When it comes to building houses or commercial complexes, you cannot work with guesses. You need a thorough understanding of what needs to be done and then prepare a detailed plan to do it in the most time and cost-effective manner. Every architect puts a lot of effort into creating a sustainable design that is both structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing at the same time.
The next step is to present it to the stakeholders for their approval. At this stage, the architect should explain every detail of his design to help stakeholders make the right decision. To give stakeholders an idea of how the structure would look in reality, architects prepare a real-life model of their design.
Such architectural models allow both the architect and the clients/stakeholders to see the potential scale, key features, and possible challenges of the proposed design. Traditionally, architects had to prepare these models manually, which was a time-consuming process, and it also restricted the maker’s ability to freely communicate his true vision.
Over the years, the designs became more complex due to space constraints and other socio-economic factors. Thus the need for a quick, smooth, and effective model making process becomes more urgent. Thanks to advancements in computer technology, this need was fulfilled with 3D printing and modelling. In short, 3D printing is the process of creating a three-dimensional prototype of the proposed design that people can see and touch using a 3D printer.
Owing to the ease, attention to detail, and speed that 3D printing adds to the modelling process, 3D models are now being extensively used in the architecture, engineering and construction industries. With time, architectural modelling has seen many other technological innovations as well. In this article, we will discuss a few of them.
In addition, we will also shower some light upon some new practices that are expected to enter the market by 2022. So, without wasting any more time, let’s get started!
1. Generative Design Software
Generative design software is a revolutionary approach to architectural model making which uses cloud computing to explore and create potential design solutions. The designer can simply input his design goals and specifications such as preferred materials, manufacturing methods and budget into the software. The software then automatically produces a list of manufacture-ready design alternatives. The designer can evaluate all the options and eliminate the ones that don’t fit his needs.
This can save a lot of designers’ time and give them valuable inspiration to come up with their unique designs.
2. Architectural Animation
As we already mentioned, 3D modelling has gained huge popularity. It allows viewers to visualize how the design would look in real life. It can incorporate every possible detail of the future structure, which is beneficial for both the designer and the viewers. Building on the same benefits, professionals have further extended this concept and invented ‘Architectural Animation’.
For a basic understanding, architectural animation can be looked upon as a short movie made to explain the proposed design to the audience. Designers use computer-aided design software to create 3D model animations that allow viewers to visualize a potential building in a 3D setting.
Unlike architectural rendering that only delivers a single image of the concerned structure in 3D, architecture animation employs thousands of still images to create a cinematic effect akin to that of a real camera. To give a complete real-life feel, some designers also add detailed interiors, landscaping, etc., to the animated structure as well.
3. Virtual Reality
Another trend that’s on the rise in the field of architectural model making is virtual reality technology. Using virtual reality, designers can have an enhanced architectural experience at every stage of the model making and presentation process. Virtual reality can turn an average idea into a highly saleable product from initial design conceptualisation to adding final touches.
Being an immersive technology, VR solutions can transfer viewers into a highly interactive 3D setting. This allows them to walk through and explore the designs and details of the structure as a whole and any specific area. This can also simplify the process of evaluating the relevance and soundness of the design. Since viewers can see what the structure would look like when completed, they can easily suggest the required modifications or highlight the flaws that they want the designer to rework on.
4. Smartphone Applications And Cloud Services
When talking about technology, there is no way one can go without mentioning smartphones. Like every other industry and field, smartphones have revolutionized architectural model making as well. Developers have started to create mobile applications for architectural designing, which designers can deploy at every stage of the process.
Touchscreen technology is also becoming highly popular as it allows designers to sketch directly into the software, which can later be translated into 3D modelling apps. If this is something that interests you, then Craft Group . can help you achieve it. From physical modelling to CG animation, a green screen studio and the latest interactive touchscreen technology, Craft Group. can do everything you need to build a detailed model of your vision.
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Conclusion
Technology enables designers and architects to build unique designs with ease and precision. It offers the creative freedom to explore all the possible solutions and then pick the one that serves their purpose the best. Using the right tools and techniques not only simplifies the model making process but also inspires young professionals to adopt an innovative approach.
The augmented and virtual reality solutions can help designers highlight the key features of their project and turn their vision into reality for others to understand it better. Looking at these benefits, it is fairly easy to anticipate that this particular field is about to experience some serious advancements and technological evolutions. Contact Craft Group to create innovative museums, exhibitions, stands, and events through technology.
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