3D printing changes design and building, thereby affecting architecture.

Though 3D printing technology has long been recognized, its reception in architecture has been very slow despite its immense opportunities. This has primarily to do with misinterpretation of its application and scope. Many people still perceive 3D printers as instruments for producing simple, small objects and wonder how such technology could assist a professional architect. After all, hand building models from basic materials is inexpensive and simple?