Having the right skills and tools is essential when trying to get ahead in the world of digital design. Architects, engineers, and interior designers all rely upon 3D models to help conceptualize and visualize structures such as buildings.
Clients are often more receptive to architectural modeling, as the human brain processes visual content 60,000 times faster than text. That’s why it’s important to know how to use 3D architectural modeling software properly so you can engage clients with a clear representation of what a finished construct may look like. In this article, you’ll learn exactly what 3D architectural modeling is used for and what you’ll need to get started as a 3D architectural designer.
What Is 3D Architectural Modeling?
Creating architectural models in 3D worlds allows you to visually communicate ideas, concepts, and proposed designs with realistic elements and details. A 3D architectural model can help to design a 3D world and elements such as buildings, bridges, and parks.
Benefits of 3D architectural modeling:
- Testing: 3D architectural modeling helps you identify design flaws and build lifelike models to validate them.
- Save money and time: Play around with new ideas, revise and refine the details of a project prior to building.
- Add realism: Creating 3D worlds allow you to add realism to a client’s design ideas. You can add lighting, greenery, and fine-tuned embellishments to generate an engaging experience and help clients picture every aspect of their idea.
What Is 3D Architectural Modeling Used For
Architectural models are mainly used in the construction and real estate industries by utilizing 3D architectural modeling software to create a new structure or renovate an existing building.
Another common use of 3D architectural modeling is to showcase real estate that may not be completed through the use of virtual tours and walk-throughs, allowing investors and future buyers to preview the building.
What You Need to Start as a 3D Architectural Modeler
A 3D Architectural Modeler is a career that requires certain skills such as spatial awareness and an ability to understand measurements. Furthermore, it involves a lot of planning, as you’re essentially designing a structure that will be replicated in the real world.
Whether you’re thinking of working freelance or within a company, there are a few important steps to consider. Here, you’ll find helpful tips to help you on your way to becoming a 3D architectural modeler. Choose Design Software
There’s a variety of digital software available for you to choose from, but it’s important to choose software that suits your needs.
Some of the choices are 3DS Max, AutoCAD, and SketchUp, all providing their own benefits. If you’re a beginner, you may want to consider using SketchUp, as it is the simplest modeling software and is often a popular choice for students. With SketchUp, you can create geometric shapes quickly and easily; the software is very user-friendly and comes packed with a library of pre-built models. Choose Rendering Software
Rendering software helps to make your models look more detailed and pretty to ensure your model looks its best. Some design applications come with built-in rendering. However, programs like 3DS Max and AutoCAD use the mental ray® rendering engine to create materials, lighting, and a photorealistic environment.
If you’re still learning, a build-in rendering engine will suit your needs. However, for presenting models professionally, it’s highly recommended to integrate rendering software such as V-Ray into your design software.
Learn the Basics
Now that you’ve chosen the software you’re going to use, it’s time to play around with the software and learn aspects such as building a shape, changing its color, and experimenting with different textures.
Take Professional 3D Architectural Modeling Courses
Teaching yourself can only get you so far, so if you're serious about 3D architectural modeling, it may be a good option for you to take a professional course.
Two important aspects to consider are what it is that you want to learn and the design software that it entails. The second important factor to consider is where you will be taking the course, will it be online or within an institute? It will require some research on your part to discover what suits your aptitude and lifestyle best.
To start on your next architecture and design project, or to chat with someone in the business, contact a professional 3D Architectural Modeler from the Fiverr marketplace today.
