Architectural visualization involves producing visual representations of architectural designs and concepts with computer-generated graphics. Sketches and drawings are the foundation of every successful architectural idea but we can all agree that not all clients understand them which is where the need for architectural visualization comes in – to help express ideas to the client and give them a glimpse into ‘what can be’.
To excel in architectural visualization, you will need a combination of technical and creative skills. The process requires skills that are needed to take presentations to another level by combining a series of modeling, texturing, lighting configurations, renderings, and post-production steps to generate output. Each stage requires specialized software, technical expertise, and creative skills to achieve the desired outcome.
The following are some of the essential steps involved in creating compelling architectural visualizations –
THE BRIEF
This is where we get to learn about the client’s expectations and requirements. The details contained in the brief direct the design process and give the architect an insight into the client’s perspective. Understanding the brief mean you are fully aware of what your client wants even if you wish to get creative with the implementation.
Sketches
The sketch is the base from where the work kicks off after putting the ideas together. It is where you get to initially express your mental visualization by defining the layout and organizing the details which depend on the type and purpose of the space. For architects, creating an exciting architectural animation requires a lot of effort, time, and attention – from right from the moment an idea pops. So the initial sketch is a very important aspect of the process.
MODELING
The first stage of architectural visualization is modeling. It involves creating a 3D digital representation of the architectural design using computer-aided design (CAD) software or building information modeling (BIM) software. This stage requires technical expertise to accurately create the geometry of the building, including its shape, size, and structure.
TEXTURING
The next stage of architectural visualization is texturing. It involves applying materials and textures to the 3D model, such as concrete, glass, wood, and metal. This stage requires creative skills to choose the appropriate materials and textures that accurately represent the real-world materials used in the building.
With tools like 3dsMax, which have already existing material libraries, it makes it easier to simulate near-realistic textures. Refining the sketch into 3d includes actions such as simplifying the geometry and ensuring that the architecture fits with the basic frame of the landscape. Testing out the cameras from all angles, defining the shadows and level of distortion, placing the after-effects, and simulating the colors.
LIGHTING
The lighting stage involves setting up the lighting conditions for the 3D model. This includes choosing the right type of lighting, such as natural or artificial lighting, and adjusting the intensity, color, and position of the lights to create the desired mood and atmosphere. This stage requires a good understanding of lighting principles and how light interacts with different materials.
RENDERING
Rendering is the process of generating the final 2D image or animation from the 3D model. It involves converting the 3D model into a 2D image or animation by applying lighting, shadows, reflections, and other visual effects. This stage requires a powerful computer and specialized software to render the high-resolution images and animations required for architectural visualization.
post-production
The final stage of architectural visualization is post-production. It involves editing the rendered images and animations to enhance their visual appeal and communicate the design ideas more effectively. This may involve adding special effects, adjusting colors and contrast, adding text or labels, and adding backgrounds or context to the images or animations. For animations, you can simulate the real-life footage from the drone capture and the camera shots, match the actual render to the footage, and create an overlay of the various components.
More post-production steps include multiplying the shadow effects, and carrying out a more detailed adjustment on the color balance and levels, grading the colors to improve the depth of the render. The scale is also another important feature in this aspect and requires that only the relevant details should be included within the scale.
FINAL TIPS ON HOW to improve visualization quality
- Use reference photos or mood boards to create ideas and benchmark a final expected output. You can now use AI prompts and tools such as MidJourney AI.
- Take time to compose your animated objects and people, pay attention to the environment and the atmosphere you wish to create, and make the movement and spatial interaction realistic enough to add life to your work.
- The people give essence to the projection so you want to get the right context given the purpose of the space. Pay attention to how they integrate and interact with the environment.
- Practice – quality architectural Visualization requires dedication because there is a high probability to get better each time you create a design.
An outstanding visualization is only achieved when valuable time is committed to the project and sufficient attention is paid to the details. In conclusion, architectural visualization is a complex and multi-stage process that requires technical expertise, creative skills, and specialized software.
By creating photorealistic or conceptual 3D images, animations, and virtual reality experiences, architects and other professionals can effectively communicate their design ideas to clients and stakeholders, and ultimately bring their designs to life.