Design Services

Architectural Plastics provides design support for plastic, wood and metal fabrication projects from early concept through production-ready execution. We work with architects, exhibit designers, builders, brands, museums, and engineering teams who need clean aesthetics, reliable manufacturability, and consistent results at scale.

Whether you’re starting with a sketch or a full drawing set, our team helps refine geometry, select materials, and define build details so the final product looks right and fabricates correctly.

Concept Analysis and Feasibility

Most projects start with an idea. Our job is to pressure-test that idea early so you don’t waste time and money later.

We help with:

• Material selection and performance tradeoffs (clarity, impact, scratch resistance, UV, stiffness)

• Structural approach (panel thickness, spans, support strategy, fastening)

• Access and service planning (doors, lift-off, removable panels, maintenance)

• Finish targets (optical edges, flame polish vs machine polish, seam strategy)

• Budget and risk flags (what will drive cost, lead time, or failure)

CAD Modeling and Design Development

We convert concepts into clear, buildable designs and shop-ready documentation.

Capabilities include:

• CAD modeling and design development using Autodesk tools, SketchUp and Cabinet Vision

• Dimensional layouts, shop drawings, and build details for fabrication and installation

• Coordination of interfaces with other trades (metal, electrical, GC field conditions)

• Revision control as the design evolves

Prototyping and Iteration

When the finish level, fit, or function matters, prototyping saves you. We build prototypes to validate the design before committing to production.

Typical prototype goals:

• Confirm proportions and sightlines (especially for display systems)

• Validate access, hardware, and serviceability

• Test seams, edge finishing, and visual performance

• Prove mounting strategy and load behavior

• De-risk assembly sequence before production

Design for Manufacturing and Production Support

A design that looks good but can’t be built consistently is a liability. We design with fabrication reality in mind so production is repeatable and deadlines are predictable.

We support:

• Design-for-manufacturing for CNC machining and repeat builds

• Seam strategy and panelization for larger assemblies

• Tolerance planning and fit-up strategy for multi-part systems

• Assembly design for multi-material builds (plastic + wood + metal)

• Packaging and shipping considerations for finished, high-value components

Materials and Processes We Work With

We design and fabricate primarily in plastics and wood, with multi-material integration when needed.

Common materials and processes include:

• Acrylic (PMMA), polycarbonate, ABS, Corian, HDPE, Type-1 PVC, UHMW & more composites

• CNC routing and machining of plastic parts

• Bonded assemblies and clean seam execution

• Thermoforming organic or curved shapes when geometry requires it

• Polishing and finish work for presentation-grade results

• Integration with mdf, veneered plywood, solid wood and metal components for installation-ready systems

Who This Is For

This page is for teams who need design support that actually connects to fabrication.

Typical clients include:

• Architects and interior designers specifying premium plastic elements

• Museums and exhibit teams designing display systems

• Brands and retail teams building fixtures and installations

• OEMs and product teams needing machined plastic parts and assemblies

• Builders coordinating integrated, installation-ready deliverables

• Homeowners, private clients and collectors

What To Send for a Fast Start

To move quickly, send any of the following:

• A sketch, photo reference, or inspiration images

• Overall dimensions and any must-hit constraints

• Quantity (one-off, small run, or repeat production)

• Deadline and ship-to city

• Any drawings or existing CAD files (if available)

FAQs

Can you start from a rough idea or sketch?

Yes. That’s common. We’ll translate it into buildable geometry and clear fabrication intent.

Do you only do design, or do you fabricate too?

We do both. Design is most valuable when it leads directly into production-ready execution.

What software do you work in?

We commonly work in Autodesk tools, SketchUp, and Cabinet Vision. If your team has a preferred format, send what you have and we’ll align where possible.

Can you support prototypes and then scale to production runs?

Yes. That’s a core use case. The goal is repeatability, not just a one-off.