Before the advent of 3D rendering software in architecture, images were handcrafted. Some architects still sketch today – a beautiful skill!
Professional artists use traditional tools such as pencils and paints to translate the blueprint of a project into a scene that gives a good impression of the completed construction.
These artists require a multitude of skills and knowledge to accurately capture various features of a project, including size, proportion, texture, and lighting. The expertise required to create high-quality drawings often necessitates outsourcing, which adds significant time and cost to an architect’s project.
When the initial rendering programs first appeared, rendering an image could take several hours. The demand for expertise was a barrier to adoption, with few professionals familiar or knowledgeable on how to successfully use these programs.
As technology has advanced, easy-to-use and intuitive rendering software allows architects to DIY their renderings and achieve stunning results more efficiently. Best of all, architects can go far beyond traditional methods by creating videos, panoramic views, and exploring virtual reality.
Who needs architectural renderings?
Today, the audience for creating architectural renderings is wide-ranging, including architectural design institutes, construction companies, real estate firms, other commercial entities, and even individuals.
Any member of these architecture teams can compose architectural renders using intuitive software, which guides them through the entire process and even automates some of the most complex imaging aspects. This enables the team to accelerate the pace of design work, make reference images available, without slowing down the production process.
What are the benefits of architectural rendering?
Creating architectural renders using modern technology brings so much to the table. When you opt for a real-time rendering solution, you can enjoy additional benefits of the design process.
Benefits of real-time architectural rendering include:
Efficient ideation: Visualizing rendered projects allows architects and designers to quickly test and develop different ideas.
Fast rendering: Using a real-time rendering solution means you can quickly export images, animations, panoramas, and entire project files.
Clear communication: Architecture rendering empowers architects and designers to clearly showcase their design intent, helping to build trust with clients and secure faster approvals.
Let’s take a deeper look at some of the benefits of architectural rendering.
- 3D architectural renderings help you show stakeholders the value
Having fully detailed, explorable 3D renders means architects don’t have to leave anything to the imagination. Clients and investors can get a complete view of the proposed design, enabling them to understand what the project will accomplish and how designs and specifications are reasonable.
This helps companies win the projects they submit proposals for and also improves communication and collaboration with clients. Stakeholders can even know exactly what they’re getting before the first brick is laid.
For projects requiring community approval, 3D architectural renders can be a great tool for showcasing how a project enhances the beauty and functionality of their community. People can see exactly how they’ll interact with this place in their day-to-day lives and see the value of their taxpayer investment.
- Improve project efficiency
Rendering software working within BIM or CAD programs allow architects to render while designing. It’s the fastest and most efficient way to design, iterate, visualize, and generate all types of renders.
3D renders can provide a more comprehensive picture than typical drawings, so architects can quickly track project decisions. When stakeholders and contractors don’t need to imagine the result, they can more easily evaluate and decide what should be done. This system greatly improves project efficiency.
- Identify inconspicuous problems in architectural drawings
Rendering programs use advanced algorithms to produce the most realistic effects for architectural renders. Sun angles and intensity can be simulated precisely, even modified automatically based on cloud cover, time, and surrounding vegetation.
Interior spaces reflect lighting conditions in real life, allowing architects to optimize their designs to accommodate daylight exposure. They can discover when lighting is too strong (which affects resident comfort and energy efficiency) or too weak.
The interactive quality of real-time rendering also allows troubleshooting of other aspects of the design. If standard drawings may not reveal any problems, virtual rehearsals may reveal that the layout isn’t as good as expected or discover conflicts that could significantly disrupt the construction process.
