3D printing architectural models with JB Architecture

We love running into our friends from JB Architecture (jbA) on Twitter because they’re always building something new and beautiful…with a little help from their Airwolf 3D printers. Based in Chichester, West Sussex, jbA is an award-winning architectural practice that has found much success 3D printing architectural models.

For example, if a client comes to jbA for kitchen rennovation services, the architectural firm can provide a 1:50 scale printed 3D model of a client’s new dream kitchen. Creating 3d printed architectural models of 2D renderings opens up a more productive dialogue with clients and helps firms deliver a beautiful design with greater efficiency and lower cost.

How does 3D printing architectural models help architects, contractors and clients?

3D printing architectural models is a remarkable service to offer because it helps both clients and contractors visualize what the final design will look like. Most non-architects can not understand a blueprint as easily or effectively as a profesional designer. As Nat Ellis, Head of 3D Visualisation for JB Architecture, put it, “Most people can’t read, or haven’t had experience reading 2D plans so they struggle to visualise exactly what the property will be like”.

When it comes to 3D printing architectural models, however, the design truly comes to life. Clients can see small details. They even can walk, literally, in a full circle around the model and see it from every angle — a full 360 degree view that is impossible to achieve with a two-dimensional rendering.

3D printing architectural models also provides clients and designers an easier way to assess and evaluate critical, but elusive, elements such as light. By positioning and adjusting light outside the windows of a model, you can determine the way the room will look as light changes throughout the day. You then can make changes to your design as desired.

The ease with which you can make changes to a 3D-printed prototype is another reason why firms are 3D printing architectural models. Older methods of rendering are expensive and time-consuming. Often involving hours of careful, painstaking work, traditional architectural models are made from a wide range of materials, including paper and wood. When it comes to 3D printing architectural models, it is much easier to make changes and simply print new designs.

For example, JB Architecture will print a full set of kitchen designs to allow clients to explore their options and get a better feel for the size and layout of the kitchen before committing to an order. jbA now even 3D prints models of popular furnishings to allow clients to make the 3D model of their future dream home even more realistic.

3D printing architectural models helps not only layman clients to more effectively visualize and understand a 2-dimensional blue print, but it also helps keep contractors on the same page by giving them a more clear understanding of the end product.

Want to know why Airwolf 3D printers are the best choice for architects and engineers? Contact us at (949) 478-2933 or email info@airwolf3d.com and we will be happy to provide solutions for you.