Custom Raised Relief Maps by Summit

Considering a custom 3D map? For nearly two decades, Summit has specialized in designing and producing custom 3D raised relief thermoformed maps for a wide variety of customers and uses. Our portfolio includes projects for the National Park Service, vineyards and AVAs, military installations, large private properties, watershed management, seafloor bathymetry, and heli-ski areas. Some of these unique projects are proudly showcased in the example photos below.

Investment and Production Details

Please be aware that creating a new raised relief map requires a significant initial investment in design and tooling, typically ranging from $5,000 to $13,000. The exact cost depends on factors such as map size, complexity, and mold construction. Once the tooling and graphics are complete, the per-map cost drops significantly and is generally between $30 and $200 per map. Duplicates and future graphical updates are also economical, making this a practical, long-lasting solution for organizations ready to invest in impact. Optional mounting and framing services are available to enhance the presentation of your map.

Collaborative Customization Process

Throughout the development process, our team works in close partnership with clients to produce an exceptional custom 3D map of the specified location, area, or region. We can accommodate any scale and vertical relief within the capabilities of our production equipment, ensuring your vision is brought to life with precision and detail.

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Size Options, Popular Sizes, & Constraints

Summit’s production process allows maps with a 3D size of up to 50” x 35”. Popular sizes include: 20” x 13”, 30” x 20”, 40” x 28” and 50” x 35”. We can work with a wide range of scales within a given format. For example, using a 30” x 20” size format, the scale can be reduced to show an entire state, region or country. Or the scale can be increased to zoom into a particular property or small area of interest. If a size larger than 50” x 35” is needed, Summit can produce the map in separate panels that fit together for display.

Vertical Relief & Exaggeration

Depending on the scale and topography, 3D raised-relief maps normally have some degree of vertical exaggeration to better show the terrain relief. Summit can work with the customer to adjust the vertical exaggeration to the optimum value, providing easy interpretation of the terrain shape.

Graphic Design Options

Summit can take your existing 2D map and convert it to the 3D format (assuming it has an acceptable scale and size). Or, we can create the map graphics from scratch with your input for guidance. If we design the map, you can choose from a variety of approaches and styles:

Satellite/Aerial Imagery: High resolution color aerial imagery is available for much of the US and world. This often makes for a striking base layer for a custom 3D map, particularly when combined with vector graphic overlays showing roads, borders, geo features, and points of interest.

Illustrated Maps with Elevation Color Ramp: Beautiful illustrated maps can be created using elevation color ramps, which nicely complement the 3D shape. Summit can work with you to optimize the color scheme for your application. Custom vector graphics can then be layered on top showing roads, borders, towns, and point/geo features.

Topographic Line Contour Maps: Summit can also design maps using traditional topo contour lines (lines of equal elevation). This approach allows quick reference to determine precise elevation. Often, topo lines are combined with aerial imagery or illustrated map graphics.

Custom Graphic Overlays: Your custom geo data can be incorporated into the design as needed. We can accept geo data in most common GIS formats.

Mounting and Framing Options

We can deliver your custom 3D maps unmounted/unframed (think of a 3D poster) or mounted and framed, ready for wall display or tabletop use. Optionally, we can back the map with fiberglass/foam to provide rigidity to the surface and coat the map for use with dry erase markers.