The Impact of 3D Modeling on the Architecture and Design Industry

The Impact of 3D Modeling on the Architecture and Design Industry

A few decades ago, architects and designers were using pens and bundles of white paper to create blueprints, sketches and drawings. Yet, in 2024, most architects and designers do a lot of manual work on paper because with that, they think they know how to make things happen.

But the reality is quite different for some tech-savvy professionals in the industry. Since the internet has come a long way and has helped almost every field, enabling them do work faster and more efficiently.

In those years, 2D models, drawings and graphs were popular and dominated the industry for a long time. And if you are aware of those golden days then you can relate to this.

However, those 2D models and blueprints were not attractive and satisfactory enough to increase sales and, of course, to understand the design. By having blueprints on the table, you cannot view the property from different angles and perspectives. Also, there was not much scope for improvement and change. But unfortunately, there were no other options at that time.

Now, thanks to technology. The architecture industry is growing by leaps and bounds. Innovative and tech-savvy professionals have added new dimensions and depth to the way the industry works and operates.

Almost every industry uses this technology, such as animation, graphics and, of course, construction. Because it gives a clear picture and an accurate idea of how a building will look before construction.

In creating a 3D model of a building, it takes a lot of time to collect all the necessary information like soil, measurements, weather, site location and much more. These architectural 3D models are created with the help of high-end software like AutoCAD.

With that being said, let’s get into it. In this post, we are going to understand how 3D models are changing the pace in the architecture and designing industry, why it is important, and much more.

What is a 3D building model?

In simple words, a 3D model is a digital representation of any part of any site or building, in which, sometimes, you can also include the surroundings such as roads, trees, buildings, etc. A 3D model gives you everything you need in a real house—windows, doors, bedrooms, lobbies, and even the placement of furniture and other decorative items.

All these 3D building models are created with advanced technologies using latest software. To get the exact look and feel, most architecture companies or freelance architects or designers use software like AutoCAD.

Here are some of the best architecture design software that you can use. Take a quick look:

• AutoCAD
• ArchiCAD
• SketchUp
• Revit
• All Plan
• Blender
• Chief Architect
• Cedreo

A shift from 2D to 3D architectural model

Since ancient times, architects and designers have been using simple on-paper blueprints to share their designs with potential clients. As time passed, these professionals started using 2D models, which are improved versions of simple sketches and drawings. However, the 2D architectural model displayed basic wall placement, windows and doors, stairs, ventilation areas, and of course some exterior features.

When it came to property marketing at that time, these sketches and drawings were only used as a tool. But, now with the rise of new technology advancements, these blueprints are no longer relevant and cannot provide the detailed picture which is the need of the hour.

There are many historical reasons and studies that those simple looking sketches and blueprint designs were not good for customers as well as investors. Therefore, there was a huge demand for such changes that could get contractors and investors interested in the property. Because things sell only when they are presented beautifully.

The transition from 2D building model to 3D model was quite useful and people liked it because of its detailed picture. And it worked well in the design industry. And yet, it has been one of the first choices when prototyping a model, no matter what industry you serve.

New investors, contractors, builders and real estate developers showed interest in 3D models and since then, the demand for 3D architectural building models has increased. Now, there are a lot of advanced software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, All Plans and many more, to create such desings.

What is the contribution of 3D models in the architectural industry?

As we discussed above, the rise of 3D models was entirely on the positive side; even today, many businesses around the world also prefer it. Every real estate company would like to see a 3D model before constructing a building.

When it comes to the architecture and design industry, 3D models are 3-dimensional images of a property that are close to real buildings. To give you an overall idea of how your home or office will look, it has all the necessary details, such as colors, materials and textures, depth, dimensions, walls, ceilings, floors, furniture and other exterior and interior elements.

A 3D model, in general, comes with a clear picture of how your building will look after completion, helping homeowners or property consultants understand whether they liked the design or not. This is again one of the best things, which we also personally like, that with 3D models, the chances of error and rework will be almost zero.

If your customers want to make some changes as per their personal taste, you are free to do so. Because the software has got you covered, with a few simple clicks, you can make changes and additions on the go.

After all the benefits, the contribution of 3D modeling in the architecture and design industry is immeasurable. A 3D model can be created in many ways, such as motion graphics, video animation, 3D visualization and animation, and, most importantly, walkthroughs.

At present, almost every real estate company, architects and designers are using 3D models to visualize, present or display the designs.

On the other hand, 3D models are easier to read and understand – everyone involved in the project can see and get an accurate idea of how things are going to turn out. When it comes to interior or exterior designers, they also prefer to choose this model.

Why should you use a 3D model if you are in the architecture and design industry?

Helps communicate the design

At that time, 2D models were only able to display vertical, horizontal, or diagonal lines, making it difficult to properly communicate designs. On the other hand, a 3D model allows you to communicate the design in a more detailed and efficient way. An experienced architect creates an accurate image of the client’s property by carefully analyzing your requirements. And if you’re in the construction or design field, your highest desire is to make the customer happy.

Helps with better marketing

Like you, every person would like to see their property look spacious with proper lighting. And attractive designs immediately attract attention. That is why, most real estate developers and contractors use 3D models to sell their properties. They show these walkthroughs and animated floor plans with effects to their customers, which they also use to post on social media platforms and other promotional channels.

Helps make the changes on the go  

There is much more than this. If you don’t like something in the design, you can ask your architect or contractor to make changes on the go. When showing 3D models on a computer, real-time inputs and suggestions can be made very easily. On top of that, if you want to view the design from a different angle, architects can make it happen with a few clicks.

Helps execute projects effectively

Project execution is one of the most important aspects of the architecture industry. With a 3D model of a building, the construction team can manage and execute the project more efficiently. Project managers, engineers and, of course, employees work exactly as the design is made and as the customer wants. As a result, the chance of any mistakes or rework is low, in fact, zero.

The final say

There is no doubt that this 3D modeling revolution has changed the pace of the architectural and design industry to a whole different level. Ever since the industry has adopted this new technology, the industry has got more work done in much less time and of course, under budget.

All this is possible only because the designers and contractors get to know about the potential issues at an early stage, so that they can refine them and the final result is not affected by it.

It’s no secret that the construction business is complex and requires many steps to be successful. When 3D modeling concepts were not presented to the public, there was a lot of confusion and challenges in imagining how the building would look after completion.

But now, with 3D modeling, it’s getting even better. If you want to create a 3D model of your property, we have an experienced team of various designers and architects. NakshDekho team always tries to make its customers happy with their work. Please get in touch and a member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible. Thanks for reading this article.