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House in Minnesota
3d visualization

Architectural 3d visualization: Minnesota house | Votproject year: 2022

Let's explore the process of working on an architectural 3D visualization project, illustrated through a small 1-story rendering of a house. In brief, the workflow can be categorized into three major stages:

  • 1.Collection and Processing of Information: This involves obtaining drawings of facades, house plans, or sketches.

  • 2.Modeling and Texturing: The house is modeled according to the provided drawing or sketch. The model is then presented to the customer for approval.

  • 3.Final 3d Visualization: This stage includes adjusting lighting, angles, and final settings to achieve the desired result.

Now, let's delve into these steps with greater detail:

1.Information Gathering Stage:

During this phase, we receive a plan drawing, facade, or sketch from the customer, depending on the project's readiness. Additionally, information about the location is obtained to assess whether modeling the surrounding buildings and considering landscape features is necessary. It is crucial to understand the project's goals, including gathering information about the materials used in the house. Reference images or examples, even from sources like Pinterest, can provide inspiration if there isn't an exact specification. These could be links to images for a better understanding of the desired mood and appearance. 

 

Clients can also share drawings or sketches, serving as examples for visualization. Even if all data is not available, clients are encouraged to send requests, and we can assist in performing a 3D exterior visualization with the provided information.

 

Moreover, this stage allows for making an accurate estimate of the project completion time as all details are clarified. Below are some examples of drawings and sketches that have been used for creating 3D renderings:

example drawing steps
architecture elevation drawing
20230212_LestreSketch

2.At the modeling stage:

The creation of a 3D model for your project begins, forming the basis for external 3D visualization. As a 3D rendering company, we utilize tools like Autodesk Revit, an optimal companion for efficient and accurate modeling.

The paramount objective in this step is to ensure the generation of a clean, conflict-free, and accurate 3D model, devoid of geometric issues that could lead to artifacts during the image rendering process. Moreover, clients have the flexibility to choose from various 3D modeling software options such as SketchUp, AutoCAD, Blender, or ArchiCAD. Some 3D artists may also prefer 3ds Max for modeling.

If you already possess a 3D model of the project, it can expedite this stage by simply transferring it in any convenient manner. We undertake a small organizational optimization of the model to align it with our workflow, reducing costs and speeding up the result delivery.

 

At this juncture, clients can provide feedback on the model, allowing for comments and adjustments to ensure the final rendering aligns precisely with their preferences. Here are some examples showcasing what the model looks like at the modeling stage.

perspective view house
Example revit model
axonometry view example

3.The final architectural 3D visualization stage:

is pivotal in our workflow. Here, we meticulously fine-tune the lighting, materials, and angles for the upcoming 3D rendering crafted by our 3D company.

Lighting holds significant importance in 3D visualization, and achieving a realistic and compelling rendering of the exterior demands a mastery of lighting techniques. Autodesk 3ds Max, paired with the Corona rendering engine, forms a dynamic combination to adjust lighting, create realistic shadows, and enhance the overall atmosphere. Additionally, V-ray rendering or other rendering engines compatible with various 3D software can also be employed. Our approach involves experimenting with diverse lighting angles and intensities to strike the perfect balance that highlights the unique features of your design.

 

It's important to consider whether a night setting will be used for the scene, as this requires special attention to interior models. Night scenes inherently reveal more interior details than daylight renderings, necessitating additional refinement to achieve the desired level of realism.

Materials To enhance the impact of your exterior 3D visualization, we carefully consider the role of materials. It's crucial to precisely define materials, ensuring an accurate representation of textures and surfaces in line with your project's vision. This high attention not only adds depth and authenticity to your rendering but also plays a pivotal role in achieving high-quality results.

 

We leverage extensive material libraries within the rendering company to breathe life into your designs. The precise distribution of materials is essential for creating photorealistic renderings that vividly capture the essence of your architectural vision.

 

Achieving high-quality external visualization is challenging without specialized materials, success largely hinges on expertise in setting up and fine-tuning key parameters. Factors like reflectance, terrain map roughness, material refraction, and the index of refraction (IOR) of preset materials significantly contribute to the visual appeal of your rendering.

 

Point of view The success of architectural 3D visualization often hinges on the selected perspective. Our company explores various angles to present the design in the most favorable light. It's crucial to consider the project's context and target audience. For a commercial development, emphasizing its presence in the urban landscape can be impactful. The right perspective has the potential to make your visualization more engaging and attractive.

We leverage our understanding of composition and proportion to achieve compelling angles. Familiarity with the principles of visual storytelling is also paramount. Each angle should contribute to the narrative, guiding the viewer's gaze and conveying the essence of your design.

Moreover, the strategic use of aerial views during rendering can be contemplated. Aerial perspectives offer a unique vantage point, providing a bird's-eye view of the entire scene. This approach can be particularly effective in conveying the spatial planning, environment, and overall grandeur of your architectural project. However, it's essential to note that incorporating aerial views entails a significant additional workload.

Refine, Refine, Refine: Employ Iterative Edits

 

Perfection is a gradual process. Following the initial rendering, take advantage of two additional rounds of editing. This iterative approach allows for fine-tuning details, rectifying imperfections, and ultimately reaching the desired level of excellence. Attention to detail during this stage has the potential to elevate your exterior 3D rendering from good to exceptional.

 

At this juncture,we have the opportunity to fine-tune the overall exposure. Adjusting elements like white balance can significantly impact the mood and atmosphere of your render. Depending on your vision, we can manipulate the white balance to create a warmer, more nostalgic ambiance or opt for a cooler, more modern vibe. Additionally, we consider sharpening and exploring advanced options to enhance specific aspects of your exterior 3D rendering.

 

It's essential to recognize that the real magic happens in these careful refinements. Each edit contributes to the cohesion and visual impact of your architectural rendering, ensuring that every detail aligns perfectly with your creative vision. Embrace the iterative process, as it is through refinement that your visualization transforms into an exceptional masterpiece.

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