The ability to envision the design of a building is a skill that architects must possess. Unfortunately, many of your clients will be unable to visualize your design without the help of a visual aid. Rendering programs are used by architects to translate their creative vision into a visual image that clients can review.
Various plugins are available that can enhance the efficacy of your rendering software. Look for the following three characteristics to ensure that your rendering plugin can provide your architectural firm with as many benefits as possible.
1. Create Draft Images Quickly
An architect's time is precious. The last thing you want to do is waste time working on a design, only to find out in the presentation phase that the design will not work. A quality plugin will give you the ability to generate draft images quickly.
Draft images are low-resolution images that allow you to see how materials, color, and light are working together in your design. You will be able to make changes immediately based on the feedback provided by draft images.
This will save you a significant amount of time by avoiding the lengthy presentation-quality rendering process each time you need to check the status of your design.
2. Pair With Multiple 3D Modeling Programs
Transforming a flat image into a three-dimensional image requires the use of 3D modeling software.
It's essential that the rendering plugin you purchase for your architectural firm is capable of pairing seamlessly with multiple 3D modeling programs. Versatile compatibility ensures that you will be able to maintain the same rendering plugin no matter which 3D modeling software you choose to use for projects in the future.
3. Create Realistic Visualizations
You want your clients to feel as though they are actually looking at a finished space when reviewing your renderings. The right plugin can help you achieve this goal.
You should look for a rendering plugin that has a vast library of finishes and materials. This library will allow you to show your clients exactly how certain finishes will look on certain surfaces.
Design decisions and alterations can be made immediately based on these realistic visualizations.
You will find that a quality rendering plugin can help you improve client communication and reduce the potential for error during the design process.
No architectural firm is complete without the right rendering plugin. Take the time to evaluate your options and select a plugin that will maximize your firm's potential over time.
For more information about different plugins, like Sketchup's rendering plugin, contact a local provider.
