Check out this architectural animation for the incredible mega mansion. In the realm of architectural visualization, 3D rendering and animation have revolutionized the way designers, architects, and real estate developers present their projects to clients. In this case study, we delve into a recent project undertaken by our architectural rendering studio, which involved creating a captivating 3D flythrough for a luxurious mega mansion located in Alabama, USA. This case study showcases how our 3D team utilized cutting-edge technology, creativity, and expertise to bring our client’s vision to life with architectural 3D animation services.
Now, let’s get started with the introduction of Drummond Residence.
Drummond Residence
Influenced by the Cape Dutch style of South Africa, this mega mansion is no doubt an incredible lifetime home to own. Located in Alabama, the exterior design of Drummond has a unique blend of European and South African influences. This distinct architecture features immaculate façade and beautiful roof lines. On top of classic Cape Dutch elements, Drummond also exudes timeless allure and modern refinement, offering a unique architectural statement that seamlessly merges the past with the present.
At the same time, Drummond has an incredible scale as to residence. The imposing structure features a meticulously crafted gabled roof, showcasing clean lines and a modern twist on the contemporary Cape Dutch style. The exterior façade, adorned in a whitewashed color, exudes timeless elegance. At last, no one can ignore the loggia and glass house, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and flood the interiors with natural light.
For such an architectural masterpiece, what did we need to do to bring it to life?
The Brief & Scope of Work
The primary objective of this project was to create a visually stunning 3D flythrough animation that would allow the owner to experience the grandeur of the mega mansion. Thus, the animation needed to capture the essence of the property, showcasing its architectural design, outdoor spaces, and its seamless integration with the surrounding landscape. Here, the architect who is also our old friend Christopher Architecture & Interiors especially emphasized on the landscape.
Let’s see what we’ve got from the design team:
Revit models. Models of the mansion and the landscape were sent through separately.
The flyover route. As professional as Chris’ team, they marked the camera route clearly in a screenshot of the model.
Landscape plan. As emphasized many times, the architect would like to pay attention to the landscape in the animation.
Floorplans. A serious of plans explaining the design.
After gaining a comprehensive understanding of the design vision and project target, the 3D rendering process started.
Real Estate 3D Animation Process
Generally, the 3D animation process involves setting camera path and storyboard, 3D modeling and camera setup, texturing, lighting, rendering, and post-production. Each project is unique, so the actual process may change.
#Stage 1: Camera Path & Storyboard
With a clear understanding of the client’s requirements, our team developed a storyboard that outlined the key scenes, camera angles, transitions, and overall flow of the animation. This process ensured a cohesive narrative and a visually engaging experience for the viewers.
For Drummond Residence project, it would be a simple demonstration rather than a fancy animation. And the most important was that our client hoped to focus on showcasing the landscape in the flythrough. Meanwhile, they shared the flyover route including the start, finish, and through details. It was a great help for setting up the camera.
#Stage 2: 3D Modeling
Although we’ve received a Revit model, the 3D artists still needed to rehandle it. To be specific, the model would be imported into 3ds Max, and our 3D modelers would retouch it. Our talented 3D artists paid meticulous attention to detail, replicating the architectural element with precision to reflect the grandeur of the design.
It didn’t take long when the 3D model was completed. Although some of the design features were not clear enough in the plan, we’re waiting for the architect’s comments.
The comments didn’t take long to arrive. In the comments, the architect articulated some features and made corrections on the design. In particular, they wanted to:
Show stone pavers for lounge chairs;
Change the wall of the water feature;
Adjust the wall corner details to the new design;
Also change some wall designs including tie them together and raise walls;
Add sculpture on the centerline of pool.
These requests were accepted and modified based on the instructions. During the process, our talented 3D artists paid meticulous attention to details. At last, the 3D model was confirmed by the architect as below:
With a confirmed 3D model, our 3D animators were able to put the model into the scene. This way, we could check the allocation of the structure and the relationship between the surrounding context and it.
The challenge lay in replicating the realistic materials and intricate details of the mansion accurately. So, our 3D team utilized the most realistic materials to ensure that every surface was recreated convincingly in the virtual presentation. For this project, our client insisted to have a pure and absolute scene of the mansion, instead of adding people, cars and activities. As emphasized at the beginning of the project, the animation should focus on showcasing the landscape.
Animation breathed life into the project, enabling viewers to navigate through the mansion seamlessly. We orchestrated smooth camera movements, guiding viewers through the mansion’s opulent outdoor living spaces, luxurious swimming pools, state-of-the-art entertainment areas, and the breathtaking outdoor amenities. And the key frames being shared were as below:
The architect team responded rapidly with their comments. At last, there were a few adjustments needed to be made, including:
Remove all lamp posts;
Change the color of some of the plants;
Lower the height of hedge;
Use pale lavender color for one of the flowers, also make the texture wispy.
Basically, these comments were about landscape details. Our 3D specialists adjusted these aspects based on the instructions.
#Stage 4: Post-production
This is the last stage in a 3D animation rendering process. In the post-production stage, the 3D artists check the overall animation and take actions to fulfill the scenes. For example, they add background music to the animation, or some special effects to light up the scene.
For this flythrough, we simply tuned the color of the scenes, and made the lighting natural and adequate. Just after one round draft, the architect approved it and the final animation was ready to deliver!
Before that, our 3D team checked again the full animation to make sure it was optimized for performance. To create a seamless and immersive experience, our team optimized the animation for smooth performance across different devices and platforms. This involved carefully managing the polygon count, optimizing textures, and implementing efficient rendering techniques to maintain high-quality visuals without sacrificing performance.
#Stage 5: Final Delivery
Let’s enjoy this fabulous Cape Dutch mansion and its splendid surrounding environment!
At last, this animation became an invincible tool for our client, empowering them to showcase the mage mansion’s unique design and luxurious lifestyle to its future owner. Reporting or presentation is an inevitable process during the real estate development, and a persuasive 3D animation is the best solution here. By providing an immersive virtual tour of the mega mansion, the animation enabled viewers to visualize themselves within the space, fostering an emotional connection and stimulating their desire to own a piece of this architectural masterpiece. It offered a compelling and realistic glimpse into the lifestyle that the mansion offered, solidifying its position as a coveted luxury residence.
The successful completion of the Alabama Mega Mansion 3D flythrough animation stands as a testament to our company’s commitment to excellence, creativity, and innovation in architectural visualization. Also, we won’t forget how excellent the communication was from Chris’ team. They are efficient and well-organized as always, let alone their incredible architectural design. They are always our best partner!
At our architectural rendering company, we take pride in our ability to bring architectural visions to life through stunning visualizations and animations. Whether it’s a mega mansion, commercial development, or any architectural project, we strive to exceed our clients’ expectations, empowering them to present their designs with confidence and make a lasting impact in the industry. Simply contact us for level up your design with our 3D rendering services and 3D animation services!
A’Raya Complex is a mixed-use development located in the Ministries District of Muscat, Oman. Developed by the government-owned company ASAAS, the complex offers a unique combination of amenities and services, including a 3-star hotel, a shopping center, and the new headquarters of the Royal Academy of Management. This amazing structure is designed to enhance the area’s appeal as a destination for business and leisure, providing a range of facilities and services for visitors and locals alike. The exterior design of the complex features modern architecture and striking contemporary elements, creating a visually stunning landmark in the heart of Muscat.
Our team worked closely with the developers at ASAAS to bring their vision to life, creating a series of stunning 3D renders that captured the essence of the A’raya Complex. From the sleek modern lines of the hotel and shopping center to the striking design of the Royal Academy of Management’s new headquarters, our 3D visualization allowed the developers to showcase the project’s full potential and gain the necessary approvals to move forward with construction.
Now, let’s discover this groundbreaking project which we did in 2020 and the story behind its 3D rendering process.
Understanding A’Raya
Situated in one of the most prominent location in Muscat, A’Raya Complex has easy access to the main road and surrounded by the Ministries area. The complex comprises three main sections: a 3-star hotel, a shopping center, and the new headquarters of the Royal Academy of Management.
The hotel is operated by Deutsche Hospitality under the InterCity brand, and offers a range of amenities and services to guests, including comfortable accommodations, conference facilities, and dining options. And the shopping center is designed to cater to the needs of the local community, with a variety of retail outlets and dining options. The center is located on the ground floor of the complex, with easy access from the main road, and offers a range of shopping experiences for visitors. At last, the new headquarters of the Royal Academy of Management is another key feature of the A’Raya Complex. The academy is dedicated to providing world-class management education and training to students and professionals, and the new facility will provide state-of-the-art classrooms, lecture halls, and other facilities to support their mission.
As to the design, the vision is to create a destination where Omanis will eager to go and spend time in order to not only satisfy their retail needs but also to enjoy leisure time and be entertained. In order to achieve this, the architect creates an experience akin to being in a lush green Oasis but with a tempered climate below a shaded canopy. The canopy sits above the retail courtyard is an iconic architectural statement as well as a highly functional intervention for climatic environmental control.
A’Raya & 3D Rendering Services
The A’raya Complex is a true testament to the power of 3D visualization in the architectural industry. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and advanced design techniques, we were able to create photorealistic representation of the complex that helped to inspire and engage stakeholders, investors, and the wider community. We are proud to have played a role in the development of this landmark project, and we look forward to seeing the A’raya Complex become a shining example of Oman’s growing real estate sector.
Now, we will separate the process of making 3D renders for A’Raya one by one.
Kick-off Meeting and the Brief
There is not always a kick-off meeting before a 3D architectural rendering project start. The purpose of a kick-off meeting is to bring both parties together and establish a shared understanding of the project goals, timelines, expectations, and deliverables. As long as the above aspects are clear to both sides, there is no need to have an actual meeting.
For this project, ASSAS has prepared various information about this project. And in the meeting, they were presented one by one to communicate their vision and requirements. Meanwhile, our 3D team offered suggestions and recommendations based on our expertise. At the same time, any concerns and questions were raised to ensure the final delivery meet our client’s needs and expectations.
In all, we know about A’Raya before the production started in the following aspects:
A project presentation slides. In the slides, we learnt the vision of the project, including the cultural background, location, the design, the surrounding environment, and other aspects regarding the project.
A Revit model. Although the model was not completed, it still gave our team a general idea of the project.
Design plans. Including site plans, elevations, floor plans, landscape plans, section plans. These design plans are essential tools for our 3D team to understand the project more deeply.
Other design details. Such as façade lighting designs, exterior envelope design, and material board.
Scope of the work. ASSAS were looking for a series of renders and an animation to present this project. In the initial stage, we agreed to create 13 still images and a one-and half-minute animation.
Once we’ve organized the project information, the next stage was around the corner. We’ll divide the process into 3D still images and 3D animation.
3D Renders of A’Raya
#Stage 1: 3D Modeling
Although Revit has basic rendering capabilities, using professional rendering software like Autodesk 3ds Max can offer more advanced and flexible rendering options. 3ds Max supports advanced rendering techniques such as global illumination, caustics, volumetric lighting, and complex material creation. These tools can create more realistic and detailed visual effects. For this reason, our 3D modeler input the Revit model into 3ds Max. This means we’ll need to take care the model again in 3ds Max.
The other thing to pay attention to is to check for errors. Importing a Revit model may result in messy lines, overlapping geometry, missing materials or other issues. Here is when our 3D modeler comes to stage. The 3D model drafts we shared are as below:
Of course, our client had their opinions on the model, including some minor design changes. They came back with some comments, including:
Add MEP equipment for a substation;
Update some of the roof design;
Add louvers to the hotel windows;
Adjust some fences.
Their comments are clear, with references attached. This greatly helped our 3D artists to deliver their vision and exceed their expectation. After some corrections, it was time to move to next stage.
#Stage 2: Materials, Textures, Lighting and Post-production
In some 3D rendering projects, this stage is usually divided into several steps. The reason to do this is to guarantee that each stage is on the right track. For example, we share texture drafts to confirm with clients the materials are all accurate and realistic. However, for ASSAS, we share the drafts with materials, lighting, and even post-production. This is because we’ve collaborated many times in the past years and our 3D team know their tastes. This makes the 3D rendering process easier.
This structure uses reinforced concrete frame and slabs cast in-situ with hollow concrete block infill, textured plaster rendering of façades. As for the canopy, which is an iconic architectural statement as well as a highly functional intervention for climatic environmental control, has two overlapping geometric patterns. These features would be perfected presented with our 3D renders with realistic material and smart lighting.
The First Round Drafts
Thus, our 3D artists created realistic scenes for this future structure and shared with our client. The first round of colored drafts are as below:
ASSAS team replied with their comments for these views. In general, there were some adjustments they hoped to do:
Change the color contrast for the canopy in aerial views;
Add water fountain;
Add digital screens in the front of the entrance;
Make surrounding buildings slightly lighter;
Add Intercity logo and Oman national flags;
Lit up some of the inner spaces;
Try different sky with more dramatic effect;
More people shopping in the shopping spaces.
After correcting all views, we shared the updated views again. This time, only a couple of comments await.
The Second Round Drafts
This time, we’re asked to make some minor adjustments on the signage and landscape, namely:
Make Omani flag stand out more;
Use reverse colors for InterCity flag;
Remove all car plate numbers;
Add some local taxis and public transport. References were provided.
The 3D specialists refined all the requested corrections. Our client approved them and were ready to get the final results!
Next, the 3D artists rendered all views in 6k and 7k resolution to get the best-possible results.
#Stage 3: Final Delivery
To be honest, a couple of the images were delivered during the project process because our client needed them to report urgently. But here we’ve collected all 13 views for your enjoyment.
To maximize the efficiency, our art direct started the project with a 3D still image team and a 3D animation team. Two teams work simultaneously and interactively to achieve the best result. The primary challenge was to showcase both the exterior and interior features of this mixed-use in an engaging and immersive way. And our object was to demonstrate the structure’s modern design, the lively atmosphere of retail space, and the welcoming atmosphere of the building as a whole.
To start, we sorted the camera path and story board our client wanted. The ideal fly-through would:
Start from Muscat city level, which is a huge aerial view;
Introduce master plan with sea background and surrounding context;
Approach project from near existing roundabout;
Enter the premises from the main retail entrance gate;
Introduce the inner spaces including central plaza basement and retails;
Followed by the hotel experience including arriving area, lobby, restaurants, meeting rooms, swimming pool, ballroom and guestrooms;
Showcase the office with lobby, public spaces, and rooms;
Finally end with central plaza and zoom out the view.
Our 3D animation team was excited to see such a professional camera path, let along attached references of story boards. However, to conclude all the above contents in 90 seconds was quite challenging. Therefore, the team started immediately to see how it went.
#Stage 1: 3D Model Refinement
The 3D model for still images were not good enough for animation. To be specific, the 3D model for an architectural animation should be perfect from all perspectives. As a result, our 3D modeler started to refine the model, especially the ones could not be seen in the still images.
After the model was ready, our 3D animator put the model in the scene and started to compose the fly-through draft.
#Stage 2: Camera Path Confirmation
What our 3D animator did was basically build the structure for this animation. This structure would strictly follow the camera path our client shared. In this stage, the building in the scene was still white model. Thus, the aim of this stage was to confirm the camera path only.
When doing this, our team had confronted with the biggest challenge in this project: the time duration was not enough to show all. Per our client, there were indeed tons of contents to show in this animation. After an internal team meeting between the 3D animators, art director, and project manager, we decided to tell our client about this. Of course, we came up with our suggestion as well. That was, to extend the animation to 120 seconds.
At last, the proposal was accepted. By skipping a couple of scenes, we rearranged the animation with smoothing and pleasant pace.
#Stage 3: Key Frames
Once the camera path was confirmed, the whole team proceeded with coloring the scene. This included applying textures, colors, setting lighting, and add people, cars and other objects. When finishing these steps, some key frames would be screenshot and shared with clients to confirm. This is a crucial part of the whole 3D animation process.
#Stage 4: Rendering, Motion Graphics, Post-production and Final Delivery
After two review rounds, the rendered scenes were all good to go. There was not much motion graphics in this animation because it is a peopleless fly-through that aims to demonstrate the building only.
Now, let’s enjoy this incredible structure in this 3D animation!
Conclusion
AIMIR is more than excited to work with ASSAS to create visuals for this incredible project. Here is the official site for A’Raya: http://araya.om/ and the mixed-use was officially opened on November 2022. Real estate professionals often use 3D rendering services before construction begins. They can get a more accurate and realistic representation of what the project will look like when finishing. At the same time, 3D visuals help to identify potential issues or design flaws early which in turn saves time and money.
Real estate development, no matter big or small scale, needs to design and refine the plan before construction begins. Here is where 3D rendering services come to stage. By using 3D rendering services, architects, designers and real estate professionals can get a more accurate and realistic representation of what the finished project will look like, including details such as materials, lighting, and landscaping. This can help to identify potential issues or design flaws early on in the process, reducing the likelihood of costly mistakes or delays during construction. Additionally, 3D rendering services can also be used to create marketing materials, such as virtual tours or photorealistic images, which can help to generate interest and attract buyers or investors.
This time, we worked with CREW to create 3D renders for Westfield Milano, a huge shopping complex in Milan, Italy. They were designing this structure and needed our help to visualize it accurately. Thus, they’re able to present the project to the owner and local government. Let’s discover the incredible process of visualizing this new shopping mall.
#Stage 1: Brief & Scope
To start the project, our team begun with understanding the project including our project manager and 3D team. In the beginning, our client introduced the project details.
Situated in the eastern part of Milan, Westfield Milano is close to Linate International Airport and the high-speed Milano-Venezia train line. The total site area is 603,900 square meters and was formerly a bonded warehouse area that was never utilized. And this four-story shopping center is interconnected by lifts and escalators that overlook double and triple height spaces. The aim of the project is to create an innovative and unique combination of retail and leisure, making the new Westfield Milano an iconic destination for the local people, the Lombardy Region and for Italian and foreign tourists.
As a result, we’ve learnt the vision of the project, and what we needed to create 3D renders:
A Revit model: The model forms the general design of the structure. Of course, it needed further refinement.
Material references: As one of the most important part in 3D rendering, the materials and textures are clearly provided in the file. Therefore, our 3D artists were able to apply realistic textures to accurate parts.
Camera angles: Our client was clear about the views they wanted. That was, six views in total including one aerial view and five eye-level views.
The Revit model
Material references
#Stage 2: 3D Modeling
After everything is clear, our 3D modeler started to take care of the model. Since we’ve received a Revit model, there was no need to start from the very beginning. However, the Revit model was not ready to use straightforward. In this stage, our 3D artists input the Revit model into 3ds Max. This is the software we use to model and render. There are several points where we need to pay attention to during this step. For example, we need to adjust the scale of the model after imputing. This is because these two modeling software use different units of measurement.
Anyway, the final 3D model is as below. Our client was happy to proceed with it.
#Stage 3: Materials, Textures, Lighting, and Post-production
Probably this is the most important stage during the 3D rendering process. Once the model is confirmed, the 3D artists can apply colors on it. During this step, the 3D specialists select realistic textures in the architect’s design, and apply them on the corresponding places. For this reason, we carefully studies the material references for this project, and started texturing.
According to the architect, the exterior design strategy is focused on capturing the essence of Milan as a hub of fashion and design excellence, where modern and traditional ideas intersect to create an iconic destination on both local and global scales. As a result, the exterior of Westfield Milano has a modern and sleek design, with a mix of glass, steel, and concrete elements. The mall’s façade features a dynamic pattern of arch shapes, giving the building a distinctive and eye-catching look.
To illustrate the intention that reflects Milan’s reputation as a fashion and design capital, while also being functional and efficient, our 3D artists applied materials as well as lighting. For the lighting, different views have different mood. So we strictly followed the client’s needs on mood, adjusting the lighting based on the overall mood of the scene. If you pay attention, you’ll find all windows and arches are lit, so that the activities are visible to the viewers. This in turn makes the scene lifelike and vivid.
At last, our CG specialists added people and objects. This can help create a sense of scale and activity. The landscape plan is also demonstrated clearly in 3D renders. The 3D specialists populated the scene with shoppers, employees, and shopping bags, and filled the show windows with clothes, luxuries and relaxation amenities.
#Stage 4: Client’s Comments and Corrections
When we shared the colored drafts to our client, their team replied with comments in a short time. In general, they were happy with the results. But there’re several parts they hoped to adjust, namely:
Add more transparence and lighting from the center to the sides of the main entrance. Minimize mullions;
Add vertical green walls on both sides of the edge buildings;
Add more people in the loggia;
Rearrange the terraces on both sides. Soft the illumination, add standing people.
These comments greatly assisted our 3D team in getting to the right direction. Within 12 hours, our 3D artists completed all the requested corrections. Next, we rendered all six views in 6K, and delivered one aerial view and five eye-level views.
#Stage 5: Final Delivery of 6K 3D Renders
Now, let’s invite you to enjoy the realistic 3D renders of the fantastic shopping mall.
Although the project is still in concept process, these 3D views are now on their website portfolio. Check it on the image below or simply click here.
Conclusion
It is amazing to create visuals for this huge project. Our team greatly admired the architectural design of this mall especially the stunning façade. We are excited to have assisted CREW team in demonstrating this majestic project to the public with the help of our 3D renderings. Meanwhile, our team was surprised by their efficiency of commenting. In fact, there were only three rounds of drafts and the project was completed!
Looking for 3D renderings to showcase your real estate project? Need photorealistic visuals to persuade your client? Talk to our professional project manager and get to know our 3D rendering services now. We will take your architectural project to next level!
In recent years, the architecture and real estate industries have seen a revolution in the way they showcase properties to clients. With the advent of 360° home tours and panoramas, clients can now explore a property from the comfort of their own homes, providing a more immersive and engaging experience than traditional photographs or floor plans. And with the added power of 3D rendering technology, these virtual tours have become even more impressive and impactful. Today, you don’t really need a Virtual Reality device to take you to the incredible world. Now, with 360° virtual home tour service and tool, you can simply enjoy the future home with your phone, tablet, desktop or laptop. This means anytime, anywhere, at your fingertips.
So what exactly is a 360° virtual home tour rendering, how can it benefit architects, real estate agents, and property developers, and where to get the 360° home tour service?
What is 360° Virtual Home Tour Rendering?
A 360° virtual home tour is a digital representation of a property that allows clients to “walk through” the space using a 360-degree view. These tours can be accessed on a variety of devices, including desktop computers, smartphones, and virtual reality headsets.
Traditionally, these tours have been created using photographs or videos taken from different angles of the interior and exterior of a building, which are then stitched together to create a panoramic view. While this approach can be effective, it has its limitations. The lighting, colors, and textures of the space may not be accurately represented, and it can be difficult to showcase the full potential of the property.
This is where 3D rendering technology comes in. By creating a 3D model of the property using computer software such as 3ds Max or Corona Renderer, architects and designers can create a virtual tour that is much more customizable and accurate than a traditional photo or video tour.
The 3D rendering process involves creating a digital model of the property, which can include details like furniture, lighting, and decor. This model can then be used to generate high-quality images, videos, and animations, which can be incorporated into a 360° virtual tour.
Benefits of 360° Virtual Tour Rendering Services
There are several benefits to using 360° virtual home tours rendering services, including:
Incredible Customization
With 3D rendering technology, architects and designers have greater control over the virtual tour, allowing them to customize everything from the lighting and colors to the furniture and decor. This can help to create a more accurate representation of the space and showcase its full potential. Thus, 3D virtual home tours are perfect presentation for high-end, luxurious residential and commercial spaces.
More Realistic Experience
Because the virtual tour is created from a 3D model, it can be much more realistic and immersive than a traditional photo or video tour. Clients can explore the space from any angle, zoom in and out, and even interact with objects within the space. In a word, it provides an immersive experience from any location and any device, as if the viewer is standing in the space.
Faster Turnaround
While creating a 3D model can take some time upfront, once the model is created, generating high-quality images and videos can be done quickly and efficiently. This can help to speed up the sales process and provide clients with a more timely and accurate representation of the property.
Increased Engagement
360° virtual home tours using 3D rendering can provide a more engaging and memorable experience for clients, helping to differentiate your property from competitors. This can be especially useful in the high-end real estate market, where clients are looking for a unique and luxurious experience.
Reduced Costs
While 3D rendering technology can seems to be “expensive“, it can actually help to reduce costs in the long run. Because clients can explore the property virtually, there may be less need for in-person visits or open houses, which can help to save time and money. Also, in case of unbuilt spaces, 360° virtual tour brings experiences that people are able to see their homes as if they’re ready. This way, they may come up with changes that are ready to change in the construction process.
How to Create 360° Virtual Home Tours
Unlike traditional panorama views that you just need to take photos or record videos for the rooms, creating a 360° virtual home tour involves several steps, including:
Creating a 3D Model
The first step in creating a 360° virtual home tour is to create a digital model of the property. This can be done using 3D modeling software, such as SketchUp, Revit, or 3ds Max. The model should include details like the floor plan, furniture, lighting, and decor. If you don’t know what software to use, feel free to check our recommendations of Best Free CAD Software and Best Free Online CAD Software.
Texturing and Lighting
Once the 3D model is created, the next step is to add textures and lighting to create a more realistic representation of the space. Textures can include things like wallpaper, flooring, and fabrics, while lighting can be used to create different moods and effects within the space.
Rendering
After the model is textured and lit, it can be rendered to create high-quality images and videos. This involves using specialized rendering software to process the 3D model and generate the final output. The rendering process can take some time, depending on the complexity of the model and the level of details required. If you have no idea what rendering software to use, read our suggestions on Best Free Interior Design Apps and Best Free Rendering Software.
Completing the Virtual Tour
Once the images and videos are generated, they can be combined to create a 360° virtual home tour. This can be done using specialized software, such as Tour Creator or Matterport, which allow users to create interactive tours that can be accessed on a variety of devices.
Sharing the Tour
Once the 3D virtual tour is created, it can be shared with clients and potential buyers via email, social media, or embedded on a website. Some real estate agents and property developers may also use virtual reality headsets to provide an even more immersive experience. The easiest way is to simply share a link that contains the home tour. Want an example? Check this link for a photorealistic 360° virtual home: here. Just drag your mouse or slide your finger to view the full house.
Tips for Creating a Successful 360° Virtual Home Tour
While 360° virtual home tours using 3D rendering can be a powerful tool for showcasing properties, there are some best practices to keep in mind to ensure the tour is effective and engaging:
Use High-Quality Images: As the basic start of 360° home tours, the quality of the images and videos used in the virtual tour can make a big difference in the overall impact. Make sure to use high-resolution images that are sharp and clear, and consider using HDR (high dynamic range) imaging to capture a wider range of colors and details.
Showcase Key Features: When creating the virtual tour, make sure to showcase the key features of the property, such as unique architectural details or high-end finishes. This can help to differentiate the property from competitors and provide a more compelling experience for clients. If this cannot be shown temporarily, consider to use 3D rendering services to get the most realistic results.
Keep it Simple: While it can be tempting to include a lot of bells and whistles in the virtual tour, it’s important to keep the experience simple and easy to navigate. Make sure the tour is intuitive and easy to use, and avoid including too many distractions that could detract from the overall experience.
Optimize for Mobile: With more and more clients accessing virtual tours on their smartphones, it’s important to optimize the tour for mobile devices. Make sure the tour is mobile-friendly, with easy-to-use controls and quick load times.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 360° virtual home tours are a revolutionary way to showcase properties and provide a more immersive and engaging experience for clients. By creating a 3D model of the property and generating high-quality images and videos, architects, real estate agents, and property developers can provide a more accurate and impactful representation of the space. And with the added benefits of greater customization, faster turnaround times, and increased engagement, it’s no wonder that more and more professionals are turning to 360° virtual home tours using 3D rendering as a key tool in marketing.
Need interior rendering services or 360° virtual tour to impress your clients? Contact us at AIMIR and get your projects shine in front of your clients and among the competitors!
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.
