Architectural 3d rendering is cutting-edge method used for creating visual representations of residential or commercial building designs with the aid of specialised computer modelling software. Since the early 2000s architectural artist impressions have become increasingly immersive and realistic with the constantly evolving and improving technologies. In recent times, high quality 3d renders produced by expert studios have become completely indistinguishable from real life photography.
How does it Work?
Architectural 3d modelling and rendering is a highly technical process that requires the use of the latest most powerful computer hardware since the calculations required to create the imagery are very CPU and GPU intensive. The work of building the 3d models and lighting simulations is done with specialised software like Autodesk 3dsmax, Vray or Corona renderer for the modelling and rendering stage, while programs like Adobe Photoshop or After Effects are typically used for final retouching of the computer generated still imagery or animated sequences.
While some people are under the illusion that the computer does all the work and the 3d artist has to merely press a few buttons, this is far from the truth. It takes years to master expert used of the software and it is also essential for the artist to become proficient in reading technical drawings, architectural design practices, interior design and styling trends, landscape design and local construction methods. The 3d artist must also hone their photography skills, enabling them to set up quick and effective composition and lighting solutions that will show off the architectural concepts from the best possible angle.
The general stages involved in producing architectural 3d visualisations include the following steps:
- The process begins by importing digital architectural floor plans and elevation drawings into the specialist 3d software. The artist will trace these 2-dimensional technical drawings and create a 3d model of the proposed external structure or the internal space. This will include creating models of doors, windows, cabinets, roofing, proposed site works and any other architectural detail.
- Once the base 3d model is constructed in the virtual space, the artist will apply colors and realistic textures to the geometry, as per the specifications of the proposed design. This may include brick and concrete textures to the external walls, reflective glass and metal finishes to the windows and railings, or timber and tile finishes to interior floor boards and bathrooms.
- The final step of completing the 3d modeling stage is scene population. This involves adding realistic 3d models of plants, furniture, bathroom fittings, lighting fixtures and decorative styling accessories. Most visualization studios will usually have vast libraries of such 3d asset collections that have been pre-purchased from specialist suppliers.
- Once the modeling stage is complete, the artist will set up camera compositions from various angles, showing off different parts of the architectural concept. The angles will often depend on the client’s request for specific views of the project i.e. a close-up of the front facade, a shot of the bathroom, or a view of the kitchen.
- One of the final steps in the visualization process involves setting up the lighting simulation by placing special types of light emitters within the 3d model space. This will greatly impact the final appearance of the artwork, determining the mood and appearance. Artists will have to make a decision on whether to set up a day time or an evening composition, the brightness and warmth of the sun, the length of the shadows, and other ambient lighting features.
- The most exciting stage takes is now ready to take place, initializing the 3d rendering process! This is where the software will run lighting and material simulation calculations to build shadows, reflections and global illumination effects, resulting in the output of the final photo-realistic, computer generated image. The artist will often run this rendering process many times in order to make tweaks and adjustments to lighting and material settings, as well as swapping out certain elements such as furniture and plants as per the client’s requests.
- To finish off the process some additional retouching and post-production will be applied to the artwork for a polished appearance. Artists will use image editing software like Photoshop to perform color correction, increase brightness and contrast, as well as adding small touches like light bloom and depth of field effects.
Advantages of 3d Rendering
Computer generated visualisation has become a very important tool in the field of architectural design development and digital marketing. It enables property developers, architects and designers to create and refine a specific design concept in a very precise way with complete confidence in the end result.
This powerful technology makes it possible to create photo-realistic exterior representations of any building design prior to laying its foundation, while vibrant interior 3d renders show off internal spaces and finishes. This greatly helps in areas of estimation and optimisation of costs, as well as finalizing construction specifications and having the opportunity to upscale or downscale certain design features. Another added bonus of visualizing an architectural project in virtual 3d space is the detection of potential design flaws and discrepancies that may not have been obvious on the blueprint technical drawings.
Architectural 3d renders also greatly benefit property developers by enabling them to start marketing and selling their vision to prospective home owners and investors months or even years before construction of the development is completed.
Companies like Australia based visualization studio Cleanpix Graphics specialize in creating computer generated marketing and lifestyle artwork for the real estate, architecture and property development industries. Over the years they have developed excellent working relations with some of Australia’s leading architects, designers, property developers and real estate agents, working with clients to deliver 3d rendering services in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and other capital and regional centres across the country.
Conclusion
3d visualization is a great means to impress your potential customers, refine architectural design concepts and boost the performance of your sales and marketing campaigns. Hire an experienced 3d rendering service provider to get the full benefits of this unique service.
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