Tokyo-based model-making company BENA has been producing architectural models since 1965, combining manual craftsmanship with evolving digital fabrication methods. Serving both domestic and international clients, the company focuses on precision, scalability, and the integration of emerging technologies. BENA’s Director, Teruaki Watanabe, explains in a recent interview how additive manufacturing has become a key part of their production process, especially in balancing traditional techniques with modern digital capabilities.
BENA employs several 3D printing methods, including stereolithography (SLA), fused deposition modeling (FDM), and binder jetting, depending on the requirements of each model. These technologies support the fabrication of detailed components that are later combined with laser-cut acrylic or other materials. Rather than printing entire models, BENA selectively uses additive manufacturing to produce elements where complex geometry, surface quality, or dimensional accuracy is critical.
Material selection is driven by technical performance: SLA resins offer fine detail with minimal visible layer lines, while FDM materials like ABS and PLA are chosen based on their bonding properties and stability. The team adjusts geometries and tolerances during the modeling phase to accommodate the specific characteristics of each printing process.
In addition to 3D printing, BENA also uses photogrammetric methods—image-based 3D scanning—to create accurate, full-color scale figurines. This technique reconstructs digital 3D models from multiple photographs taken from different angles. The company also integrates augmented reality (AR) to visualize elements such as energy flows or usage scenarios within the model. In this way, BENA expands the communicative potential of physical models in architectural contexts.
Insights from Teruaki Watanabe
In this interview with 3Druck.com, BENA Director Teruaki Watanabe discusses how the Tokyo-based company integrates 3D printing, AR, and other digital tools into the architectural model-making process. He shares insights into the evolving role of physical models in a digital age and explains how additive manufacturing supports precision, flexibility, and communication in complex design workflows.
From BENA’s perspective, how has the demand for physical architectural models evolved in today’s increasingly digital design environment?
Over the past five years, the use and role of architectural models have changed significantly. In Japan especially, as condominium sales offices have become more compact, there has been a noticeable shift toward using CG and digital content instead of physical architectural models.
On the other hand, for large-scale projects, there is a growing demand to make a strong visual impact, leading to more projects that feature “large-scale models taller than a person” or “vast site models.” Architectural models are still frequently used during the design process. While AR/VR can be helpful, these tools require specific devices and are not ideal for presenting to large groups at once. Physical models, however, can be viewed simultaneously by multiple people without any devices.
By considering “Who is the audience? In what format? How should the presentation be delivered?” digital tools and physical models can coexist effectively. Regardless of scale, the physical presence of a model allows viewers to intuitively grasp spatial composition and a sense of scale, making models an important tool for dialogue and consensus-building.
How are you integrating technologies like 3D printing and AR to modernize traditional architectural model making?
BENA has a long history with 3D printing, having introduced a stereolithography (SLA) machine as early as 1996. At that time, 3D CAD was not yet widely used, so we repurposed machines and software originally intended for manufacturing mobile phone molds to create scale models. Around the same period, we also adopted powder-based 3D printing (Binder Jetting) and undertook groundbreaking efforts for the time, such as 3D printing entire condominium models.
BENA President Takaaki Watanabe, Image: BENA
Over the past 30 years, we have implemented and utilized various types of 3D printing technologies, including Material Jetting and FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling). In recent years, the emergence of compact, affordable 3D printers capable of high-quality output has allowed us to expand the number of machines in use, significantly boosting productivity.
We have also begun using photogrammetry to scan human bodies and create full-color figurines. Tasks that once required specialized equipment can now be done more easily thanks to technological advancements. Additionally, we are incorporating AR as a new way to present models. Previously, models typically featured moving parts driven by motors or blinking LEDs to indicate flow.
With AR, we can now visualize invisible elements like energy and airflow or insert CG models of people into the scene to simulate work scenarios—greatly expanding the possibilities of what scale models can communicate.
How is additive manufacturing influencing the way you approach model design, material selection, or detail resolution in complex architectural projects?
In the case of architectural models, it is rare for them to be made entirely through 3D printing. Most models are created by combining 3D-printed components with laser-cut acrylic parts. Since the methods for producing these parts differ, we carefully adjust the dimensions to ensure proper fit and precision when assembling the model.
Material selection is based on a comprehensive evaluation of the advantages and disadvantages of each option. For SLA, resin offers the benefit of less noticeable layer lines; however, it requires additional post-processing such as cleaning, and bonding with acrylic can be challenging. For FDM, ABS is easy to process and bonds well with acrylic, but it is prone to warping due to temperature changes, making it less suitable for long print durations. PLA (Polylactic Acid) is strong but not ideal for sanding or painting. We choose materials according to the model specifications and the nature of the work involved.
Regarding the reproduction of fine details, there is a common misconception that “as long as you have 3D data, you can easily create small models with a 3D printer.” As readers of this article will understand, it is essential to make various adjustments depending on the specifications of the 3D printer—such as refining the diameter of rods and the thickness of walls, closing small holes, or removing unnecessary internal structures.
In particular, when adjusting thickness and diameter, we make scaling modifications within a range that does not compromise the design intent of the original. In some cases, we substitute parts with alternative materials, such as brass rods, for enhanced precision and structural integrity.
Looking ahead, how do you see the role of physical models and hybrid digital tools like AR evolving in architecture and urban planning over the next 5–10 years?
Ten years ago, the idea of combining architectural models with AR was unimaginable for BENA. Today, with the widespread adoption of smartphones, tablets, and wearable devices, AR has become easily accessible to everyone. From the perspective of creators, tools like the Unity game engine have made it possible to develop digital content—something that once felt distant and unattainable.
Looking ahead to the next five to ten years, a potential threat to physical models may be the emergence of holograms. If the kind of holograms depicted in movies and video games becomes miniaturized and commonplace within the next decade, it could mark a turning point—a crisis—for traditional models.
However, just as we have successfully integrated AR with physical models, we believe that incorporating holograms in a complementary way can further enhance the quality of the experience. For instance, imagine a condominium model where holograms illustrate scenes of daily life, or a stadium model where an actual football match is projected. We see great potential in the fusion of analog and digital technologies.
At BENA, we will continue to embrace the evolution of architecture and urban development alongside emerging technologies. A model is not merely a miniature; it is a vital tool for conveying the essence of space, connecting people, and sharing the vision of a city’s future. We believe in this significance and will continue to craft each model with care and dedication.
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