ArchiCGI

Full 3D vs. Backdrop Photo for Aerial View Rendering: What Should Architects Choose?

Stanislava Mur — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 15:00:10 +0000

Aerial view renderings, both static and animated, are widely used in architectural visualization. They are popular for being eye-catching, captivating, and informative. How do you create an aerial view rendering? Apart from a 3D model of the main structure, you’ll need a detailed large-scale backdrop to showcase its surroundings. There are two ways to create a background like that. You can either use drone photography or have a full 3D scene built from scratch. Each method has its unique advantages and limitations, influencing the visual impact of the resulting CGI.

Our 3D rendering studio excels at both techniques. So, in this guide, we describe the pros and cons of using backdrop photos and fully 3D scenes in the context of aerial visualizations. It will help you to choose the best method for your project’s needs, budget, and timeline. Let’s dive in!

#1. Drone-Captured Aerial Backgrounds

By showing the real-world environment, drone footage ensures accuracy and realism in an aerial view rendering. Not only does it provide a true-to-life view of the landscape, but also costs less than full-scale 3D modeling of the scene. Also, it is faster, especially if you’re lucky enough to catch the ideal weather and lighting conditions for drone shooting on the first try. However, there’s a catch. As your rendering will be based on footage of the existing environment, 3D artists won’t be able to significantly modify the backdrop.

Pros:

Cost-effective compared to full 3D. This makes drone photography for aerial view rendering an affordable choice for projects with limited budgets.
A high level of realism ensured by the depiction of real-life scenery.
A quicker turnaround.

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Cons:

Dependenсу on ever-changing weather and lighting. Favorable weather can speed up the 3D view creation, but waiting for the right conditions might cause delays.
Limited control over details of the environment.
Potential restrictions in camera angles and perspectives. For example, if you’re shooting in a neighborhood densely packed with buildings.

If you feel like this option is the right choice for your project, check out our article on how to make drone video for architectural 3D animation. There, you’ll find a comprehensive guide on shooting videos for stellar results.

#2. Full 3D Aerial Environments

Creating a full 3D environment for an aerial view rendering offers exceptional creative freedom and control. It allows you to experiment with different lighting, weather, and viewpoints, embodying scenarios that might be too difficult or impossible to shoot in real life – such as a fast change of seasons.

Pros:

Unlimited possibilities for creativity and customization. If you need an aerial view rendering with a more artistic touch, full 3D is the way to go.
No dependence on weather or natural lighting conditions.
Ability to create aerial views and angles that drones cannot capture.

Cons:

Higher costs due to the extensive work and resources needed to create realistic aerial renderings of this type.
Longer production timelines. 3D artists need time both to build large detailed scenes and render them.

It’s worth mentioning that this method requires exceptionally high expertise in 3D modeling and rendering as well as access to state-of-the-art equipment. If you choose an inexperienced artist or a studio without a rendering farm, it might have a negative impact both on the timelines and the quality of the outcome. So make sure to pick a professional CGI contractor with the right toolset and skills.

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All in all, both drone photography and full 3D scenes can work great for your aerial view rendering. The choice will depend on your budget, time constraints, and specific goals. If you are not restricted in resources, prefer a creative approach, and want to have total control over the results, building the entire scene in 3D might be the best option for you. And if you need to emphasize realism and get your rendering quicker, drone footage will be indispensable.

Looking for 3D visualization services to enhance your architectural presentations? Contact ArchiCGI to get professional 3D artists working on your renders. Whether you opt for conceptual artistic rendering or prioritize high realism, our team will uplift your presentations and marketing materials!

Stacey Mur
Content Writer, Copywriter

Stacey is a content writer and a CG artist. Outside of work, Stacey enjoys musicals, Star Wars, and art talk. A proud Corgi parent.

The post Full 3D vs. Backdrop Photo for Aerial View Rendering: What Should Architects Choose? appeared first on ArchiCGI.

How to Make Drone Video for Architectural 3D Animation? A Detailed Guide

Stanislava Mur — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 10:00:30 +0000

Among the latest architectural visualization techniques, camera tracking is particularly notable. It merges real-world drone video of the location with 3D models of future buildings. This way, the technique enhances the realism and appeal of architectural 3D animation, making it more lifelike and engaging for viewers. However, the impact of the camera tracking results depends on the quality of the drone video used in it. The well-made footage can dramatically enhance the experience, showing the future building in the best light.

Wondering how to make drone video to get stunning animations? Our 3D rendering studio has the answers you need. Read on!

#1. Providing the Necessary Information and Files

So, what will your archviz studio need to create a 3D animation based on real-life footage? Here are the things to include in your brief:

Technical specifications of your drone

How to make drone video that captures every meaningful detail? First of all, to produce quality footage for 3D animations, your drone must meet specific technical criteria. Namely, it should be capable of recording in ultra-high resolutions like 4K or 8K. Furthermore, a high frame rate, preferably between 30 and 60 FPS, is essential for capturing motion smoothly. This is particularly important for dynamic scenes and reducing motion blur in fast-moving frames.

When compiling a brief, make sure to indicate the model of your drone and the tech details listed above.

Diverse camera movements

The storytelling power of the drone video largely depends on the variety of camera movements. So, it is essential to capture movements that showcase the project site from multiple angles and perspectives.

When making drone video, try to shoot as many of these types of movements as possible:

orbit (circling the point of interest);
pullback (gradually widening the view of the site);
crane/JIB (mimicking the motion of a crane moving upwards or downwards);
low altitude (highlighting details of the terrain and immediate surroundings);
tracking (following a particular moving object);
top-down (a bird’s eye view);
tilt up;
tilt down;
plain straight;
flyover;
panorama curve.

Shooting all these movements with your drone will give your CGI contractor enough material to work with. Using it, they’ll be able to choose and combine the best perspectives to create the most appealing and informative 3D animation for you.

360-degree panoramas

For a complete overview of the project site, make several 360-degree panoramas. It’s best to shoot in the highest possible resolution, ideally in HDRI, to ensure the flawless quality of future 3D animation with drone footage. If the weather conditions change during the shooting, make some additional panoramas. This will allow archviz specialists to keep the consistency between the frames, making the final animation realistic and smooth.

#2. Creating Window Transition Shots

To make drone video animation more impressive, you can include some interior scenes with a glimpse of the outside world. Here, drone shooting can be used to create realistic views from the windows. How to make drone video for that purpose? Keep in mind the following.

Flight altitude

To simulate the future view from a specific window in the animation, it’s crucial to align the drone’s flight altitude with the actual height of the floor in question. So, how to make drone video from this perspective? Multiply the number of the floor by three meters (an average floor height) to achieve the right altitude for shooting. For instance, for a tenth-floor window, the drone should be positioned at about 30-35 meters.

Location of the shoot

The location from which you shoot can greatly impact the quality and informativity of the footage. Here are some tips.

When there is no dense construction nearby, and nothing interferes with the drone’s flight, the process is quite straightforward. In such cases, the drone should fly directly over the construction site. This ensures that it captures the exact perspective as if looking out from the future building’s windows.

Dense urban areas present a challenge. Here, it’s often difficult or even impossible for a drone to easily fly above the site. In this case, one should use floor plan projections. These are drawings or visualizations that show where different rooms of the future building will be located. By using them, you can precisely determine where the drone should fly to capture the necessary views.

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For example, if you aim to capture the view from a window on the 10th floor, you need to find out exactly where this floor will be situated within the building. The drone then needs to fly over that particular area to make the correct video. This approach ensures that the drone’s camera is aligned with what will be the actual view from the window, providing realistic and informative footage for the 3D animation.

Drone’s view

The orientation of the drone’s camera is critical. Ensuring that the horizon line in the footage is perfectly horizontal prevents distorted views that could skew the perspective in the final animation. So, make sure to align the horizon when making the drone video.

Moving elements

When planning the shoot, consider any dynamic elements that you wish to include in the final video, such as moving vehicles or people. Then coordinate your decision with your 3D team. Using Google Maps, they can provide you with guidelines to plan effective shooting trajectories.

#3. Choosing Optimal Time for Drone Shooting

Picking the right time and weather conditions for drone shooting is vital. To make drone video footage informative, appealing, and consistent, it is best to schedule the shooting in clear weather. Avoid days with unpredictable weather as it can affect lighting and visibility.

When exactly to make drone video? Plan the shooting for late afternoon or early evening. This will allow you to capture the site in varying lighting conditions, enriching the visual material with both daylight and sunset views. Showcasing the site in different lighting can strengthen the aesthetic appeal and emotional impact of your animation.

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#4. Managing and Submitting Drone Footage

Due to the shooting’s high resolution and frame rate, you will receive large-sized files. The efficient management and transfer of these files are crucial. Uploading your drone video files to a reliable cloud service like MEGA ensures that your CGI contractor can easily access and work with the footage.

You can organize files in any way that’s convenient for you. For example, there can be either one file or a series of videos. Both are okay. But make sure that the drone files were not subject to any post-production and conversion. They must have all the original information in the file properties.

When you only start learning how to make drone video for an archviz project, it might seem like quite a lot of work. But the outcome is absolutely worth it. At the end of the day, using video drone footage allows you to save time and costs while obtaining high-quality, exceptionally realistic animations. Like this one.

Looking for a 3D visualization services provider to take your animations to new heights? At ArchiCGI, our expert team of 3D artists with over a decade of experience can help you do so. Contact us to enjoy the full potential of professional architectural visualization!

Stacey Mur
Content Writer, Copywriter

Stacey is a content writer and a CG artist. Outside of work, Stacey enjoys musicals, Star Wars, and art talk. A proud Corgi parent.

The post How to Make Drone Video for Architectural 3D Animation? A Detailed Guide appeared first on ArchiCGI.

Blogging for Architects: 7 Ways to Build Trust with Potential Clients Using It

Stanislava Mur — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 15:00:27 +0000

Blogging is a great tool for businesses to build trust with potential clients. HubSpot found out that companies with blogs attract 55% more website visitors than those without. And it’s no wonder, as according to another research, 70% of people prefer learning about a company through articles rather than direct advertising. So, high-quality blog content has great potential to attract prospects’ attention and gain their trust. This is especially important for architects. After all, their clients entrust them with significant budgets, and even more importantly, with creating their dream homes. So, how should one use blogging for architects to win ideal clients’ trust?

Our 3D rendering studio partners with hundreds of architecture professionals. So we learned how content marketing in their niche works. Wondering how architects can use blogging to foster a strong relationship with their audience? Read on!

#1. Showcase Expertise through Educational Content

Blogging allows architects to demonstrate their expertise and educate prospects about their niche so they can have clear expectations. What topics to cover to achieve that? Depending on your specialization, you can dive into sustainable design, residential design, commercial architecture, and more. For example, as a residential architect, you can share your experiences with custom home designs and renovations. In any case, you should keep your posts engaging and packed with insights.

If you only start blogging, keep some practical tips in mind:

keep a steady rhythm with your posts — don’t just start blogging and forget about it;
stick to a content calendar that focuses on what your ideal clientele cares about;
track your blog’s performance with tools like Google Analytics to see what works and tweak your strategy accordingly.

#2. Share Case Studies and Project Highlights

Blogging can benefit immensely from case studies that showcase your skills and successes. Your cases should include:

project goals;
challenges;
solutions;
results.

Start each case study by outlining the objectives. What were the targets and aspirations in the beginning? Were you commissioned to design a home, or maybe a commercial or institutional building? What were the requirements for it? Then, delve into the challenges, showcasing your problem-solving abilities and the solutions your team implemented. If you used some innovative materials, aligned the building with the landscape cleverly, or were able to reduce the budget – it’s all worth mentioning. Finally, discuss the results, emphasizing how they met or exceeded the project goals. How does the building look and serve its purpose in the end?

High-quality images and diagrams are essential in this aspect of blogging for architects. They visually support your narrative, making complex architectural concepts more accessible and engaging to your readers. Using 3D visualization for architecture is a great way to ensure you always have a steady stream of high-quality images even if your latest project is still under development or in the design stage.

#3. Offer Behind-the-Scenes Insights

Showing behind-the-scenes moments in blogging can humanize your brand and create a deeper connection with your audience. This type of content allows readers to see the people and processes behind your projects, making your firm more relatable and approachable.

Consider creating posts that offer a glimpse into the daily life at your firm:

day-in-the-life posts can detail the routine of an architect, showing everything from creating conceptual drawings to making site visits;
team interviews can provide personal insights into the motivations and inspirations of your staff;
project walkthroughs can give a detailed look at the progression of projects from start to finish.

Such behind-the-scenes content in blogging for architects can deeply engage readers, making them feel part of the architectural process.

#4. Cover Industry News and Trends

Covering the latest architectural trends and news is a crucial part of blogging for architects. When you discuss what’s new and exciting in the architecture world, it shows that you are a knowledgeable and forward-thinking expert. This kind of blogging is perfect for positioning yourself as a thought leader in the industry.

When you write about trends, bring your perspective into the mix. This helps your readers see practical applications of new trends and keeps them coming back to your blog for insights they can’t get anywhere else.

To always keep abreast of the news, you can follow respected publications like ArchDaily, Dezeen, and Architectural Digest. Online forums and professional networks are also great spots to pick up on emerging trends and innovative ideas from around the globe.

#5. Answer Common Questions

Addressing frequently asked questions through blogging is a smart way to engage your audience. It makes your website a helpful resource and also demonstrates your attentiveness and expertise.

Consider creating FAQ-style articles that answer the most frequent questions. This format is user-friendly as it allows your readers to quickly find the exact information they’re looking for. There are also significant SEO benefits to this approach. Search engines love content that answers questions, and you’re likely to attract more search traffic through your blogging this way. People often type these exact questions into search engines, so having posts that provide clear answers can boost your rankings and visibility. The basic questions might include “How much does it cost to hire an architect?”, “What is the timeline for an architectural project?”, “How to choose an architect for my home renovation?”, “How does the architectural design process work?”, and so on.

#6. Share Testimonials and Client Stories

Sharing success stories on your architectural blog is a fantastic way to boost credibility and trust. When potential clients see the positive experiences others have had with your firm, it reinforces the sense of quality and reliability of your services. Think of testimonials as the social proof that shows your firm delivers on its promises. This is what makes them a key part of blogging for architects.

When crafting testimonials, aim to outline the initial challenge, the solution your firm provided, and how happy the client was with the outcome. Be sure to include specific details. For example, a business needed to renovate a historical building while preserving its character, and your knowledge of both the latest tech and cultural context allowed you to accomplish this. Or a family wanted to renovate while making their home cost-efficient, and your addition of green technologies and smart heating helped them to do so.

Adding photos or videos of the finished buildings brings such stories to life. Visuals enhance the narrative and authenticity of each testimonial. So don’t forget to use illustrations in your blogging. It is great to use before/afters: how the place looked initially, how it was visualized in 3D, and how it turned out in the end. People love this informative eye-catching format.

#7. Engage with Readers Through Comments and Social Media

Social media is excellent for promoting your blogging efforts. Engaging with your audience directly fosters a two-way conversation and enhances your brand’s image. By sharing links to your posts on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X, you can reach a broader audience and drive more traffic to your website. This can also help build a loyal community around your blog.

To encourage more comments, ask open-ended questions in your posts or prompt readers to share their experiences related to the topic. Using a friendly and professional tone in responses will help maintain a positive online community atmosphere.

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Making the most out of the listed strategies in blogging for architects can transform a blog from a simple information-sharing platform to an interactive community hub. If done right, blogging can deepen connections with your audience, strengthen your firm’s online presence, and ultimately help you attract new clients.

Looking for 3D rendering services to ensure you always have stellar visuals to illustrate your posts? Contact us at ArchiCGI and get high-quality renderings and animation to bring your blogging and other marketing efforts to new heights!

Stacey Mur
Content Writer, Copywriter

Stacey is a content writer and a CG artist. Outside of work, Stacey enjoys musicals, Star Wars, and art talk. A proud Corgi parent.

The post Blogging for Architects: 7 Ways to Build Trust with Potential Clients Using It appeared first on ArchiCGI.

Real Estate 3D Case Studies: Selection of the Top 7 Projects by ArchiCGI

Stanislava Mur — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 15:44:39 +0000

Real Estate 3D Case Studies: Selection of the Top 7 Projects by ArchiCGI

Advanced 3D visualization has become an integral part of today’s property marketing. How does it look in practice? Our architectural rendering studio works with hundreds of real estate specialists to elevate their presentations and promo materials. From luxury villas to urban developments, we can make any project shine with CGI. For that, we offer various visual formats. The solutions include static renders, animations, and virtual tours. Interested to see them all in action and learn about their unique advantages? Take a look at our 7 best real estate 3D case studies!

#1. CGI for an Oceanfront Estate in California

The first of our case studies is about the creation of 3D rendering for real estate marketing of a luxury oceanfront estate in Carmel, CA. Here, our team had technical specifications, photographs, and environmental references to work with. Based on them, using the photo matching technique, our 3D artists created 4 photorealistic exterior renderings that effectively demonstrated the property’s appeal. The client used 3D visualizations on various real estate platforms and PR channels.

#2. CG Renders for Real Estate in Vermont

The second on the list of our top real estate 3D case studies is one about the CGI for real estate property called “City Gardens” in Vermont. DagesseCo, the developer, wanted to start pre-selling units in this boutique apartment complex. So they commissioned photorealistic CGI for the exteriors and interiors to show how the project would look when finished.

The client provided detailed references, including exterior drawings, floor plans, a Revit model of the building, and links to preferred furnishings and materials. Using this brief, our 3D artists produced 5 renderings: two exterior, two interior, and a rooftop shot. These 3D visuals focused on the modern design and comfort of the place. The imagery was used for the real estate company’s landing page and even featured in a local online newspaper.

#3. Virtual Tour for Real Estate Complex in San Diego

The next one of our real estate 3D visualization case studies is about making a virtual tour for a real estate complex called The Blend. This complex of upscale townhomes is located in San Diego, California. Commissioned by the Compass Agency, the project involved creating photorealistic 3D tours of different townhome interiors. Our 3D artist used the provided floor plans and an interior moodboard as references to create panoramic renders of the rooms. They were then joined into interactive tours with the Pano2VR program.

The resulting tours were put on the real estate project’s website, allowing the prospective buyers to get a feel of the homes long before they were constructed. This real estate 3D project is a testament to the marketing potential of this CGI type.

#4. CG Rendering for Real Estate in Florida

In this case, we created 3D rendering for real estate in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This home boasted great location and design but it was not yet finished. The realtor wanted to start marketing the residence while it was under construction – and that’s where 3D visualization came in.

The brief included technical specifications such as floor and landscape plans, along with numerous drone photos of the location. This allowed 3D artists to create highly detailed and photorealistic images showing the house from three angles: front, rear, and bird’s eye view (the latter was made using the photo matching technique). With the cost of a residence of $5 million, the 3D presentation needed to showcase the luxury lifestyle offered by the place – and it absolutely succeeded in doing so.

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The 3D images were successfully used to promote the home on online real estate marketplaces such as Zillow and Trulia. By now, the house has already found its owner. So this one of our real estate 3D case studies proves how useful 3D rendering can be for marketing efforts.

#5. Real Estate 3D Renders for a House in Chicago

In this case, we created a comprehensive set of 3D real estate renderings for a stylish home in Chicago. At the time, its construction had not yet begun, but the real estate specialists wanted to start off their marketing campaign in advance.

The scope of work involved making detailed exterior and interior visuals emphasizing modern architectural design and elegant living spaces. Initial specifications included floor plans and material references. The 3D visuals we created included three exterior renderings, four interior ones, and three 3D floor plans – all in 4K resolution. To complete the visuals faster, we distributed the work between four CG artists.

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Just a couple of weeks after the CGI project completion, the real estate company got an inquiry from a potential client. They wanted to see the house in another color scheme – and we were glad to provide a render for that too.

#6. CG Rendering for a Residential Lot in Marin County

Next on the list of our best real estate 3D case studies is 3D property rendering and animation for a residential lot in Marin County, California. It was also commissioned by Compass Real Estate Agency. Here, our 3D artists needed to showcase a residence and a guest house that could potentially be built on the lot. We used architectural models and drone footage sent by the client to produce 12 photorealistic visualizations (both interior and exterior) and an animation that showcased the property’s design and layout. The real estate company successfully used the visuals in their listings to promote the lot.

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#7. Land Subdivision 3D Animation for Magnolia Place

The last of our real estate 3D case studies is a bit different from the others. Here you can see an animated land subdivision 3D visualization of Magnolia Place in Wisconsin. It aimed to showcase the potential subdivision of the area into lots. Using drone footage overlaid with CGI, we provided two versions of the animation. One demonstrated a schematic layout and the other included 3D models of the houses to help the potential buyers imagine how the lots would look when developed. The client appreciated the result, which worked great for driving interest and property sales.

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These seven real estate 3D case studies show how CG visualization can be efficiently used to promote real estate – even when it’s in the construction or design phase. Photoreal 3D renders, tours, and animation allow realtors and developers to provide a glimpse into future properties and catch the attention of prospects early on.

Looking for 3D rendering services to boost your real estate marketing? Contact us to get top-tier 3D artists with over 10 years of experience creating stunning visuals for you!

Stacey Mur
Content Writer, Copywriter

Stacey is a content writer and a CG artist. Outside of work, Stacey enjoys musicals, Star Wars, and art talk. A proud Corgi parent.

The post Real Estate 3D Case Studies: Selection of the Top 7 Projects by ArchiCGI appeared first on ArchiCGI.

Institutional Interior Design 3D Rendering: How to Make It Appealing and Informative

Stanislava Mur — Thu, 23 May 2024 15:00:19 +0000

Institutional interior design covers spaces intended for public use. These can be museums, libraries, government buildings, offices, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities. Presenting the design of such places to stakeholders can be demanding and tricky. Here, institutional interior design 3D rendering can save the day. But what exactly should it highlight? Is it somehow different from any other interior rendering? Our 3D visualization studio has prepared 7 important tips about institutional interior design rendering for you to keep in mind. Let’s dive in!

#1. Emphasize Functionality and Practicality

Institutional spaces are primarily defined by their function. So 3D renderings must illustrate how these environments meet their specific purposes. For example, CGI should show that a modern classroom is adaptable to various learning scenarios and activities, integrates technology, is ergonomic and comfortable, and ensures safety. Similarly, a render of a hospital room should emphasize privacy, accessibility, comfort, and high-tech equipment. The specifics will depend on the particular interior and its function. However, functionality should take center stage in any institutional interior design 3D rendering.

#2. Demonstrate Safety and Accessibility

These aspects are crucial in institutional design. Spaces like hospitals and public buildings must effectively serve diverse populations, and interior 3D rendering should detail these aspects clearly, taking into account local requirements and regulations. Institutional design 3D rendering should showcase elements such as ramps, elevators, wide corridors, and non-slip surfaces. These features ensure the space meets legal safety and accessibility requirements.

#3. Focus on Cultural Sensitivity

Institutional spaces often serve as cultural hubs, representing and serving diverse communities. Therefore, institutional interior design 3D rendering needs to reflect this diversity and demonstrate cultural sensitivity integrated into the design. This can be achieved by highlighting artworks, historical references, or other relevant design elements. Showing your design as more inclusive will make it feel more relatable and welcoming for diverse groups.

#4. Include Branding and Identity

Requirements for commercial and institutional space presentations are quite similar. Both need to align with an organization’s brand identity. CGI should show how the design incorporates the institution’s logos, color schemes, and other branding elements. This reinforces the brand and creates a strong visual connection with its audience. What’s more, it helps to communicate the institution’s values and enhance its public image.

#5. Promise Positive User Experience

Institutional interior design 3D rendering should create a sense of a welcoming environment. The furniture arrangement should look comfortable, layouts should be easy to navigate, and color schemes need to be aesthetically pleasing. To add a human touch, consider using people in 3D renderings. Their presence can help set the atmosphere of comfort. Furthermore, it helps visually explain various user scenarios.

#6. Stand for Health and Wellness

Institutional designs are increasingly incorporating biophilic elements that connect people with nature. So, 3D rendering should highlight natural lighting, indoor plants, water features, and the use of natural materials. For many viewers, these elements are synonymous with well-being and productivity. Also, they emphasize a designer’s commitment to creating a healthy environment.

#7. Showcase Flexibility and Adaptability

Modern institutional interiors should be adaptable. It is especially so in schools and hospitals where technologies and approaches change quickly. 3D rendering can demonstrate this flexibility by focusing on details like movable partitions, modular furniture, and multi-use areas. Animation can be particularly effective in showing how spaces transform to serve different functions.

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An impactful institutional interior design 3D rendering goes beyond visual appeal. It represents spaces used by many people and built to last for decades. So, an effective presentation should show that your designs are well-thought-out, safe, inclusive, and flexible. When presenting to discerning stakeholders, CGI is often the most efficient way to communicate your vision.

Looking for 3D rendering services to fulfill your vision for an institutional interior design? Contact us at ArchiCGI to work with top-notch 3D artists with over 10 years of experience!

Stacey Mur
Content Writer, Copywriter

Stacey is a content writer and a CG artist. Outside of work, Stacey enjoys musicals, Star Wars, and art talk. A proud Corgi parent.

The post Institutional Interior Design 3D Rendering: How to Make It Appealing and Informative appeared first on ArchiCGI.

People in 3D Renderings: 4 Options for Your Architectural CGI Projects

Stanislava Mur — Thu, 16 May 2024 15:00:13 +0000

Adding people to 3D renders offers several benefits. Firstly, their presence helps viewers better understand the scale of architectural designs. Human figures also introduce a dynamic and emotional element to presentations. Seeing people in 3D within the context of a future building or space makes the entire project feel more real and tangible, evoking an emotional response from the audience. However, achieving this effect requires selecting the right type of people for CGI. So, what are the options?

Our 3D rendering studio is dedicated to creating visuals that are both engaging and appealing for our clients. We continually keep up with the latest technologies to enhance the quality and realism of our renders. With that in mind, we’re excited to share our expertise in adding people to CGI. Read on to learn about the available options and discover what suits your project best!

#1. 2D People

In this technique, a CG artist cuts human figures out of photos, scales them, and incorporates them into renderings using Photoshop. These 2D people are highly realistic and tend to look better in close-ups and detailed views. However, the main downside of 2D cutouts is their limited flexibility: it’s not possible to change the pose of these figures or the angle at which they were photographed. Additionally, adding 3D people to CGI can be time-consuming, as it requires significant adjustments to lighting and shadows to achieve a seamless look.

#2. 3D Modeled People

These are digitally created models of people in 3D. Compared to 2D cutouts, 3D models offer greater flexibility, allowing artists to change their poses to better match the concept of a rendering. Additionally, they require less time for lighting adjustments. However, 3D modeled people can look somewhat unnatural in close-ups, so it’s better to use them in distant views or blur them.

It’s worth mentioning that 3D models of humans are an optimal choice for computer-generated videos. You can check out our article to learn about different types of 3D people in animation.

#3. AI-Enhanced 3D People

The advancement of AI introduces new possibilities for enhancing people in 3D renderings. For instance, tools like Stable Diffusion can help refine the appearance of 3D models, achieving greater realism and better integration with the overall design. AI can improve the lighting on models to match the scene, adjust facial expressions, alter clothing, and even modify the age or ethnicity of the characters. This flexibility allows 3D artists to create more accurate and contextually appropriate visual narratives for architects and designers. AI-enhanced 3D people look realistic even under close scrutiny, which makes them ideal for close-ups or detailed shots. Above, you can see an example of AI-enhanced 3D models of people in use.

#4. Renders without People

In some cases, less is more, and it’s preferable to avoid adding people altogether. This approach is effective when you want to focus attention on the design itself or specific elements without distraction. Omitting people in 3D renders allows the viewer to concentrate solely on the architectural and design details. It provides an unobstructed view of materials, textures, and spatial dynamics.

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Choosing the right type of people for 3D renderings depends on the project’s specific goals and the desired impact on the audience. People can enliven the rendering, making it more dynamic and emotionally engaging. In other cases, they might seem distracting. As an architect, it’s important to be aware of all available options and choose the best one to convey the specific mood and message you want.

Looking for a 3D rendering services provider to help you fulfill your vision? Get in touch with us to get high-quality renders for all your needs!

Stacey Mur
Content Writer, Copywriter

Stacey is a content writer and a CG artist. Outside of work, Stacey enjoys musicals, Star Wars, and art talk. A proud Corgi parent.

The post People in 3D Renderings: 4 Options for Your Architectural CGI Projects appeared first on ArchiCGI.

Creating Real Estate CGI for High-end Residences at Amangani Resort in Wyoming, US

Catherine Paul — Fri, 10 May 2024 10:49:20 +0000

Creating Real Estate CGI for High-end Residences at Amangani Resort in Wyoming, US

Akin & Hedges Realty is a Wyoming-based real estate company with 40 years of experience. Their primary focus is upgrading underutilized properties, turning them into stunning high-end homes. Our 3D rendering studio has been working with Akin & Hedges Realty since 2021 and already completed plenty of real estate CGI projects for them. One of these projects involved creating CGI for pre-selling two properties at Amangani resort in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Located near the famous Grand Teton National Park, the resort is known for its breathtaking mountain views and luxurious accommodations.

Our task was to produce real estate renders that not only showcased the design’s excellence but also captured the unique charm of the location. In this case study, we’ll show you some behind-the-scenes materials from the project as well as the resulting CGI. Additionally, we’ll demonstrate how the renders were used for marketing. Let’s get into it!

#1. References

The client requested that we make both interior and exterior renderings for Amangani homes. For this, they provided us with a comprehensive brief.

The references included:

surrounding site and landscape entourage details;
Revit and 3ds Max models of the design;
planning approvals;
construction drawings;
Lumion renders of the design;
camera angle guidelines;
materials reference;
interior style references;
photos of the location.

Altogether, using these materials, we created 10 exterior and 23 interior renderings for two properties. Let’s take a look at the outcome of our work.

#2. CGI Projects Results

The exterior CG images for the Amangani properties include bird-eye and eye-level views of the houses, amenities, and picturesque surroundings. Most of the real estate CGI features sunny weather and daytime. In addition, we created an atmospheric rendering showcasing the property on a winter night. It emphasizes the home’s coziness through the contrast of warm interior lighting against the snowy landscape.

The real estate interior CGI includes images of the bedroom, living room, kitchen, dining room, and bathroom spaces. You can see them below.

It is worth mentioning that many of the renders feature real-life photos of the location in the background and the window views. These photos were partly provided by the client and partly sourced by our team using Google Maps. Such a method of creating CGI is both cost- and time-efficient as it eliminates the need to build the entire environment from scratch in 3D. On top of that, it ensures impeccable realism.

Now, let’s see how these renders were used in online marketing.

#3. Marketing Usage of Real Estate CGI

Akin & Hedges Realty actively used the renders on different marketing channels, including their website, social media pages, and popular real estate platforms. Here are some examples.

As you can see, now, the property is in the pending sale phase. So, a promo campaign with photorealistic real estate CGI has proved effective.

We are grateful to Akin & Hedges Realty for the amazing partnership. Our team looks forward to collaborating on more projects with them in the future.

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Looking for 3D rendering services to bring your real estate marketing campaigns to new heights? Contact ArchiCGI for visuals that will captivate your audience instantly!

Catherine Paul
Content Writer, Editor at ArchiCGI

Catherine is a content writer and editor. In her articles, she explains how CGI is transforming the world of architecture and design. Outside of office, she enjoys yoga, travelling, and watching horrors.

The post Creating Real Estate CGI for High-end Residences at Amangani Resort in Wyoming, US appeared first on ArchiCGI.

Nighttime 3D Rendering: 7 Convincing Reasons for Architects to Use It in Project Presentations

Stanislava Mur — Thu, 09 May 2024 15:00:22 +0000

Night settings transform the perception of buildings and spaces, emphasizing the important features that are often overlooked in daylight. This is why nighttime 3D rendering holds a special place in the architectural CGI toolbox. It offers a unique perspective that enhances the aesthetic, functional, and emotional appeal of a presented project.

Haven’t you been incorporating nighttime renderings into your presentation and marketing materials yet? Our 3D rendering studio gathered seven compelling reasons why you should try doing so. Let’s get into it!

#1. Nighttime 3D Renderings Are Atmospheric

Evening and night 3D visuals can convey an exceptionally captivating mood. To name just a few scenarios, a nighttime rendering may showcase:

a cozy home illuminated by smartly placed interior lights;
a warm inviting house against the snowy landscape;
vibrant city night lights;
a festive holiday or party mood;
the mystical glow of the northern lights;

and many more.

In all these cases, instead of being just informative, a nighttime 3D rendering evokes a strong emotional response. So, if you want to connect with your potential clients on a deeper level, using nighttime views is a great way to do that.

#2. Nighttime CGI Allows to See the Materials in a New Light

Materials appear different under various lighting conditions. And this should be reflected in a presentation. A nighttime 3D rendering allows you to demonstrate how the look of textures and colors change under artificial lighting. This can be particularly impactful in animations featuring a day-to-night timelapse transition. Such visuals help viewers fully understand the interplay of materials and light, enhancing the informativity of your project pitch.

#3. Nighttime 3D Rendering Shows the Appeal of Exterior Lighting Design

Exterior lighting is an integral part of the overall design aesthetic. Oftentimes, it can make or break the visual appeal of the project. Nighttime renders can be of immense help in presenting this aspect. They clearly showcase how well-designed exterior lighting schemes enhance architectural features, highlighting details across different surfaces and structures.

#4. Nighttime Renders Showcase How Lighting Ensures Safety

Beyond aesthetics, lighting is crucial for safety. This is especially true for commercial buildings, public spaces, and residential complexes. A nighttime rendering can demonstrate the strategic placement of lighting fixtures on staircases, walkways, hallways, and so on. This helps you to show clients and stakeholders that the designed environments are safe and in line with respective regulations.

#5. Some Projects Cannot Do without Nighttime 3D Rendering

Certain buildings are supposed to be seen predominantly during the night. Think of a restaurant or a nightclub. In these cases, showcasing a design in a night setting is essential. A nighttime rendering will show the project in its natural state, reflecting its vibrant life after dark. For projects designed for nighttime business, a 3D render like that can be a compelling argument in presentations or contest bids.

#6. Nighttime CGI Gives Projects More Context

Such 3D visuals ensure a better understanding of a project within its planned environment. Bright neon city lights or the tranquil twilight of suburban neighborhoods can provide a true-to-life context for the design. This enhances the perception of a project, making it easy for a viewer to imagine being around or inside that building.

#7. Nighttime Rendering Can Be Done Faster and at a Discount

If a nighttime 3D render is not the primary view within your project, it can often be produced more quickly and at a lower cost than the main rendering. Many studios, including ours, offer discounts for additional views once the initial 3D model is created. This makes nighttime renderings a cost-effective choice that adds substantial value to presentations. Check out our article on exterior rendering options to learn what other extra views you can get at a discount.

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Nighttime 3D rendering is invaluable for architects, designers, and real estate professionals. It offers a deeper insight into the aesthetic and functional qualities of a design. By integrating such a rendering into your pitch, you enhance the visual appeal and provide a more holistic view of your project.

Looking for 3D visualization services to diversify your presentations and marketing visuals? Contact us today to get high-quality CG renderings showing your designs in various settings!

Stacey Mur
Content Writer, Copywriter

Stacey is a content writer and a CG artist. Outside of work, Stacey enjoys musicals, Star Wars, and art talk. A proud Corgi parent.

The post Nighttime 3D Rendering: 7 Convincing Reasons for Architects to Use It in Project Presentations appeared first on ArchiCGI.

Dynamic 3D Visuals Types: 7 Captivating Formats to Present Your Designs

Stanislava Mur — Thu, 02 May 2024 15:00:57 +0000

High-quality visuals are vital for showcasing architectural projects. Whether it’s for a client presentation, a competition bid, or a marketing campaign, you’ll need captivating visual materials to convey your ideas. And static pictures are now not always enough to hold the audience’s attention. So, we see a rise in the popularity of different dynamic 3D visuals types that can wow even the most discerning viewers.

At our architectural rendering company, we offer various types of dynamic 3D content. Today, we’re going to talk about 7 formats that can become a game-changer for you. Let’s begin!

#1. 3D Animation

Animation is one of the most versatile and engaging types of 3D visuals. It allows architects to create a narrative around their concepts, incorporating beautiful viewpoints, transitions, effects, music, and voiceovers. This format can depict projects in different seasons or times of the day, adding depth and context to the visual experience.

Integrating 3D animation with drone footage provides a unique blend of realism and cinematic quality. However, it limits creative freedom in terms of weather and lighting conditions: they will be exactly as in the drone video. Still, it offers cost-efficiency as you don’t need to have a detailed 3D landscape built from scratch. Among other dynamic 3D visuals types, this one is particularly effective for aerial views.

#2. Virtual 3D Tour

3D virtual tours are dynamic visuals that allow users to navigate a digital environment as if they were physically present there. Such tours come in different types. With VR fusion, users can not only interactively navigate the design but also customize it. This way, VR fusion offers a more immersive and personalized experience. Virtual maps, in turn, are 3D visuals that integrate with Google Maps, allowing one to see the future project in a real-life context. Various types of 3D virtual tours are particularly useful for complex or large-scale projects, as they offer a detailed and interactive exploration.

#3. Immersive 3D Tour

Immersive tours take the virtual experience a step further by incorporating interactive elements. These tours are powered by Unreal Engine, which allows for real-time rendering of incredibly lifelike environments. Furthermore, users can actively interact with such a presentation. For example, they can change the lighting or customize the interiors.

#4. Virtual Reality

One of the most cutting-edge dynamic 3D visuals types, VR offers a fully immersive experience. It transports the viewers inside a proposed project before it’s built. By using VR headsets, users can explore every corner of a digital space, gaining a better understanding of spatial dimensions, and materials. VR is particularly effective for finalizing design details with clients, ensuring that all elements are exactly as required before construction begins. Moreover, architects can use VR to collaborate in a shared virtual space. So it’s a win-win for all the stages of a project.

#5. Augmented Reality

AR overlays digital information onto the real world. It enhances the physical environment with 3D models and data in a dynamic and engaging way. AR can be used on-site to superimpose proposed designs over existing surroundings, offering a tangible sense of scale and context. This technology helps in design presentations and increases the accuracy in the construction process.

#6. Cinemagraph

Remember moving photos in Harry Potter? Cinemagraphs are like that. These dynamic 3D visuals are pictures that include a minor repeated movement. Cinemagraphs can be used to capture the viewer’s attention in a subtle yet powerful way. In architectural visualization, cinemagraphs can highlight specific design elements or help set the atmosphere. They add life to static images and enhance the emotional impact of presentations.

#7. 360 Degree View

A dynamic 360-degree rendering allows one to rotate a realistic 3D model of a building, viewing it from all sides. Of all the types of dynamic visuals, this one is particularly useful for websites and mobile applications. 360-degree views are effective for both residential and commercial projects, offering a thorough examination from every angle.

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Various dynamic 3D visuals types can help bring designs to life and impress your audience. Professional 3D rendering studios offer a range of formats that cater to different presentation needs and client interactions. Whether through the immersive depth of virtual reality or the subtle engagement of cinemagraphs, dynamic 3D visuals are invaluable tools for architects. They help them stand out and catch the eye of potential clients or contest jury members in no time.

Looking for 3D rendering services to showcase your projects in new captivating ways? Contact us today to get visuals that ensure your designs get the appreciation they deserve!

Stacey Mur
Content Writer, Copywriter

Stacey is a content writer and a CG artist. Outside of work, Stacey enjoys musicals, Star Wars, and art talk. A proud Corgi parent.

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