3D rendering can be very helpful in visualizing and designing the exterior of a building project. It allows architects, designers, and developers to create a realistic, computer-generated image of the building’s exterior design before construction begins. Using 3D rendering, different design options can be explored and compared in terms of aesthetics, functionality, and feasibility. It can help identify potential design flaws, allowing for adjustments to be made before construction begins. Additionally, architectural visualization can be used to create visual representations of the building’s exterior design for presentations to stakeholders, investors, and potential buyers.
Ryan from Murfey Company is planning to build an 8-story apartment on Fifth Avenue, San Diego, California, USA. Thus, to ensure the building’s exterior design meets the desired aesthetic and functional goals while also addressing any practical considerations such as zoning regulations and building codes, AIMIR created three exterior renders for this apartment. Now, let’s take a tour to see the process of visualizing this structure.
3D Rendering Process for Secoya Apartment
#Stage 1: Briefing
Secoya apartment is a new way of living. It is an iconic, 8-story, 100 unit community of modern apartment homes located less than one block from Balboa Park. On the ground floor, retail and amenity spaces provide convenience living for all residence. Despite its density of over 400 units per acre, Secoya contains a variety of common areas for residents to enjoy including a landscaped courtyard, spa, and rooftop terrace.
Requested by Ryan, we needed to create three renders for this apartment. They are:
A street view of the overall building. Should be the same as the render draft our client did before;
A view looking at the building heading north on Fifth Ave;
A view heading west on Redwood Street.
That’s basically a render package to demonstrate the structure from different angles.
At the same time, more information were provided to help our 3D team understand this structure more. We’ve received:
A SketchUp model.
The site plan. This is to help get an overall idea of the site, including the location, property boundaries, easements, and landscaping arrangement.
Mood references. Ryan typically listed the atmosphere he wanted for each of the images. He described clearly the time, season, sky, lights, and other activities in the images.
Floor plans. They provide detailed drawings that show the layout of this apartment. In this way, we know the arrangement and dimensions of rooms, windows, and other features.
Elevations. These exterior views are clear visual representations of the building appearance design.
Landscape plan. Especially, Ryan shared the plant schedule that he emphasized on some of the plants to be showed in the images.
#Stage 2: 3D Modeling
The SketchUp model had elevated the modeling process a lot. Although it cannot be used directly, we saved time creating the model. So, what we did was to input the model into 3ds Max, and fine-tune it. During the process, our 3D modeler needed to remake the geometry, such as a missing face or flipped normal. Anyway, a SketchUp model saves time in 3D modeling process.
Because there are some materials attached in the original model, the 3D model drafts are like this:
Ryan and his team responded fast on the model drafts. In particular, they mentioned the balcony railings. Actually, they are exquisitely designed to fit the apartment. As a result, Ryan shared the balcony handrail design and commented on the drafts:
They’d like to update the mural design. So remove the current mural and smooth the white stucco;
Update the vertical mullions aligning to the steps in the ceiling on the storefront;
Make screens less transparent.
After updating the new model, the next step we would add colors on the structure.
#Stage 3: Applying Materials and Textures, Lighting, and Post-production
As an all-concrete structure, this apartment is more than that. Our 3D artists strictly followed our client’s design concept, and selected the matching materials. In addition, materials and textures stage is a crucial part of the 3D rendering process, as it can greatly impact the final look and feel of the 3D scene.
After learning the instructions about the mood and activities Ryan shared in the first place, our 3D artists selected the proper sky for each image. Furthermore, 3D specialists adjusted the lighting based on the sky, and added people, cars, and activities in each scene.
At last, the colored drafts were here as below:
When receiving these drafts, Ryan commented on some detailed parts such as the lightings and plants. In all, he wanted to:
Relocate some of the balcony lights, and remove some at the same time;
Reduce the motion blur of the cars in foreground;
Thin out one of the Jacaranda trees and make it able to see more through;
Differentiate the plants on the balcony.
As a consequence, our 3D specialists modified these details and Ryan agreed to move forward and get the final rendered images! Here are the final 3D renders for Secoya Apartment:
The Secoya Apartment finished construction and open to home buyers in October 2022. Before it’s complete, Ryan and the marketing team use the renders for advertising this apartment. Now, when we see the structure’s photos, we’re surprised by the similarity of the photos and the renderings. The photos are here:
It was sheer pleasure working with Ryan and his team. Although they have changed the design during the process, the communication was efficient and clear. Firstly, the notes on drafts are super clear and consistent. They’re experts in giving comments. Secondly, the briefing is excellent. All types of materials are provided at their convinence. At last, they know how to save time in 3D rendering process. For example, they provided balcony railing design files to articulate this complicated part. Also, when they wanted to update the plan, they only sent the updated part instead of the whole model. This greatly saved time in the process, and brought results that makes both sides happy.
Want to sell your property faster? Thinking about hiring a professional 3D team for visualizing your project? Talk to our project manager now and get a free quote for your project. AIMIR is always here delivering head-turning 3D architectural visuals for the world.
Biophilic design is a modern architectural and interior design approach that aims to connect people with nature by incorporating natural elements into the built environment. The term “biophilic” comes from the Greek words for “love of life” and “nature.” To be more specific, it incorporates natural elements, such as plants, water, and natural light, into the built environment to create spaces that are healthy, productive, and inspiring.
What is Biophilic Design? Why is it matters? How to create a biophilic space? What is its story with 3D rendering and architectural visualization? In this article, we’ll introduce them one by one with a complete guide to Biophilic Design.
What is Biophilic Design?
As a modern design philosophy, the idea behind biophilic design is that humans have an innate connection to nature. It usually incorporates natural elements into architecture and interior design that have a positive impact on our physical and mental well-being. Some of the natural elements that can be used in biophilic design include plants, water features, natural light, and natural materials such as wood and stone. Ultimately, biophilic design seeks to create spaces that are not just functional, but also evoke a sense of calm and tranquility through the use of natural elements. Here, plants, water, light, stone, wood, and concrete are the most often-used materials in biophilic design.
However, biophilic design is not just about adding a few plants or using natural materials; it is a holistic approach to design that considers how the built environment can support human well-being and promote sustainability. Biophilic design has gained popularity in recent years as more people recognize the benefits of connecting with nature, both for our own health and for the health of the planet.
Why Use Biophilic Design?
There are many benefits to incorporating biophilic design elements into a space. For example, studies have shown that exposure to natural light can help regulate our circadian rhythms and improve our sleep quality. Being surrounded by plants has been shown to help reduce stress and anxiety levels, improve our mood, and increase our productivity. Additionally, using natural materials in construction and design can be more sustainable and eco-friendly, helping to reduce the environmental impact of buildings.
In addition to the health and environmental benefits, biophilic design can also create a more enjoyable and engaging experience for people in a space. By incorporating natural elements into the built environment, biophilic design can create a more calming and relaxing atmosphere, and can foster a sense of connection and engagement with the surrounding environment.
What can 3D Rendering do to Help Biophilic Design?
However, incorporating natural elements into architecture and interior design can be a challenge. This is where 3D rendering comes in. 3D rendering is a powerful tool that can be used to create realistic and immersive visualizations of biophilic design projects. This allows designers to experiment with different design options and configurations, collaborate with clients and other members of the design team, and identify potential issues or challenges early in the design process.
Visual Presentation
One of the key benefits of using 3D rendering in biophilic design is that it allows designers to create accurate and detailed visualizations of how natural elements will be incorporated into a space. For example, a designer can use 3D rendering to create a visual representation of how sunlight will enter a space at different times of the day, or how a plant wall will look from different angles. This level of detail can help ensure that the final design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Effective Communication
Another benefit of using 3D rendering in biophilic design is that it can help designers collaborate more effectively with clients and other members of the design team. By creating visualizations of their designs, designers can share their vision with others and get feedback before construction begins. This can help ensure that everyone is on the same page and that the final design meets the needs of all stakeholders.
Experimentation
What we can’t miss out is that 3D rendering allows designers to experiment with different design options and configurations. By creating virtual models and scenes of a space, designers can easily make changes to the design and test different options to see what works best. In the context of biophilic design, this can be particularly valuable, as designers can experiment with different natural elements to find the configuration that maximizes the benefits of nature.
Problem-Solving
Finally, 3D rendering can help architects and interior designers identify potential issues or challenges with a project before construction begins. By creating a virtual model of a space, designers can identify potential conflicts with building codes or environmental regulations, as well as potential challenges with construction or installation. This can help minimize the risk of delays or unexpected costs during the construction process, and can help ensure that the final design is practical and feasible.
Conclusion
In all, biophilic design is a modern design approach that seeks to connect people with nature by incorporating natural elements into the built environment. The benefits of biophilic design are numerous, including improved physical and mental well-being, increased productivity, and sustainability. Architectural 3D rendering is a valuable tool that can be used to create realistic and immersive visualizations of biophilic design projects, allowing designers to experiment, collaborate, and identify potential challenges early in the design process. By leveraging the benefits of biophilic design and 3D rendering, designers can create spaces that are healthy, sustainable, and inspiring.
Looking for 3D rendering services for your biophilic design? Hope to elevate your design process with better results? AIMIR is a creative architectural visualization studio providing head-turning 3D rendering services. Talk to our project manager about your exciting biophilic project, and we’ll turn your vision to reality.
The architecture design of a car dealership typically includes various functional areas such as the showroom, customer service area, sales offices, service center, and parking lot. And when it comes to buying a car, the experience can be just as important as the vehicle itself. That’s why car dealerships invest heavily in creating an environment that is both welcoming and visually appealing to potential customers.
Today, we will explore some of the most innovative car dealer architecture designs in the US. From minimalist designs that showcase the vehicles in all their glory to elaborate structures that blend seamlessly with their surroundings, this blog will offer a fascinating insight into the world of car dealer architecture by introducing four car dealers in USA.
Located in Indiana, this automobile dealership features 51,000 square feet. Different from traditional branded dealership, Unlimited Motors is a new facility for a successful used car dealership in the Indianapolis, IN suburb of Westfield. It includes 500 vehicles for sale, a showroom, and vehicle service areas. As for the architecture design, the buidling includes different functional areas such as the showroom, customer service area, sales offices, service center, and parking lot.
By creating both exterior and interior renderings for this facility, our 3D team reintroduce this structure’s inner spaces and façade design. Meanwhile, using an evening cloudy sky for the exterior view draws the viewers’ attention to the structure’s incredible large floor-to-ceiling walls. For the interiors, our 3D artists created two views for the lounge and showroom respectively. With realistic materials and proper furniture, the future showroom and lounge spaces are sure a unique and welcoming environment for customers.
Volvo’s dealership in Walnut Creek, California is specialized in selling both new and used Volvo vehicles. Transformed from a circa-1970’s storefront, this new state-of-the-art auto dealership has rooftop parking for 60 cars, the design solution to the 10’ grade change. Featuring a size of 16,000 square feet, the dealership has a modern and inviting showroom with sleek and contemporary design elements. Moreover, the structure has a modern and glossy design that incorporates contemporary elements such as high ceilings, large windows, and clean lines. In addition, it offers a range of services including sales, financing, and maintenance, and has received positive reviews for its customer service and knowledgeable staff.
To support our client’s vision, our 3D artists paid great attention on the 27’ glass curtain wall system, cement plaster, and rooftop solar panels. An aerial view provides a complete sight for the whole site. This time, we use the dusk mood for the street-level view. As it is perfect to see the structure clearly and light up the inner at the same time.
Audi Dealership in Oakland, California, USA
Situated in Oakland, California, Audi Dealership is a two-story structure with a striking contemporary design that glows in the dark to draw in new customers. Not far from the Oakland airport, it reflects the desire for greater visibility with a strong design statement and intense use of a limited site.
In our render, the lighting inside is enough that the viewers can still see most of the surroundings. We used a clear but a bit dusk sky with a little drama. This is to draw attention to the building itself. At the same time, greenery around the building makes this space customer-friendly and welcoming.
Toyota Vacaville in California, USA
Toyota Vacaville renovation and addition is a proposed plan for the car dealership in Vacaville, California. Equipped with insulated low-e clear glasses, this building has incredible natural light and visibility from the outside. This in turn, gives the cars inside an exposure to people outside the structure. And the architecture design of a car dealership is typically focused on creating a welcoming and functional environment for customers, while also maximizing the efficiency of operations for the dealership staff.
Our visual aims to express the awe-inspiring feeling visitors and buyer will have when standing in front of this functional and attractive space. With the standard 3D rendering process that is modeling – materials – lighting – rendering – post-production, this final image is a perfect future picture of the car dealer’s architecture.
Conclusion
Car dealerships are an essential part of the automotive industry, providing customers with a physical location to view, test drive, and purchase vehicles. Over these years, we’ve visualized different car dealer projects in USA and have caught up with the evolution to meet the changing industry. From traditional showroom designs to state-of-the-art facilities, 3D rendering services allows car dealerships to visualize their design concept in a realistic way. At the same time, architectural rendering can be cost-effective and offers a high degree of flexibility during the design process. At last, marketing with the help of 3D renders is a smart way for generating more interest and attract more customers.
Looking for a powerful tool for your car dealer architecture design in USA? Or thinking about working with a 3D team? Say hello to our project manager today, and get a free proposal for your exciting project! Founded in 2006, AIMIR has delivered more than 8,000 projects to the world with various project types.
3D rendering is an essential tool in creating visual representations of a variety of designs, from architecture to product design. It allows designers to bring their ideas to life and showcase them in a realistic way. One of the critical aspects of 3D rendering is setting the right mood, which includes selecting the appropriate season and weather.
Why Season and Weather are Important for 3D Renders
Season and weather can significantly impact the overall look and feel of a 3D render. They can set the mood, evoke emotions, and help tell a story. For example, a sunny day with blue skies and green grass can create a cheerful and inviting atmosphere, while a stormy day with dark clouds and rain can create a sense of gloom and despair. The season and weather also play a crucial role in establishing the time of day, which can significantly impact the lighting and shadows in the scene.
Season and weather can also be used to enhance the design features of the scene. For example, if the design features a modern house with clean lines and large windows, a sunny day can emphasize these features by creating a bright and airy atmosphere. On the other hand, if the design features a rustic cabin in the woods, a snowy winter day can emphasize the cozy and warm atmosphere of the space.
Selecting the Right Season and Weather for 3D Renders
When selecting the right season and weather for a 3D render, there are several factors to consider. These include the intended mood, the design features, and the story or message that the scene is trying to convey. Here are some tips on how to select the right season and weather for your 3D render:
Determine the Mood
The first step in selecting the right season and weather is to determine the mood you want to create. Do you want to create a cheerful and inviting atmosphere, or do you want to create a sense of mystery and intrigue? Different seasons and types of weather can help you achieve different moods. For example, if you’re planning to enter an architectural design competition, it is always important to have at least a sunny daytime view to persuade the juries.
Consider the Design Features
The design features of the scene can also play a significant role in selecting the right season and weather. For example, if the scene features a beach house with large windows and an outdoor patio, a sunny day with blue skies and the sound of waves crashing on the shore can create a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. On the other hand, if the scene features a Gothic castle with towering spires and dark stone walls, a stormy night with lightning and thunder can create a sense of foreboding and danger. However, these are just common cases, where you can take advice from, but the mood varies in some special situations.
Think About the Story
The story or message that the scene is trying to convey is also an essential factor to consider when selecting the right season and weather. For example, if the scene features a futuristic city with sleek skyscrapers and advanced technology, a sunny day with clear blue skies can emphasize the bright and optimistic future that the city represents. On the other hand, if the scene features a post-apocalyptic wasteland with ruined buildings and desolate landscapes, a stormy day with dark clouds and harsh winds can emphasize the bleak and dangerous world that the characters inhabit.
Types of Weather to Use in 3D Renders
Now that we’ve discussed why season and weather are important and how to select the right one, let’s explore some of the different types of seasons and weather that can be used in 3D renders:
Sunny
Probably one of the most common weather conditions used in 3D renderings is a sunny day. A sunny day features blue skies and abundant sunlight, creating a bright and clear atmosphere. This type of weather is ideal for outdoor renderings, as it can showcase the details of the design in full light. It can also create a cheerful, optimistic mood, which is perfect for promoting real estate or tourism projects.
Cloudy
A cloudy day, on the other hand, features diffused light and subdued shadows, creating a soft and even lighting environment. This type of weather can be ideal for interior renderings, as it minimizes harsh shadows and enhances the details of the design. It can also create a peaceful, contemplative mood, which is suitable for healthcare or wellness projects. Meanwhile, many exterior views stick on cloudy mood because it helps convey supremacy of instilling feelings of power of the object, for example, a high-rise.
Rainy
Rain is a type of weather that can be used to create a sense of mood and atmosphere in 3D renders. It can be represented by dark, stormy skies, puddles, and wet surfaces. The use of dramatic, moody lighting can help to create a sense of tension and suspense. Rain is an excellent choice for scenes that emphasize mystery, intrigue, and drama.
Foggy
Fog is another type of weather that can be used to create a sense of mood and atmosphere in 3D renders. It can be represented by misty landscapes, muted colors, and soft, diffused light. The use of cool, blue tones and a sense of distance can help to create a sense of mystery and intrigue. Fog is an excellent choice for scenes that emphasize fantasy, magic, and enchantment.
Snowy
A snowy day is another weather condition used in 3D renderings, particularly for winter or holiday-themed scenes. A snowy day features snowfall, snow-covered surfaces, and icicles, creating a cold and pristine atmosphere. This type of weather can add a layer of visual interest to outdoor scenes, highlighting the details of the design and creating a sense of depth and contrast.
Which Season to Use in 3D Renders?
Spring
Spring is a season of renewal and growth, making it an excellent choice for scenes that emphasize freshness, new beginnings, and optimism. In 3D renders, spring can be represented by blooming flowers, greenery, and warm, soft light. The use of pastel colors and a soft, hazy atmosphere can help to create a sense of serenity and peacefulness. Spring is also an excellent season to showcase outdoor spaces, such as gardens, parks, and outdoor cafes.
Summer
Summer is a season of warmth, energy, and vibrant colors, making it an excellent choice for scenes that emphasize joy, excitement, and fun. In 3D renders, summer can be represented by bright, sunny skies, blue waters, and lush green landscapes. The use of warm, golden light can help to create a sense of energy and enthusiasm. Summer is also an excellent season to showcase outdoor spaces, such as beaches, pools, and backyard barbecues.
Fall
Fall is a season of change, transformation, and nostalgia, making it an excellent choice for scenes that emphasize transition, reflection, and sentimentality. In 3D renders, fall can be represented by the changing colors of leaves, misty mornings, and crisp, cool air. The use of warm, golden light and deep, rich colors can help to create a sense of coziness and comfort. Fall is also an excellent season to showcase indoor spaces, such as cozy living rooms, fireplaces, and kitchens.
Winter
Winter is a season of stillness, reflection, and contemplation, making it an excellent choice for scenes that emphasize solitude, introspection, and quietness. In 3D renders, winter can be represented by snow, frosty landscapes, and cool, muted colors. The use of soft, diffused light and subtle, neutral tones can help to create a sense of calmness and stillness. Winter is also an excellent season to showcase indoor spaces, such as libraries, bedrooms, and cozy cabins.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the type of weather you choose for your 3D rendering will depend on the specific needs of your project and the mood or tone you want to convey. Consider the context of your design, the time of day and season, and the overall aesthetic you are going for when making your decision. By choosing the right season and weather, designers can create 3D renders that are not only visually appealing but also emotionally engaging and impactful.
What is your favorite mood for 3D renderings? Hesitating on selecting the mood for your project? Talk to our professional project managers and 3D artists, and AIMIR will create realistic and compelling 3D renderings that best present your project.
Creating architectural renders is not bonded by location. As one of the merits of 3D rendering services, no one can deny the fact that 3D artists are able to deliver perfect visuals in a short time to anywhere on this planet. In Japan, 3D rendering services are widely used to save time and money, communicate ideas more effectively, and gain a competitive advantage in their industry.
Japan’s incredibly diverse and innovative array of modern architecture deeply connect to the traditional architecture, also has transformed with the modern world today. Whether you’re into wabi-sabi houses, stunning capsule towers, or wooden-structured buildings, you’re going to find some surprises in this Architectural Rendering Projects in Japan list. Let’s begin.
Located in Hokkaido, ES13 is a quiet, tranquil mansion on the mountainside. With a total floor area of 778 square meters, this reinforced concrete is nestled in the forests where nature flows. Equipped with 5 bedrooms and a Japanese bath, this 3-storey mansion finds peace within the texture of wood, stone and brick.
AIMIR create both exterior and interior 3D renderings for this amazing residence to reconnect with nature. The realistic exterior renderings focus on the structure of the mansion and its surrounding environment. Meanwhile, the interior renders demonstrate the living room, bathroom, bedroom, and balcony in a photorealistic manner. In the 3D visuals, the viewers can get immersive experience when seeing the incredible floor-to-ceiling glass windows, natural concrete materials, and majestic scenes from all rooms.
Located in Tokyo, Japan, just 3 kilometers from the Tokyo Tower, this high-end residence is a three-story private property with an underground garage. This space sticks to minimalism, to have a simple lifestyle. The designer used light concrete and wooden as the main colors, to ease the comfort of this space. Natural light is the main lighting source so that the rooms are warmly lighted and feel more like a home rather than a house.
In our visuals, we express the many faces of the living room, bedroom, swimming pool, and entrance in a vibrant, modern but wabi-sabi style. More details of making this interior space is in our case study of Z Residence here.
Also situated in Hokkaido, Fenix Furano is on the foot of North Mountain in Furano city, featuring fantastic view of ski field and mountains. Actually, Furano Hotel is the second largest ski resort in Japan. The hotel lobby is designed with grey concrete walls, dark wall painting and maple wood ceiling to enhance the coziness and elegance.
In our 3D exterior renders, the hotel features concrete structure, wood louver, and metal mesh. At the same time, no matter it’s a daytime or night view, our 3D artists enrich the scene with people and activities, emphasizing the skiing and festive atmosphere. What’s more, the 3D interior views demonstrate both the lobby and the room. Don’t miss the custom stone-like warm lightings which provide continuous soft lighting for the lobby’s seating area, resonating with them of being liveness and inviting.
By the way, the vertical daytime view is also used as the cover of a magazine in local marketing. For the full story of making of Fenix Furano, please visit here.
This 4-story apartment in Hokkaido features the fantastic view of ski field and Mountain Tokachidake. With modern Japanese design and 15 rooms available, Sion Millet apartment has absolute view of both ski field nearby and Tokachidake (a beautiful mountain).
We created both exterior and interior views for this apartment. Three exterior street views focus on translating the structure and façade, while the interior views showcase the room with splendid mountain views.
KCP Residence
KCP Apartment
KCP Apartment (2)
This apartment silently sits in Abuta District, Hokkaido. With an incredible forest view, the units are equipped with large floor-to-ceiling glass windows and doors. As a result, the home owners are able to wake up in the morning and see the world changed into a beautiful white wonderland.
Snow view is one of the most difficult views to create in architectural 3D rendering process. Not because it’s rare, but because of its heavy needs for rendering especially for the snow. In our renders, 3D artists emphasize on the consistency of the structure and the snow scene. By delivering two perfect renders, our 3D artists create a harmonious world of nature and living.
That wraps up our selected projects in Japan. There are residential and commercial architecture including mansions, apartments, and hotels. Our studio has more projects in Japan to share, but due to our Non-Disclosure Agreement, some of them may need to remain confidential. However, we believe we’ll be allowed to share some of them soon
Are you handling architectural projects in Japan? Looking for 3D rendering in Japan? Please don’t hesitate to contact our professional project manager to get amazed with our Architectural Visualization services! Tell us your project and we’ll take care of it with head-turning 3D visualization works!
