Professional Scale Model Makers for Architecture, Marine, Oil & Gas, Industrial & Engineering Projects

Model pricing is determined by five primary factors: model scale and overall dimensions, complexity of the project, lighting, electronics or other features to integrate, order quantity and shipping destination.

For a better understanding, these are the factors we consider when estimating the price:

• Physical size of the model;
• Scale used (this determines the level of detail);
• Complexity of the original project;
• Order quantity (number of models);
• Materials;
• Extra features (lighting and electronics, moving mechanisms);
• Design of the presentation base;
• Protective enclosure (size, Perspex or glass);
• Packaging;
• Delivery destination;
• Required production schedule (standard or urgent 24/7 work).

Considering these variables, every scale model project receives its own technical and financial proposal. Proposals are sent to the client within 24 to 48 hours after the project is clearly defined and the blueprints are received.

The basic information needed to prepare a custom scale model quote is:

• Number of models to be manufactured;
• Size of the scale model(s) or scale(s) to apply to the design project;
• General arrangement blueprint (a 2D PDF file) to check the dimensions and complexity of the design;
• Any special requirement, such as LED lighting, powered mechanisms, a special model base design or digital developments;
• Shipping destination (for the transportation cost).

Every client receives 2 documents with the following information:

1. Technical proposal

• Objective;
• Detailed scope of the proposal;
• Work requirements from the client;
• Manufacturing methodology and stages;
• High-level project plan with the main milestones;
• Model dimensions;
• Examples of similar projects already executed (with photos);
• Other reference portfolio projects.

2. Financial proposal

• Prices;
• Payment terms and conditions;
• Warranty;
• Proposal validity.

Manufacturing timelines depend on the project scale, design complexity and number of units. Standard turnaround times range from 4 to 10 weeks for one model after CAD confirmation. Multiple models of the same design extend the time by 2 or 3 weeks, depending on the quantity.

Accelerated production schedules can be arranged for urgent exhibition deadlines.

After reviewing the project information, TNBuilt West provides a project-specific manufacturing schedule.

It depends on the display space and the detail you need. Larger scales show decks, furniture and interiors; smaller scales suit multiple copies and compact displays. We advise you in the proposal.

Scale selection depends on your available display footprint, viewing distance and required level of detail:

• 1:1 to 1:10 (ultra detailed): used for mechanical cutaway equipment displayed at trade show booths.
• 1:25 to 1:50 (high detail): ideal for superyachts and standalone luxury villas.
• 1:100 to 1:200 (medium scale): best for commercial high-rises, residential towers, cruise liners and FPSO vessels.
• 1:500 to 1:2000 (large footprint): designed for waterfront master plans, city districts, industrial refineries and seaports, where the overall spatial layout is the priority.

TNBuilt West scale models are delivered with:

• A model display base;
• A transparent acrylic protection cover;
• A metal technical plate;
• An air-freight case equipped with G-force safety indicators;
• LED lighting where specified.