Rendering in SketchUp: From Modeling to Presentation for Architecture, Landscape Architecture and Interior Design

Method and Reference Guide

This book describes specific methods and can be used as a reference guide. The linear progression describes the rendering process. Some chapters provide specific settings for texture values and list exact modeling components useful for detailing and precise rendering settings.

Both the process and reference aspects of the book are intended to be read more than once; they should be reread and referenced while working on your models.

The Modeling Process

The methods and applications in this book have two universal aspects that allow great versatility and easy learning. The method for preparing your model for rendering is the same regardless of which IRP you use. This is true for IRPs not reviewed in this book and for future IRPs that will surely be developed.

You will be working in SketchUp to generate the model geometry, apply textures, and set up lighting using the SketchUp Shadow menu. The IRPs all reference the same factors and settings to generate renderings. This allows you to pick and choose which IRP you want to use and easily experiment with different IRPs.

Similarly, the book’s modeling process is useful when working with studio rendering programs (applications that require you to export your SketchUp model). Although more complex to use, these applications reference the same information (more or less) from the SketchUp model.

Because of the uniformity, a good portion of this book focuses on how to add appropriate detail, organize, and richly ...