This research explores the enlightenment on the design conceptualization and visualization in digital architecture.This study uses 3D models as the main source of data,taking the process of design development as its object.A rapid prototyping(RP) technology is used for 3D color output of design models.The substantiated digital models are used as an important media in design interaction.It is found from the study that RP models were an important media in connecting the virtual world and the real world.Designers could verify their intentions and thus increase efficiency by switching between both worlds.The surface attributes of components and the characteristics of architectural spaces could be merges with images,as a way to extend the freedom in the declaration of a surface's appearance.The large amount of design information can be simplified by explicit visualizing design data.