I own a modelmaking and prototype firm in Richardson, Texas. We build a wide range of models and mockups for a variety of industries. We have expertise building architectural models and have built several, but would like to build more. I was just curious whether there is still a need for architectural models in architecture firms because it seems like the requests are far and few between. Can anyone recommend how to break in?
Your best bet is to do good work cheap/fast and market it to your desired clients. If you are really interested in the field, try to specialize in architectural model building. Too often, rapid prototyping companies say they can do the work required of an architectural firm, but they don't know the level of craft or detail that is expected and show up with some half baked turd.
If your are doing 3d printed models, make sure you can take a digital file from the software suite of choice (CAD, Revit, Rhino, Maya, Sketch-up, etc.) from the architect and get it done with out a bunch of bitching and whining or extra fees. We are not designing machined parts so the level of precision is not going to be what you are used to working with.
Jan 5, 15 6:00 pm ·
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Model-making & Prototype Shop
I own a modelmaking and prototype firm in Richardson, Texas. We build a wide range of models and mockups for a variety of industries. We have expertise building architectural models and have built several, but would like to build more. I was just curious whether there is still a need for architectural models in architecture firms because it seems like the requests are far and few between. Can anyone recommend how to break in?
Thank you in advance.
Go digital. Then you'll only be competing with thousands of recent architectural school grads who work for free.
yes, there is a need.
Your best bet is to do good work cheap/fast and market it to your desired clients. If you are really interested in the field, try to specialize in architectural model building. Too often, rapid prototyping companies say they can do the work required of an architectural firm, but they don't know the level of craft or detail that is expected and show up with some half baked turd.
If your are doing 3d printed models, make sure you can take a digital file from the software suite of choice (CAD, Revit, Rhino, Maya, Sketch-up, etc.) from the architect and get it done with out a bunch of bitching and whining or extra fees. We are not designing machined parts so the level of precision is not going to be what you are used to working with.
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