How 3D printing impacts architecture industry

Some people may know that 3D printing has a profound effect on the field of manufacturing. Only a few people are aware that 3D printing is also revolutionizing other industries such as architecture industry.

Today, 3D printing has been hugely impacting the field of architecture. Designers and engineers can easily create structural models out from their imaginations. 3D printing allows architects to develop prototyping skills. Architects are also utilising this additive manufacturing method to help them from conceptualising and making iterations to actual construction.

Here are some of the few ways of how 3D printing is influencing the architectural industry.

Previewing early designs

Architects used to rely on traditional ways of constructing models such as CNC milling or laser cutting in order to see what the design will looks like in real life. But with 3D printing, these models become more accurate and easier to create.

As early as the designing stage, architects can have a tangible prototype of the design. Moreover, design errors and functionality problems can be detected before actual construction.

Showing finished designs to customers or for approval board

Finished design for a given structure or building must be presented to the client for approval. Others may also need to approve their design to the local government officials.

3D printing is very useful during this phase. Architects can create models that will convey a full visual of the design that they’ve made. Furthermore, clients can see what to expect in the building or structure. They can also easily change the design according to their preferences.

New designs and complex aesthetics in architecture

Due to the nature of this technology, engineers and architects can simply explore on creating new designs in architecture. Developers and engineers can also come up with innovative ways to create modern structures especially those with complex aesthetics.

Develop high-quality landscape prototypes

3D printers can produce high-quality architectural prototypes. Architects use these prototypes to clarify structural details especially interior designs.

Apart from that, architects can also create high-quality artefacts and larger print builds to convey precise structural elements.

Improves the efficiency of workflow

3D printing improves the efficiency of workflow for designers and architects. It allows faster and cheaper production of models. Extensive manufacturing skills are not required which gives architects design freedom.

• Faster and cheaper

The traditional way of making models is long and tedious. Usually, it will take 1-2 weeks to conceptualise and test the design and the another 2-3 months to see the final version. This results in higher cost and investment for just a single model.

On the other hand, 3D printing significantly cuts down the timeline for the conceptualisation and revision process. This will give the designers enough time to create models with high level of precision. Moreover, the cost will decrease by up to 75%.

• Easy to use with little to no manufacturing skills needed

With 3D printing, all you need is just the familiarity with the design guidelines and 3D software to get started. There is no need for extensive knowledge in model-making or fabrication.

• Design freedom

One of the advantages of 3D printing is the freedom to design and enhance creativity. Complex designs that cannot be easily visualised using traditional modelling techniques are now possible with 3D printing.

Use a range of materials

With the wide range of 3D printer filaments options, the possibilities in printing are endless. Whether printing with something that requires finer details or to incorporate other model-making methods, there is appropriate material that will work out.

For instance, to add a sense of elegance to the model, using different tones of white is possible. There is also a wide selection of finishes like wood or gloss to enhance the overall aesthetics of the model

Conclusion

3D printing combines the precision of computer simulation and tangibility of a scale model. This technology has allowed developers, engineers and architects to go beyond the limits of traditional design and building methods. Moreover, 3D printing has helped architects by saving time and money while increasing the value for clients.

If more information about 3D printing in required, you can ask for help from a 3D printing service company. They can also provide other 3D printing services such as 3D design and modelling, custom 3D printing, industrial 3D printing and many more.