What is 3D Architectural Visualisation? 3D Architectural Visualisation also known as CG rendering or 3d modelling, is the process by which architectural or engineering 2D plans are converted into digital 3D models and outputted as still 3D renders, photomontages and/or 3D animations. At 3rd Dimension we are able to visualise any design or concept directly from 2D AutoCad drawings or sketches. Our architectural visualisation work plays an essential role in our clients projects in the areas of design, planning and marketing. 3D Visualisation invovles a number of stages including digital wireframe 3D modelling, scene setup, texturing, lighting, rendering and finally, post production. Attention to detail and accuracy of our 3D modelling are key components that makes our 3D work stand out from our competitors. Software used by 3rd Dimension includes AutoCad, 3ds Max Design, VRay, Photoshop and the suite of Adobe products.

PHOTOMONTAGES (click to view portfolio)

A 3D photomontage is the integration of a digital 3D model into a single or series of high resolution photographs. Accuracy of such 3D imagery is vital as they are an integral part of Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) and are a crucial component in the planning process. A series of photomontages is referred to as a Visual Impact Assessment. Visual Impact Assessments & EIS reports come at the request of the planning authorities. The main objective of photomontages is to give planners an accurate and true representation of how proposed development will look like within its surrounding environment when built. It assists the local planning authority to make an informed decision on the granting of planning permission.

We always advise clients to submit a comprehensive Visual Impact Assessment showing photomontages from various different viewpoints around the site in advance of them being requested. This saves both time and money for our clients. 3rd Dimension use GPS survey information, camera matching and 3D lighting techniques to produce accurate 3D photomontages. All photomontages produced by 3rd Dimension can be substantiated and verified in a written report or by key personnel in an oral hearing.

3D RENDERINGS (click to view portfolio)

3D EXTERIORS: Our exterior 3D visuals are commonly used for marketing purposes or in addition to a series of photomontages for planning. All renders are created from exterior digital 3D models created from 2D plans & elevations. Viewpoints can be a mix of aerial and eye level viewing angles and range from close up detailed shots to more wide angle streetscape views.

3D INTERIORS: Interior 3D visuals generally involve more work due to the level of interior design that is nrmally requested. From 2D plans and sectional elevations we create stunning photorealistic interior 3D images. A good reference palette of materials, furniture fixtures and fittings is essential to ensure we achieve the desired look & feel. Our 3D interiors are a ‘must have’ marketing tool for any type of property development.

SHADOW STUDIES (click to view portfolio)

A shadow analysis gives an accurate representation of the shadows that will be cast by a proposed development on its surrounding environment at any given time of the year. It allows local planners to make informed decisions on planning applications by identifying the impact that a proposed development will have on it’s surrounding environment in terms of overcasting shadows. A shadow analysis can be carried out for any time of the day, for any day of the year. However it is generally accepted that December 21st, March 21st and June 21st at 9am, 12 noon and 3pm are the only times required by the planning authorities as they include the summer and winter solstice and an equinox. This is when the sun is at its highest and lowest in the sky and when it is directly over the equator giving rise to the same amount of hours for daylight and darkness. It is important to note that a shadow analysis is not a sunlight analysis. A shadow analysis can only show the length of shadows that will be cast. They do not show that amount of sunlight that will be received or lost from a particular development. We also cannot predict the density of the shadows or intensity of the sunlight as this would have millions of permatations on any particular day. Shadow studies are an important part of many planning application and come at the request of the planning authorities.