While automated processes and algorithms are becoming increasingly sophisticated in the field of 3D printing, human interaction remains invaluable for leveraging creativity, addressing complex challenges, and ensuring the successful integration of 3D printing technology into various industries and domains.

While there are some clear near-term drawbacks to 3D printing structures, much can and will be improved or eliminated through continued innovation. The speed at which buildings can be erected using far less manual labor clears two major drawbacks of conventional construction. Beyond 3D printing concrete structures, there are still plenty of other existing applications for the technology within the architecture, engineering, and construction industries.

Architectural models have long been made using traditional processes and materials such as paper, cardstock, chipboard, and balsa. Today, 3D printing is making it cheaper, faster and easier to produce more precise, higher quality and safer models using lightweight, durable filaments. This post examines how traditional model making compares to 3D printed architectural models.