Typically projects are designed, understood and presented through the use of traditional drawn conventions. Home Architecture Studio uses a combination of hand sketches and computer aided design (CAD) drawings for this purpose.
When working with existing buildings there is a real-life building to relate to and physical comparisons to see and make. So for some people, the use of a tape measure and making markings or discussing walls to come down or move, can get you a really good feel for how the project will look. However as peoples spatial awareness can vary wildly, often developing a 3 dimensional model is a great way to help them visualise any proposed changes.
In the past this would have been to produce an actual physical model which you could pick up, look around and touch. This is a fantastic method for demonstrating a concept and clients love them. However as they can take a lot of time to make, can be costly and are difficult to modify. Therefore these days, they are produced less often.
This is where computerised 3D modelling has now certainly taken over. Computer 3D models could be categorised as two distinct styles. Loose ‘sketch’ version and the photo realistic detailed option. Sketch versions are a really useful design tool to get the fundamentals of the spaces and their relationships with the existing building. Whereas, detailed photo realistic options are amazing and can really show how a building will be in its finished arrangement.
Home Architecture Studio likes to use a mixture of both options to convey our concepts to clients. We use a software called Sketchup to create the 3D models. It is not overly complicated to use and can deliver results reasonably fast. Up to two days modelling time will produce something to share with clients to demonstrate new spaces and gauge initial feedback. Photorealistic renders are created through the use of V-Ray, which takes more time refining the model looking at materials, decorative features and lighting etc.
Below are some examples of how Home Architecture Studio use both methods to demonstrate ideas to clients. Not all clients need or want it as it does take time therefore is not included within our standard service option.
