Site Models and Massing Models for Architects
Layered contour site models and basswood or chipboard massing models, cut from your layer files. A local option near Austin now that MakeATX has closed.
Layered wood disc with fine cloud engraving
What to send for a contour or massing model
Send DXF, AI or SVG with one layer per board. Use closed polylines for every cut so each piece drops out cleanly, and keep score or engrave lines on their own layer. Tell us the contour interval and model scale so we can match board thickness to your layer height, or name the board you want and we'll work out the layer count. Each sheet can be up to 36 × 18 in (915 × 458 mm), so larger site bases are split into tiles.
What this usually looks like
A landscape architecture firm wrote to us after MakeATX closed. They had the layer files for a to-scale chipboard site model and nobody local left to cut it. That's the job this page is about. You send the layers, we cut every contour and massing piece on our 80W CO₂ laser, and you decide whether we assemble the model or your team does.
This page is for you if…
- Architects and design studios who need physical models for client reviews
- Landscape architects with topography and contour layers ready to cut
- Model makers who want laser time without owning a laser
- Former MakeATX customers looking for a local cutter
What we can do
- Cut chipboard, basswood, birch plywood, MDF and acrylic
- Stack contour layers for site and topography models
- Cut massing blocks, building footprints and base plates
- Engrave or score reference lines, grid marks and labels
- Assemble the model, or ship it as flat-packed layers
What we can't do
- Cut PVC or vinyl sheet. It releases chlorine gas under a laser
- Cut a single piece larger than 36 × 18 in. Bigger bases are tiled
- Cut wood thicker than about 20 mm or acrylic thicker than about 25 mm
- Hold openings too narrow for the board to survive handling. We flag these before cutting
Work People Have Actually Asked Us For
Paraphrased from real quote requests, with client details removed.
To-scale chipboard site model for a landscape architecture firm
The firm already had every layer file. They usually hand cutting and assembly to the fabricator, and were open to working out together how the model goes together.
Folded white-board mock-up from a DXF
A studio sent an unfolded DXF for a small semi-cube mock-up and asked for a board stiffer than chipboard that could still be scored and folded.
How We'd Run Your Project
Send your layer files, the model scale, the contour interval and your deadline.
We check the files (closed paths, one layer per board) and confirm the board and a firm price.
Every layer is cut on the 80W CO₂ laser, with reference lines or labels engraved if you want them.
We assemble the model at $25 per hour, or pack the layers flat. Free pickup in Dripping Springs, or $15 flat shipping in the USA.
What Projects Like Yours Usually Run
Rates below assume 10+ units with standard logo or design elements.
Design & prototyping
1–5 test runs, up to 2 hours of studio time
$50 – $100
Typical spend: Machine time plus material, plus assembly at $25 per hour if you want it built. Firm price once we've seen your layer files. See the full rate card →
How We Usually Work Together
Beyond a single order — the arrangements that fit this kind of work.
Prototype to production partner
Start with a handful of test pieces, iterate on material and finish, then scale into repeat batches with the same setup and the same tolerances.
Overflow & capability partner
You already own a laser but need full-color UV printing, fiber metal marking, 3D crystal engraving, or extra capacity during a rush. We slot into your workflow.
Questions We Get From This Group
What file formats do you need for a site model?
DXF, AI or SVG, with one layer per board and closed polylines for every cut. PDF and EPS also work for cut lines.
Full answer in our FAQ →Which board thicknesses can you cut?
Chipboard, basswood, birch plywood, MDF and acrylic. Our CO₂ laser cuts wood up to about 20 mm and acrylic up to about 25 mm. Tell us your contour interval and scale and we'll match the board to your layer height.
Full answer in our FAQ →How much does a massing model cost?
It's machine time plus material, plus assembly at $25 per hour if you want us to build it. Send the layer files and you get a firm price before we start.
Full answer in our FAQ →How long does a site model take?
New jobs usually take 3–5 business days after file approval. Larger multi-sheet models can take 1–2 weeks, and we confirm the date with your quote.
Full answer in our FAQ →Do the layers ship assembled?
Your choice. We can assemble the model at $25 per hour, or pack the cut layers flat for your team to glue. Pickup in Dripping Springs is free by appointment, and shipping is $15 flat in the USA, with oversized models quoted separately.
Full answer in our FAQ →Other Projects We Handle
Etsy & handmade sellers
You're selling faster than you can hand-cut and hand-paint. We take over production without touching your brand.
Product founders & prototypes
Test the idea with 5 pieces before you commit to 5,000. Then scale with the same shop and the same tolerances.
Corporate branding & promo
Your logo, permanently printed on the things people actually keep — bottles, coolers, notebooks, keychains, and plates.