In the architectural world, we’re seeing designers producing more and more 3D printed models. Faster, more accurate, and very cool looking, these models are quickly becoming the go-to physical model for many architects that used to work with hand built or laser cut models.

We sat down with Théophile Paque from Studio Puisto – back in 2020 – to learn more about how they use Cetopo models in their 3D printing workflow.

“Cetopo is a great tool for the early stages of our projects. We use it to gather as much data as possible about a project’s site: 2D plans and 3D terrains and volumes. We use this data as a starting point for elaborating each project in its context, but also to use it as a base in project representation : 3D models, renders, axonometries or physical models. For many projects, we use the accurate data from Cetopo to build a printable 3D model for discussions with clients, officials, stakeholders, etc.”

Hotel and Spa in Saimaa, Finland

While developing their design for a new hotel and spa in Oravi, Studio Puisto wanted to position their proposal on a convincing physical 3D model, to best show how it would improve the area. Working in Autocad and Rhino, Théophile walked us through their workflow to achieve this with Cetopo’s models.

Step One – Getting the Data

When preparing to 3D print, Studio Puisto are only interested in Terrain, Buildings, Roads, and Trees, and so they created a template to include only these. Back in 2020 when we spoke to Theophile, Cetopo did not support .3dm road models, so these were added manually. Of course, these days this can be done with one instant download – and simply opened in Rhino.

Step Two – Roads

By combining Cetopo road models, which are based on Väylä’s dataset in Finland, with municipal data, Studio Puisto produce very detailed roads. At Cetopo we’re currently working on adding these municipal datasets to our algorithms, so the process below will be done for you automatically. 

Step Three – Buildings

Studio Puisto use Cetopo’s buildings as a basic form to then add more detail, as shown in the image below, which Théophile tells us is much quicker than building from scratch.

“We use (the buildings) general shape to remodel them, adding an extra level of detailing.”

Step Four – Adding the Design

The final step in this process is to add the design to the refined model, along with models of bridges, and piers, which must be built separately.

Step Five – Printing

Cetopo’s closed-mesh Rhino models are ready-to-print – which works really well for Studio Puisto. Look at what they produced with their in-house 3D printer! Have you tried 3D printing a Cetopo model yet?

“precise 3D printed models are a great tool to talk about a project”