3D Modeling and Visualization

Farre+Stevenson Architecture develops three-dimensional models, photorealistic renderings, photomontages, animations and immersive visualizations for architecture, interior design, landscape projects and existing buildings. These tools support design, verification and communication from the preliminary concept stage through detailed development and presentation.

Three-dimensional representation is not approached simply as the production of attractive images. It is used to understand spatial relationships, proportions, materials, light, construction and the relationship between a project and its context before the proposed work is built.

From drawings and surveys to a three-dimensional model

A 3D model can be developed from different types of information, depending on the nature and stage of the project.

Source material may include:

plans, sections and elevations;
architectural surveys;
BIM and HBIM models;
point clouds and photogrammetric data;
photographs and documentation of existing conditions;
sketches and preliminary concepts;
structural and building-services drawings;
topographic and landscape information.

The required level of detail is defined according to the purpose of the model. A preliminary study model does not require the same level of development as a model intended for photorealistic visualization, technical coordination or documentation of a historic building.

3D modeling for architectural design

During the design process, a three-dimensional model makes it possible to assess aspects that may be less immediate in two-dimensional drawings alone.

The model may be used to evaluate:

building volumes and proportions;
relationships between solid and void;
the position and size of openings;
interior circulation and spatial sequences;
stairs, level changes and vertical connections;
relationships between indoor and outdoor spaces;
materials, colours and finishes;
natural and artificial lighting;
potential conflicts or inconsistencies within the design.

The model may be updated progressively as the project develops, allowing visual material to remain coordinated with the current architectural proposal.

Architectural rendering

Rendering makes it possible to represent the anticipated appearance of a project before construction. The degree of realism and detail is selected according to the design phase and the intended audience.

Farre+Stevenson may develop:

preliminary renderings for comparing alternatives;
photorealistic interior and exterior images;
daytime, evening and night views;
material and finish studies;
competition and presentation images;
visualizations for clients, investors and public authorities;
images coordinated with architectural drawings and reports;
visual material for publications and professional communication.

During the early stages of a project, a simplified representation may communicate the spatial strategy more clearly than an excessively detailed image. More advanced stages may require a higher level of realism, material definition and contextual detail.

Interior renderings

Interior visualization allows space, materials, light, furniture and use to be studied together.

The service may include:

selection and development of viewpoints;
modeling of architectural elements;
placement of furniture and equipment;
study of flooring, wall finishes and ceilings;
simulation of natural light;
representation of artificial lighting;
comparison of colour and material combinations;
testing of alternative design solutions.

These images can support decision-making and reduce misunderstandings between the architect, client, suppliers and contractors.

Exterior renderings and contextual visualization

For buildings, extensions, façades and outdoor spaces, the three-dimensional model can be used to evaluate the relationship between the proposed intervention and its surroundings.

Exterior visualizations may represent:

new buildings and extensions;
changes to façades and roofs;
terraces, courtyards and gardens;
building-envelope materials;
screens, pergolas and shading devices;
planting and landscape design;
relationships with neighbouring buildings and public space;
different daylight and seasonal conditions.

Photomontages and visual-impact studies

A photomontage combines a three-dimensional model with a photograph of the existing condition. It allows the current situation and the proposed intervention to be compared from the same viewpoint.

Photomontages may be useful for:

evaluating façade alterations;
representing extensions and new volumes;
testing signs, screens and external equipment;
presenting landscape proposals;
documenting works within protected settings;
supporting planning and approval applications;
comparing design alternatives from a fixed viewpoint.

For a photomontage to be reliable, perspective, camera position, scale, lighting and the relationship between the model and the photograph must be controlled carefully. The image should clarify the likely effect of the project rather than artificially minimise or exaggerate it.

Landscape visualization

Landscape visualization must consider not only the initial arrangement of the site but also the way planting changes over time.

Landscape images may illustrate:

garden and terrace layouts;
paths, paving and seating areas;
pergolas, screens and built elements;
planting composition and density;
seasonal variation;
sun and shade conditions;
relationships between interiors and outdoor spaces;
the mature scale of important plant species.

Visualizations support the landscape-design process but do not replace planting plans, schedules, construction details or the technical information required for implementation.

Modeling existing buildings

Three-dimensional modeling can also be used to document buildings and spaces that already exist. The model is developed from surveys and available documentation, with an accuracy appropriate to the objectives of the commission.

It may support:

documentation of existing conditions;
understanding of complex geometry;
representation of historic buildings;
reconstruction of construction phases and previous alterations;
adaptive reuse and renovation studies;
comparison between existing and proposed conditions;
BIM and HBIM development;
production of explanatory views and sections.

Photogrammetry and three-dimensional survey data

Where appropriate, modeling may be supported by photogrammetry and other digital-survey methods. Photogrammetry reconstructs forms and surfaces through a controlled sequence of photographs.

The resulting information may be used to:

document façades and architectural elements;
record irregular surfaces;
capture decorative elements and details;
generate point clouds and three-dimensional meshes;
support surveys of outdoor areas;
integrate models of existing buildings;
preserve a digital record of the surveyed condition.

The precision and completeness of the result depend on access, visibility, lighting, geometry and the equipment used. The method must therefore be selected in relation to the specific site and the purpose of the survey.

Integration with BIM and HBIM

Visualization models and BIM information models serve different purposes, but they can be coordinated.

A BIM or HBIM model may provide a geometric and informational basis for:

producing three-dimensional views coordinated with the project;
reviewing materials and building components;
coordinating architecture, structures and building services;
updating images during project development;
representing existing, demolished and proposed conditions;
documenting complex buildings and construction phases.

Where the model is intended primarily for visual communication, it may instead be optimised for rendering, animation and real-time navigation without including unnecessary technical information.

Architectural animation

Animation presents a project through a sequence of viewpoints and movements, making it possible to communicate spatial relationships that may be difficult to explain in a single image.

An animation may include:

approach sequences and exterior movement;
walkthroughs of interior spaces;
transitions between indoor and outdoor areas;
changes in light during the day;
comparison between existing and proposed conditions;
presentation of the principal architectural decisions.

Duration, resolution, camera movement and level of detail are defined according to the purpose of the animation, the available model and the agreed production programme.

360-degree views and immersive visualization

Panoramic 360-degree views and navigable environments allow clients to explore a proposed space before it is built.

They may be used to:

understand dimensions and relationships between rooms;
evaluate viewpoints and circulation;
compare different design solutions;
present interiors, installations and commercial spaces;
communicate projects to clients who are not present on site;
support remote meetings and design reviews.

The method of access is selected according to the devices available and the actual requirements of the project, without depending on a specific brand of headset or proprietary platform.

Natural light and artificial lighting

Light has a major influence on the perception of space, materials and colour. Visualizations may therefore be developed using geographic orientation, date, time and intended lighting conditions.

Lighting studies may help evaluate:

the penetration of daylight into interior spaces;
shadows produced by buildings and shading devices;
the size and position of openings;
the appearance of materials under different lighting conditions;
the distribution of light fittings;
the atmosphere of spaces during evening use;
the relationship between functional and accent lighting.

Architectural images do not replace formal lighting calculations where these are required, but they can complement them by helping to assess the qualitative experience of the space.

Materials, colours and finishes

Visualization makes it possible to compare material and finish options before purchases and construction decisions are finalised.

The project may examine:

flooring and wall finishes;
plaster, paint and decorative surfaces;
wood, metal, stone and composite materials;
windows, doors and shading devices;
fixed and movable furniture;
textiles and interior components;
materials for façades and outdoor spaces.

A digital image remains a simulation. Its appearance may vary according to screen calibration, lighting and the physical properties of the actual product. Samples and direct inspection remain necessary for final material selection.

Supporting communication with clients

Models and visualizations can make design discussions clearer, especially for clients who are not accustomed to reading technical drawings.

They may help to:

present alternative design proposals;
explain differences between similar options;
verify expectations and priorities;
share the project with clients based abroad;
coordinate decisions involving several stakeholders;
record the development of the design.

Available outputs

Depending on the commission, the following outputs may be produced:

three-dimensional models;
perspective and axonometric views;
interior and exterior renderings;
photomontages;
360-degree panoramic views;
animations and short videos;
explanatory three-dimensional diagrams;
comparisons between alternatives;
images for presentation boards and reports;
digital files in agreed formats.

Defining the commission

Before work begins, the following are agreed:

the purpose and intended audience of the images;
the drawings, surveys and models available;
the required level of detail;
the number and type of viewpoints;
the required degree of realism;
the materials, furniture and landscape elements to be represented;
the resolution and delivery format;
the number of design revisions included;
the programme and intended use of the final material.

The quality and accuracy of the result also depend on the completeness of the information provided. Design changes introduced after modeling or rendering has begun may require the model and previously produced images to be revised.