Archetype3D designs and builds custom physical scale models for architects, developers, engineers, museums and government agencies. We make models in Denver and work with trusted partners when a project calls for it. We ship and install worldwide.
Since 1984 · Models made in Denver · Fixed-cost proposals · Arrives undamaged or we repair it free · Veteran-owned (SDVOSB)
A sales center model helps buyers picture a neighborhood that doesn’t exist yet. An engineering model lets a team explain equipment that’s too big, too hidden or too new to show in person. A museum model puts a landscape in front of visitors. We start with the job, then choose the scale, detail and features that serve it.
Drawings and renderings show a project well. A model lets people stand around it, point to it and talk it through together. Our shop combines 3D printing, CNC milling and laser cutting with hand building, painting and finishing.
We combine 3D printing, CNC milling and laser cutting with careful hand building and finishing. Some projects call for a simple study model, others for a richly finished presentation piece, and we choose the methods to suit.
ARCHITECTURAL SCALE MODELS
Archetype3D is a U.S.-based professional custom architectural model maker. We make models in Denver and serve clients across North America and internationally.
Explore architectural modelsBuildings and campuses for design reviews, proposals and presentations.
See examples02Neighborhoods and resorts shown before construction.
See examples03Equipment and facilities that are easier to explain with something to point to.
See examples04Campuses with lift-off roofs and lighting that reveal power, cooling and network systems.
See examples05Cutaway and site models of reactors, solar and energy facilities.
See examples06Base, terrain, training and commemorative models from a veteran-owned shop.
See examples07Durable display models built to travel with your sales team.
See examples08Terrain, roads and buildings in one view.
See examples09Courses and golf communities shown in their landscape.
See examples10Landscapes, objects, systems and dioramas made for visitors.
See examples11Accurate site, building and mechanical models for trials and mediation.
See examples12Repairs, updates and restoration, including models built by other shops.
See examples
“Your team created a spectacular topography model for our company. The detail, the color, the stand – all exceeded our expectations. We are thrilled with every aspect of dealing with you and your company. Thank you so much.”
— Mike Adams, Director of Sales and Marketing, Big Sky Real Estate Company
We start with a conversation about who will use the model, where it will go and what you want people to understand. If you have drawings, those will be a big help in understanding your vision. If the idea is still taking shape, we are happy to start there with you.
How a project worksA proposal interview, a sales center and a museum display ask different things of a model. For Buena Vista’s school proposal, movable building blocks let the presenters change the arrangement during the interview. The Data Center model uses a lift-off roof and lighting to reveal systems visitors would not see on a tour. Our Mount St. Helens exhibit puts the terrain itself at the center of the display.
Start with the people who will see the model and the questions they need it to answer. Then consider the display space, viewing distance and whether the piece will travel. A physical model gives people the overview; drawings and renderings can explain individual spaces, finishes and technical details alongside it. Our planning resources cover those choices, and our production process explains how an idea becomes a finished display.
Custom physical scale models: architectural, real estate development, industrial and engineering, data center, energy, government and military, trade show, terrain, golf course, museum and litigation models, plus model repair.
Usually between $5,000 and $150,000. We price by shop time at about $5,000 per week and give every project a fixed-cost proposal.
Our shop is at 3889 Forest Street in Denver, Colorado. We serve clients across North America and internationally, and ship and install worldwide.
We guarantee every model arrives undamaged. Every shipment is insured, and if anything is damaged in transit, we repair it at no cost.
No. Plans, renderings, sketches or photos all help, and we can start while the design is still developing.
Share what the model needs to show and who it’s for, and we’ll help you think through scale, details and next steps.
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