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

Texture Modeling

Instead of applying a texture to imply a surface, model the applied texture character into the objects. You can create wood beams; extruded concrete and pavers; rounded roofing tile and house siding; blocks of bricks and masonry; and so on (Fig. 16.3, Fig. 16.4, Fig. 16.5, Fig. 16.6). The texture image itself is used to create the initial object.

Fig. 16.3: Instead of using a roof texture for the individual clay roof tiles, the roofing tile is modeled and placed around the roof.

Fig. 16.4: Rendering of the modeled roof tiles (Shaderlight)

Fig. 16.5: The individual paving tiles are modeled and extruded (model by John Palmer).

Fig. 16.6: The rendered version of the modeled paving is more realistic than a textured version (Shaderlight).

The following steps illustrate how this technique can be applied. Although it’s specific to wood material, the method is the same for other textures.

1. Apply a texture to the model surface. Make sure that it is correctly scaled (Fig. 16.7).

2. Subdivide the surface of the wood at the wood gaps, the areas where a joint appears ...