Rebuilding history with 3D printed architectural models

The challenge for many in the architectural industry is the process of creating models for their projects and this is where 3d printed architectural models have become a great solution.

Although a simple concept, the actual work that goes into designing and the planning phase of a project is crucial and requires various disciplines.

Traditionally, architects with a plan to create architectural models needed a lot of different skill sets to learn. These skills include sculpting, machining or having the ability to operate tools that allowed the maker to create models.

To reduce the need to learn all these crafts, many in the industry often relied on third-party companies that would convert a design into an architectural model for their clients. This process was often time-consuming and tedious for many professionals.

This is a challenge industry-wide and 3D printing has had a significant impact. Professionals can now create all manners of intricate designs, that are not limited in scope and easily make them into tangible objects that people can interact with.

One such person who sees the benefits is John Heimensem, a passionate advocate for 3D printing and head of 3dscaleworks.nl. Mr. Heimensem mainly designs and creates 3D printed architectural models for museums, railway stations, bridges, houses, churches and many more.

He first entered the world of 3D printing in 2014 when he purchased a Leapfrog Creatr HS. As time passed, he became more proficient at using the printer. Because of this, he started designing more complex and intricate buildings using CAD Software without the limitation of previous processes. Due to the popularity of his creations, he then purchased another Creatr Hs and a Bolt 3D printer to expand his business.

Benefits of 3D Printed Architectural Models.

Recently, our team had the pleasure to meet Mr. Heimensem and interview him about what 3D printing means for him as an architect.

“Don’t think in boundaries, with 3D printing everything is possible.”

says John Heimensem.

We spoke with Mr. Heimensem and he says that 3D printing helps him a lot with his business in a number of ways. A standard project that would take up 6 to 12 months using the old architectural model building process would only now take 2-3 months with 3D printing.

“Most architects think 3D printing is too expensive, but I think that if you can quickly make a good model that you can show people you are already one step ahead of the competition. Also, architects are lazy and don’t want to invest time in learning how to use 3D printing software.

In the end, it’s all worth it. I am extremely satisfied with how 3D printing helped my business grow.’

Mr. Heimensem , 3D Scaleworks

Mr. Heimensem wishes for a future where architects will accept 3D printing as a core part of their business. He believes the many advantages a 3D printer can bring to an architect are more than convincing enough to get one. He wants to continue using 3D printing and looks forward to new developments.