5 Reasons Why Your Business Should Use 3D Rendering for Construction Projects

The architectural industry has become inseparable from digital technology. In the old days, architects might draw construction plans using pencils and paper, but computers have taken over, just like in most other industries. All the calculations, measurements, and planning are possibly done on screen. While certain routines like taking notes and drawing rough sketches are still better when done conventionally, the digitalization of the architectural world reached a point of no return long ago.

One significant impact of digital technology concerns 3D visualizer services; from rudimentary sketches to comprehensive blueprints, two-dimensional (2D) drawings and physical models used to be the only methods to convey ideas visually. Now with CAD and 3D modeling software, architects are spoiled with sophisticated resources to communicate their visions to clients and investors at ease using digital media.

Houses, buildings, or architectural projects are first drawn as 3D models. The most common formats are solid and wireframe graphics. At this point, the image still looks technical and resembles a two-dimensional blueprint with many intersecting lines. The image is then transformed into a realistic image through a 3D rendering process. Retouching the image improves saturation, contrast, lights, shadows, and color balance resulting in realistic computer-generated imagery.

A render artist can create a stunning image of a building based only on construction drawings. It does not matter if the building only exists in the architect’s mind. The wonder of 3D rendering improves architectural practices from design conception to construction completion. With the help of a 3D construction rendering company, every architectural firm shall reap rewarding benefits worth the effort.

5 Reasons why your business should use 3D rendering for construction projects

1. Creates an effective communication tool

Realistic architectural 3D visualization simplifies the communication between the architect, client, and contractor. A photorealistic depiction of a construction plan eliminates (or at least minimizes) the need for technical explanations that may confuse the client. If needs be, an architect can use multiple renders of the same building – each with a different viewing angle – to provide an overall perspective. While it takes more time and money to produce a collection of 3D renders, the client feels encouraged to give feedback. The visualization helps the client understand the architect’s vision, which gives them confidence when offering input.

An experienced architect knows that some clients, regardless of the projects, are reluctant to give input. Whether the client is busy or otherwise engaged in other priorities, asking for a design idea often feels like pulling teeth. On the other hand, architects need that collaborative atmosphere to perform their duties as expected. The architect needs to give something for the client to look at, enjoy and reflect on, and a photorealistic 3D rendering studio can accomplish that.

Instead of asking the client to stare at a confusing two-dimensional construction drawing, give them imagery of the finished project. The rendering can be a still image or animation as long as it sparks excitement. The client knows how the finished project will look, so they are more willing to participate in deciding the design direction. Knowing the looks and feel of the completed construction, there must be a thing or two the client wants to modify. In any case, more intense collaboration improves the architect’s chances of doing a better job.

2. Shares an easy-to-review plan

A 3D rendering is pretty self-explanatory. The client can think of it as a “What You See Is What You Get” proposal or an open invitation to make suggestions. Now that the architect doesn’t have to make lengthy explanations of the design technicalities, the analysis and reviewing process (on the client’s side) should be brief yet thorough. Even when the client requests modifications, their description of the desired changes will be concise, thanks to a visually-clear point of reference. An architect can use the same rendering to showcase the completion stage during construction. It can be a simple comparison between the visualization and the actual work-in-progress, but it is an assurance that the project is on the right track and on schedule.

Architectural 3D rendering services, in essence, involves a digital file in image or video format. Unlike 3D modeling, which must be opened with CAD or other specialized viewers on a computer, the rendered visualization requires no specific program. It is usually saved in JPEG or PNG format for easy viewing, even on a smartphone with commonplace software. Once the construction is completed, the file is archived for future reference, which comes in handy each time the need for an update/modification arises.

If a client wants to do a significant renovation in the future, like an addition or room layout remodeling, the old file can be edited and transformed into a new plan. The architect doesn’t have to work on everything from scratch again. The new structure is usually attached or inserted into the models for a building addition to see how the structural changes affect the project.

3. Identifies problems early on

Assuming the render artist develops the visualization based solely on a construction plan, a render helps an architect identifies problems early on in the project. The issues might be related to minor components, such as windows design or landscape configuration, which require simple modification during construction. However, the architect may have to return to the drawing board if the issues concern the structural frame, building dimensions, or floor plan.

Now imagine figuring out the issues halfway through completion. The resources (i.e., time, effort, money) spent on making things right would be no less than monumental. The architect must redraw the plan, and the partially finished construction may also have to be demolished because fixing it is too much of a financial burden. When the architectural 3D rendering expert scrutinizes a 3D rendering, they may see an apparent source of trouble that’s otherwise difficult to spot on a two-dimensional layout. A structural mess might seem like a big hurdle, but it is better to deal with the problem in the design phase than during construction.

An architect or designer might not catch minor issues even with an exceedingly complex physical model. A physical model focuses heavily on the exterior, whereas 3D rendering can give an equal level of detail in all building parts. A 3D visualization is photorealistic, so everything has to be correct, from the wall color to the flooring pattern, from the sofa texture to bathroom tiles, from the countertop material to how the sunlight beams over the terrace.

4. Offers multiple options

Let us not forget that most clients will not love the first design; they like some options. A 3D architectural visualization firm with plenty of 3D rendering in its portfolio has the right resources to present several designs to the client. If the visualizations are in the firm’s repository, the architect can say that the company has built the design before. The rendering acts like a track record of accomplishments. In return, clients become more confident in the firm’s experience and capabilities.

A junior architect probably does not have the luxury of a rich portfolio, which does not necessarily mean clients will avoid hiring an inexperienced professional at all costs. Instead of aiming at big million-dollar projects, a young architect can compile 3D visualizations of smaller-scale constructions. It is also possible to present multiple renders from archived libraries and revise them as needed for originality.

The options never have to be completely different from each other. Many clients like to see several iterations of interior designs, color schemes, furnishings, flooring, and room layout. Even if the exterior designs only have one or two distinctive features, an architect can offer personalized touches on the interior. Because 3D rendering is a transformed version of 3D models, it is not that difficult to ask the 3D modeling designer to mix and match various elements from a collection of models.

5. Elevates online presence and marketing

Architectural 3D rendering gives a detailed glimpse of a building’s design and functionality. Visualization is an excellent marketing tool whether your business is in the design or construction trade. Your company might have loyal clients, but gaining new ones is the best way to expand and boost profit. Once you have developed a respectable portfolio showcased by a collection of 3D renderings, the track record becomes an invaluable resource for gaining attention from the right audience.

By publishing the portfolio online, both on your company website and social media, it won’t be long until words about your company begin to scatter around. Impress the audience with sophisticated yet understandable designs; there is no shortage of demand for those qualities. The benefit does not end with the marketing side of the business.

A 3D visualization also improves the architectural workflow with clients and contractors, thus making every project more cost-efficient. Quality renderings take time and money to complete, but the visualizations and the 3D models used for the renders are then yours to exploit. The renders become timeless assets that work to your company’s benefit.

How Cad Crowd can assist

At Cad Crowd, we have the privilege of working with hundreds of highly qualified architectural design freelancers. If you’d like our assistance, contact us today for a free quote.