Manhattan 3D Map: A Masterpiece in Miniature

Workjd
3 min readJul 24, 2024

--

Introducing the Manhattan 3D Map, a stunning 1:5000 scale 3D-printed map that captures the essence of one of the world’s most iconic cities. This meticulously crafted sculpture features every road, bike path, bridge, building, and highway in Manhattan, offering an unparalleled view of the cityscape. Updated in early 2024, this masterpiece includes the recently opened 1 Vanderbilt building and the soon-to-be-completed JP Morgan Tower.

Manhattan 3D Map

Dimensions and Craftsmanship

Measuring 48x72x5 inches, the Manhattan 3D Map stands out not only for its impressive size but also for its intricate details. The One World Trade Center and Central Park Tower both extend 5 inches from the wall, creating a dynamic, three-dimensional effect. Crafted using Amolen PLA, an additive-manufactured material made in California, this piece exemplifies the fusion of art and technology.

Easy Installation and Premium Frame

The sculpture comes with pre-mounted Z-Clips for easy hanging, ensuring a seamless installation process. It is framed in a free-floating shadowbox frame made in Michigan, adding a touch of elegance to any space.

Precision and Authenticity

Every building height in the Manhattan 3D Map is created using accurate 3D map data. Collaborating with freelance architects, the tallest and most iconic buildings have been meticulously modeled to showcase the unique architecture of the Manhattan skyline. The Hudson River, East River, and the lakes and reservoirs of Central Park are represented by stained white oak veneer, laser-cut to sub-millimeter precision and epoxied in place.

Customization Options

The Manhattan 3D Map can be customized to fit various sizes, ranging from 84x48 inches to 12x12 inches, depending on which parts of the map you wish to showcase. Whether you prefer a horizontal or vertical orientation.

Digital Sculptures

This map of the skyline is composed of a series of 10x10-inch custom-made 3D-printed digital sculptures. The material used is a resin that resembles marble, often mistaken for hand-carved stone. The 10–15 tallest and most famous buildings are modeled by professional architects using advanced 3D software, ensuring they are easily recognizable. The bulk of the data was sourced from OSM, an open-source 3D map of the world.

Exquisite Water Representation

The water bodies are depicted using locally sourced white oak rift veneer, stained blue with a distilled alcohol stain, and laser-cut to within a fraction of a millimeter precision. Special cutting files created using Blender perfectly correspond to the city layout. Each tiny piece of wood is then epoxied onto the 3D print, adding a touch of natural beauty to the sculpture.

Conclusion

The Manhattan 3D Map is more than just a representation of a city; it is a work of art that celebrates the intricate beauty of Manhattan’s skyline. Combining advanced 3D printing technology with meticulous craftsmanship, this piece is a testament to the enduring allure of New York City. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a city lover, or simply someone who appreciates fine art, the Manhattan 3D Map is a must-have addition to your collection.

--

--