam patterns over the course of days and weeks. Additive manufacturing reduces this time to just a few hours. Even larger models can be printed overnight in the office, giving you more time to plan and make changes. Because so much time is saved in modeling, it also opens the door to creating more variations and comparing different designs and ideas. 3D printed models also allow architects to reduce costs while working more sustainably. For example, filament such as PLA is biodegradable, and at the same time it is one of the most cost-friendly filaments on the market. In addition, PLA filament is ideal for printing complex designs and difficult details, making it the optimal material for architectural models. If used effectively, 3D printing can increase the efficiency of your company in many different aspects.

Conclusions

Many architecture firms have adopted 3D printing technology for its value, allowing architects to focus on what they do best: innovation.