3D Printers – Always Be Closing

3D printing is an amazing technology currently lacking a killer app. Architectural modeling is n0t a huge industry, but 3D printing is changing it much the way VisiCalc changed book keeping. When I was in design school 5 years ago the state of the art was a balsa wood and chipboard representation of a building and site. 5 years hence it is likely that student architects will routinely print their theses. This development has two major benefits. First, it is easier to get feedback on a design decision. Second, it can help close a deal. A number of services like LGM Model enable architects to have their designs built on 3D printers without purchasing one for their office.

Architect Andrew Chary describes the impact of a 3D printout on the sales effort in an interview with Cadalyst:

“The software doesn’t convey perspective, such as the relative size and locations of rooms. The walkthroughs don’t excite clients. Models do.”

“Holding a model in your hand, there’s a light bulb that goes off. It’s almost like a fourth dimension — you see things better when you hold it in your hands, turn it around and upside down. It’s a whole new perspective. People are extremely surprised to see the models of their projects,” Chary said. “They light up like it’s a toy.”

I would argue that it is like a 3rd dimension, but the phenomena is inarguable.

Ultimately 3D printing and Architectural model making go well together for three reasons:

High Price Product Category

An extra $300 on a purchase of $300,000 or in the cases of these homes $3,000,000 is insignificant. Also, given the skilled labor required to make a comparable model the cost of a 3D printed model is an affordable option.

Superior Quality Product

The next best alternative to a 3D printer is a monochromatic model made from cheap wood and paper. The full color printouts that Zcorp printers can create produce a striking contrast.

Novelty

Miniatures have a strange power even more so when it is a miniaturized version of something as idiosyncratic as your home. People imagine 3D printers manufacturing the staples of everyday life, but they excel at creating more esoteric objects.

Tagged as: 3d printing