Connecting theoretical models for exotic quantum states to real materials is a key goal in quantum materials science.  The structure of the crystalline lattice plays a foundational role in this pursuit in the subfield of quantum material synthesis.  We here revisit this long-standing perspective in the context low dimensional emergent electronic phases of matter, including the realization of model two-dimensional topological and correlated electronic phenomena.  Along the way, we discuss how to define a quantum material, and how this definition has evolved in recent years. Finally, we comment on the perspective for realizing further two-dimensional model systems in complex material structures and connections to new paradigms for programmable quantum matter.