Hobs Studio
Provides large-scale SLA 3D printing services for architectural and construction models, operating the UK's largest SLA printer and offering 3D scanning, visualization, and BIM consultancy.
- CEO / Founder
- James Duckenfield
- Team Size
- 51-200
- Stage
- Established
- Total Funding
- $14.3M
- Latest Round
- Venture Round
- Key Investors
- Business Growth Fund (BGF)
Technology & Products
Key Products
Large-scale SLA 3D printing; 3D laser scanning; Photorealistic CGI visualizations; AR/VR experiences; BIM consultancy; 3D printer reselling (3D Systems machines); File preparation and optimization services
Technological Advantage
Verified advantage: Largest SLA capacity in UK market with demonstrated record projects (Barking Riverside master plan, Northwest England map). Defensible through capital investment barriers and specialized expertise in large-format architectural printing.
Differentiation
Value Proposition
Reduces architectural model production time from weeks to days with overnight turnaround on standard models, enables creation of massive master plans (e.g., 3.6m x 2.6m x 1m) impossible with conventional methods, and provides expert file preparation that cuts processing time from all day to 2 hours.
How They Differentiate
3x larger build volume than standard industrial SLA printers (1500mm vs 500mm typical), specialized architectural model expertise vs general-purpose bureaus, and integrated 3D scanning/visualization services that competitors lack.
Market & Competition
Target Customers
Architects, engineers, construction firms, property developers, and AEC professionals requiring large-scale physical models and digital visualizations.
Industry Verticals
Architecture; Engineering; Construction; Property Development
Competitors
Brunered Industries; HP; MakerBot
Growth & Milestones
Growth Metrics
Parent company Hobs Group reported £35M annual turnover with Hobs Studio as fast-growing division; expanded from 2 to 4 UK studios (London, Manchester, Bristol, Glasgow) between 2014-2015.
Major Milestones
2012: Company incorporated; 2014: First BGF investment (£7M/$9.2M) for national roll-out; 2014: Second studio opened in London; 2015: Studios launched in Bristol and Glasgow; 2017: Additional £4M/$5.3M BGF investment; Record-breaking Barking Riverside master plan (3.6m model)
Notable Customers
Barking Riverside housing development; Architects and construction firms requiring large-scale master plans (specific names not disclosed in sources)