Architects and builders rely on professional model building services to see what their projects might look like after they've made the transition from two-dimensional drawings to real-world bricks and mortar. An architectural model supplies you with an up-close look at both the details of your project and its big-picture footprint.

Model building companies can make simpler, roughed-out versions of an overall building, or they can create a highly detailed model that shows everything from shingles to light switches.

Before you hire a custom model building service to create your professional scale model, determine what kind of model you need:

1. Exterior models show you an entire building, showing how it will look in a skyline, how it will interact with its environment or even just how it fits into a surrounding subdivision.

2. Interior models show what's inside your building project. Interior models will have walls and doorways at the very least, and they can include decor and interior design options, too.

3. You can't pick up and hold 3-D virtual models, but they can effectively represent your building project with as much detail as you require.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find model building companies that build exterior models

Companies that specialize in exterior architectural models can work with you to create models that are large or small, rough or finished. Find a model builder that specializes in the type of project you'll be building; if you're designing houses for a real-estate development, a firm that builds stadium and skyscraper models might not be the right way to go.

I recommend: Southern Model creates exterior architectural models. The company can make table-size scale models, in addition to massive 12-foot models that give your clients an up-close look at the proposed building project. RedEye ARC makes detailed plastic architectural models for home builders, giving them the tools they need to sell their homes to potential buyers.

Consider a professional model building firm that builds custom interior models for inside views

If you need to visualize your building project from the inside, hire an interior model builder. These companies can create scale models of every room in your building. You can add details, such as furnishings, to give your model a finished feel.

I recommend: Architectural Models makes both interior and exterior models to help you see what the final project will look like. Howard Architectural Models builds interior models for large-scale building projects.

Take a look at a virtual professional scale model if you don't need a tangible scale model

Services for model building aren't limited to the real-world variety. Many 3-D modeling companies can make detailed virtual models with stunning visuals and absolute accuracy.

I recommend: WhiteBirch Studios does interior and exterior 3-D modeling that's lifelike enough to fool you into thinking you're looking at photographs rather than 3-D renderings. Heartwood Studios creates high-quality 3-D stills for real estate developments, sports arenas and even aerospace projects.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you choose to make a virtual model rather than commissioning a real-world model, you still have options for creating a physical model of your building. Printers that are 3-D can take your Computer Aided Design renderings and 'print' a copy of your project.