Launched in the Nordics in 2020 and expanded to the UK and Netherlands in 2023, Cetopo has garnered thousands of satisfied users. Its primary goal is to save architects time by automatically compiling essential site information and providing it instantly in an easy-to-use package. This feature is particularly useful for large-scale masterplanning projects, where compiling vast amounts of information can be challenging.
In this article, we will explore the key benefits of using Cetopo for masterplanning and large-scale design projects, highlighting its features and tools that help you work more accurately and efficiently.
Key Benefits for Masterplanning
Cetopo offers numerous advantages for masterplanning and urban design projects, from cost efficiency to lightweight models. To summarize, with Cetopo, you can:
- Save time compiling information; get 3D models in minutes.
- Work with highly accurate models; terrain accuracy is ±0.15m.
- Work efficiently with lightweight models; optimized to run natively.
- Work across multiple software platforms; enjoy unlimited downloads within projects.
- Effortlessly visualize designs; with realistic tree models and orthophoto layers.
- Collaborate easily with stakeholders; use Cetopo’s preview tool to explore potential sites.
Efficiency throughout the design process
In many masterplanning projects, tight budgets and deadlines make it crucial to work with accurate site information and avoid wasting time on data compilation.
With Cetopo, all the information you need is at your fingertips. Using the intuitive map interface, simply select the area you want to access, choose a template (for SketchUp, Archicad, Revit, etc.), and download. Cetopo compiles 2D and 3D information on buildings, terrain, roads, trees, and water into fully editable models for use in your preferred software—within minutes.
Additionally, you can configure and preview your model before downloading to ensure everything is as expected and in the exact format you need (e.g., building model colors, or roads as toposolids vs. masses in Revit). This feature is a significant time saver compared to manually modeling the site. The added benefit of geolocation allows for easy integration of additional layers of information later in the project, such as detailed independent site surveys.
Using an accurate model as a design tool also facilitates iterative design, making it easier to make small adjustments as you go. Many of our customers find that starting projects with Cetopo models streamlines the entire design and urban planning process, making it quicker, easier, and much less of a headache.
Enhanced Accuracy and Detail
Understanding your site—particularly its terrain and levels—is crucial to avoiding costly mistakes later in the design process. Cetopo’s topography models offer an impressive ±0.15m accuracy level, more than sufficient for masterplanning projects, ensuring that you won’t need to worry about non-compliant road gradients months down the line.
Cetopo models significantly reduce the risk of human error when compiling a base site model. While many programs, like Revit, feature topography tools, they can be cumbersome to use, and mistakes might not be noticed until it’s too late—especially on large sites where manually checking elevation points against a survey is impractical.
Moreover, Cetopo models are optimised to run quickly and have small file sizes. By generating models composed of elements native to your software and focusing detail on areas with the most terrain variation, Cetopo ensures smaller, more efficient models compared to competitors.
Visualisation and Collaboration
When proposing masterplans, it’s important that all stakeholders clearly understand the project. Whether you’re meeting with clients, councillors, or local residents, you may encounter people who struggle to grasp a 2D CAD plan. Visualisations, especially those including local landmarks, are invaluable in helping laypeople orient themselves within a proposal.
Thanks to Cetopo’s small file sizes, you can produce renderings quickly and easily with real-time rendering engines like Enscape or Twinmotion.
Cetopo also offers additional visualisation features. You can easily replace generic tree models with Enscape assets or .rpc families in Revit, adding realism to your models. The included orthophoto layer, draped over the terrain, further enhances viewers’ ability to locate themselves and understand the proposal.
Cetopo’s preview feature allows you to explore potential sites in real-time with your client. Simply enter an address, and you can view an accurate model of the site in seconds—a useful tool for discussing ideas or exploring sightlines and design opportunities.
Cost Effectiveness and Project Planning
Given tight budgets, it’s essential to avoid unnecessary costs and ensure that your design team isn’t wasting time on tasks below their expertise. Cetopo saves money by reducing the hours spent modeling the site and adds efficiency at many key design stages.
Cetopo’s efficiency can also streamline project timelines and help you allocate budgets more effectively. With the scope for human error greatly reduced, your team can work more confidently and effectively, resulting in better designs and a more cohesive built environment.
Cost savings will multiply as you incorporate Cetopo into your workflow for more projects. Pricing is project-based, and users can benefit from bulk discounts. The more you use Cetopo, the more you’ll save!
Further Reading
Learn more about how our customers use Cetopo below, particularly in larger scale projects: