5 Reasons Your Architectural Firm Should Use 3D Rendering Outsourcing

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Gone are the days when only the biggest and most established names in the industry, with skilled 3D rendering artists in their in-house staff, could afford high-quality computer-generated images. More than ever, startups and small businesses can take advantage of top-notch CGIs without blowing their budgets, and all possible thanks to 3D rendering outsourcing.

The continuous and rapid development and growth of technology through the years have made almost everything and anything possible. In just a matter of clicks, you can reach out to the most talented and experienced 3D artists worldwide. Read on to learn more about 3D rendering outsourcing and our top five reasons your architectural firm should use them sooner rather than later.

An overview of 3D modeling 

3D modeling is a versatile and state-of-the-art technology that uses computer graphics for rendering a 3D model of almost any type of object. A 3D model is like the digital or virtual representation of an actual product for promotion, planning, and production purposes.

This particular form of modeling requires dedicated software combined with the artist’s advanced knowledge of manipulating the object in a virtual space. Points, known as vertices, are managed in 3D modeling to create a mesh. Mesh refers to the vertices forming an object in the virtual space.

RELATED: The Best 3D modeling CAD software for designers

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3D modeling is a very complex and extensive field with several sub-categories, which include the following:

 Solid modeling 

Solid modeling is most suitable for surfaces and objects that are less complex. It is the most basic type of 3D modeling. It uses different shapes as building blocks and combines them to form the desired object. It is the most basic type of 3D modeling. 

The building blocks sophistication of solid modeling is also why it serves as the foundation for all designs. Reliable modeling artists will also use basic shapes such as cubes, prisms, and spheres. The only downside to this kind of modeling is that it cannot provide high-realism results. 

Surface modeling 

Surface modeling is the most advanced and complex type of 3D modeling. It is ideal for rendering rigid surfaces and is often used for architectural 3D modeling services in the automotive industry and thermodynamics. It usually focuses more on the external aspects of a surface or an object. 

Wireframe modeling

Artists use wireframe modeling for complicated and curved surfaces. It requires more finesse, details, and precision. It only includes lines and vertices, making it more advanced than solid 3D model examples. However, it is still less complex than surface modeling. Triangles serve as the base in most wireframe modeling tools, and the result is better when the artist uses more triangles.

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Average costs of 3D modeling projects

How much will a 3D modeling project cost you, then? There is no definite answer to this question, mainly because it depends on several key factors. Would you like it done in-house, or would you go for 3D rendering outsourcing? Which company do you plan to work with? What types of projects do you need assistance with? Is it a complex project? What are your expected deliverables?

To give you a good idea, here is a quick overview of the costs of architectural 3D modeling services. However, note that these costs are only industry averages and examples, and different companies have different pricing options and plans. 

3D architectural modeling and design

These complex projects require a lot of attention to detail, making them more time-consuming than others. There are times when architectural projects need multiple renderings and models, which can be expensive. The average hourly rate can start at approximately $40 per hour for modeling, and some companies charge $400 or higher for modeling per room. 

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3D mechanical design rendering and modeling

The costs of mechanical rendering and design services are similar to those of product rendering and design. You can expect to spend anywhere from $50 to $90 per hour for mechanical 3D modeling, while rendering can cost you up to $150 per hour. 

3D product rendering and design

Product rendering and design are some of the most common and popular services that many 3D visualization companies provide today. Generally speaking, product design can cost you anywhere between $20 and $80 per hour.

RELATED: Photorealistic rendering prices: 5 Factors that affect 3D modeling costs at firms

Benefits of 3D rendering outsourcing 

3D rendering outsourcing offers a lot of benefits for architectural firms. Many companies have already attested that this practice has helped them lower their expenses in the long run. Take a look below to get a good idea of how 3D rendering outsourcing can benefit your architecture firm:

Companies that specialize in 3D rendering outsourcing offer bespoke business models

Specialized 3D rendering agencies always make it a point to keep their clients satisfied and happy. To make this possible, they often provide custom 3D modeling services. These agencies likely have long years of experience working with companies of all sizes in various fields and industries. This only means that they can easily adjust and tweak their services according to your firm’s specific needs and requirements. 

You don’t have to worry about staff and office management costs. 

If ever you hire in-house 3D designers, there will be several costs involved. You need to recruit the best talents and pay them a full salary and other benefits and taxes. You will also have to spend money on the utilities, equipment, and any tools they need. 

The average salary of 3D artists starts at around $4,000 up to $7,200 a month, which equates to $48,000 to $86,000 annually. There is also a need for you to organize or put up a workspace for your in-house designers, which can rack up the costs even further. But if you choose to outsource your 3D rendering needs, all you have to do is pay for the total cost of the services, and you are good to go. 

RELATED: The 5 best companies for 3D architectural rendering services

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3. You can save yourself from the hassle of paperwork and termination wages 

This next benefit goes hand in hand with the second point mentioned above. 3D rendering outsourcing services can help you stick to your budget. By outsourcing 3D rendering, you don’t have to fill out paperwork in addition to the contract or pay for any termination wages.

4. You can access quality resources anytime 

Today’s 3D rendering companies have to stay competitive all the time for them to maintain a steady and regular clientele. To do this, they constantly and regularly upgrade and improve their services, software, and tools. They also invest time and resources to educate their employees. All of these give you the assurance that you will always get top-notch services every time and whenever you need them. 

5 Reasons Your Architecture Firm Should Use 3D Rendering Outsourcing

If your architectural firm is still on the fence on whether you should use 3D rendering outsourcing or not, here are the top five reasons that will convince you to do so:

1. Work with the best people in the field at lower costs 

One of the biggest and most common challenges that architectural firms face is trying to keep up with the industry’s demands with the least number of people necessary as much as possible. Your company will end up burning through cash if your headcount is too high. However, having too few people on your staff will make it difficult for you to meet the demands of clients.

This area is a bit tricky to navigate. The good news is that your firm can always choose to outsource talent for projects like 3D rendering. It gives you the chance to access professionals with extensive experience in 3D rendering with no need to shoulder the costs of hiring a new employee. 

Thanks to 3D rendering outsourcing, your company can get instant access to the greatest and latest in areas such as staging, materials, interior design, and more. All of these are accessible by simply outsourcing most, if not all, of your 3D rendering needs. 

2. Harness the power of the most state-of-the-art rendering technology

The 21st century is such a wonderful time to be alive. Technology continuously provides more innovative and disruptive ways that can take your firm and your services to the next level.

These breakthroughs are also applicable in 3D rendering technology. There are now things like virtual staging software that play a crucial role in the overall quality of 3D modeling projects. 

Using the newest virtual staging software can help evoke inspiration. This results in higher conversion rates and faster turnaround that your firm wouldn’t have been able to achieve otherwise. 

The quality of 3D renderings, as you might already know by now, directly impacts the overall image of your brand. If you cut corners with your virtual staging software, this can make your firm come off as a company that doesn’t keep up with the changing times. 

RELATED: What is architectural visualization and why architectural rendering services use it

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3. Fewer mistakes and errors guaranteed 

Who wouldn’t want to invest in something that can get rid of mistakes and errors?

3D rendering professionals have the necessary know-how and experience to avoid costly mistakes in your projects. These are mistakes that might escape the eyes of someone who lacks enough knowledge and skills. Factors like using the right dimensions, maintaining a simple but eye-catching aesthetic, and decluttering the space are all critical. The whole process will be compromised if these things are not done correctly.

Even if these mistakes may not scare away your potential buyers, they can still lead to some major setbacks in your project. Companies that provide 3D rendering services know all the ins and outs of the process. These experts are also aware of the things you need so you can showcase your project to your clients with full confidence. This confidence is something that any architectural firm can never do without.

4. Enjoy the freedom of scalability to the fullest

This is probably one of the best reasons to outsource not only your 3D rendering needs but other aspects of your business as well. Flexibility is one of the things that your firm needs more than anything else. And since this is not always possible, you need to take advantage of it every chance you get. 

Just like other industries, there are usually specific times of the year when you receive more 3D rendering projects than others. If you hire an in-house talent, you still need to pay your employee the same salary even during those months when you only have a few or no 3D rendering projects at all. This option is not financially wise and practical on your part. 

However, if you use 3D rendering outsourcing, the company you work with will only fulfill projects exactly when you need them to. It doesn’t matter how big or small the project is. They will be more than willing to lend you a hand when you hire their services. 

Even more important is the fact that you can continue working with the company as your firm grows and expands. They will continue to be there for you every step of the way as you receive more 3D rendering projects. 

RELATED: How project deadlines influence rendering quality when working with 3D architectural rendering services

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5. Get a heavy load off your shoulders 

Every single day, you have to wear several hats as you go about with your business. Why bother to add one more and try to do something that you might not have any previous experience in?

Trying to be a jack of all trades but a master of none will only end up sacrificing the quality and results of your 3D rendering projects. 

Refusing to outsource 3D rendering can make a big difference between acceptance and rejection of your project idea. This is something you cannot just leave up to chance or luck. 

Free yourself of this worry instead and let someone else handle this aspect of your business process. It will give you more time to work on other pressing matters. 

While you are busy finalizing your budget for the project, searching for potential clients, and developing a marketing plan, someone else can be working on your 3D rendering. 

RELATED: The best architectural rendering companies and 3D rendering services

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When should architecture firms urgently use 3D rendering outsourcing?

If your architecture firm is still in the process of growth and expansion, there is a big chance that the reasons above have already convinced you to outsource your 3D rendering needs. The question now is, are there any other situations when this decision is something that you need to make urgently?

Yes, there are, and some of these include the following:

You are not satisfied with the available 3D talents in your area

Even if you still think that you are better off hiring an in-house team for 3D rendering, you might have a hard time finding the best talents for the job. You might not be impressed with the offers of the local specialists as you scour through resumes. 

However, if you use 3D rendering outsourcing, you don’t have to worry about restrictions on geographical location. It is now possible to hire 3D specialists with the necessary experience and expertise from all over the world. 

You only have a few 3D rendering projects and hiring an in-house 3D artist isn’t practical 

The number of 3D rendering projects you get will fluctuate depending on your specific target audience. For example, only a few of your clients may be looking for photorealistic CGI, with most of them already satisfied with basic CG visualization. 

If you only have a smaller clientele that requires 3D renderings, it might not be a sensible business decision to hire an in-house 3D expert. It will mean you need to pay salary and other perks without fully utilizing their skills and talent. In cases like this, it makes good business sense to outsource 3D rendering to trusted professionals. 

You don’t have enough time to pay full attention to 3D renderings 

Doing 3D renderings in-house can be very laborious, requiring a lot of your time and undivided attention. If you need to handle or oversee 3D rendering projects personally. Your resources will be stretched too thin and you will be kept away from more pressing matters.

To manage your 3D rendering projects better without using up all your energy and precious time, it makes sense to partner with an expert provider of 3D rendering services. 

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You lack visual content to update your social media accounts and official website

Your architectural firm needs a powerful and exciting online presence so you can attract more new clients. It means you need to have an easy-to-navigate and attractive website, and your social media accounts should also get regular updates.

You will need lots of beautiful photos of your completed projects for this to be possible. If your projects are still under construction, it might be impossible for you to have visually captivating images. Of course, it wouldn’t be a good idea to post stock images you find online.

The good news is that it is now possible to get attractive visuals for your website and social media accounts if you work hand-in-hand with a reliable 3D rendering company.

The only thing you need to do is give them your design concepts and other important details. The company will then develop photorealistic renders that show how your unfinished projects will look when completed in the future. Outsourcing your 3D rendering needs to the experts can help bring your envisioned design concepts to life.

You don’t have enough budget to invest in the latest 3D technology 

Licensed 3D rendering software and ultra-powerful hardware are necessary for 3D photorealistic rendering. This requires a significant investment, and your architectural firm might not have enough budget. 

The good news is that you don’t have to worry about these expenses because you can use 3D rendering outsourcing. You can expect to get the best quality of CG imagery with no need to invest in any expensive hardware or software.

Your 3D rendering team is already overbooked.

If you have a small in-house 3D visualization team, they can soon get overloaded as your growing business receives more projects. It won’t be suitable for your budget and your employees if you ask the team to spend long hours in the office and pay them for overtime. In cases like this, your next best option is to get help from a reliable 3D rendering outsourcing company.

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How to choose the best company for 3D rendering outsourcing 

If you have finally decided that using 3D rendering outsourcing is the perfect move, your next step is to learn how you can find the best services out there.


As the 3D modeling industry grows bigger and better by the day, it has also become crowded with various options that can make it confusing for you to choose one over the other.
Here are a few essential things to consider before you make your final decision:

3 Tips to consider when hiring 3D rendering outsourcing services

1. Start by comparing prices. 

Determine how much you are willing to spend on your 3D modeling projects, and search for companies that fall within your price range. However, it is vital to have a flexible budget since complicated tasks are often more expensive. It is also a good idea to list your favorite companies and contact them to request a free quote.

2. Assess their customer service

Due to the complexity of 3D modeling projects, means there will be frequent and constant communication between the provider and the client. Before signing any contracts, determine if your chosen company can provide round-the-clock support. Lack of proper communication may lead to negative results that won’t be beneficial for any involved parties. 

3. Review their portfolio

No company will label itself as unprofessional with low-quality services, and this means that you cannot just trust them when they say that they are the best in the field. But reviewing their portfolio can help you separate the top-notch companies from the average ones. 

The most reliable 3D rendering companies have versatile and comprehensive portfolios that showcase their past projects. It will be in your best interest to avoid companies with no portfolio to show.  

The bottom line 

As shown above, 3D rendering outsourcing is one of the best steps you can take for your architecture firm to fulfill all of your 3D modeling projects.

How can Cad Crowd assist?

We have an in-house quality control network of experts who assign projects to the most skilled freelancers and review the designs for accuracy and quality. You can hire the best professional 3D modelers and designers with proven knowledge and expertise in the field. Why wait? Take advantage of our 3d rendering outsourcing services today.