The SketchUp Workflow for Architecture: Modeling Buildings, Visualizing Design, and Creating Construction Documents with SketchUp Pro and LayOut

Chapter 19

Design Development Rendering

During the Design Development phase, it is often necessary to present a refined design in 3D. By doing this, you will enable the client to fully understand the design and sign off so you can quickly move on to the Construction Documents phase. Throughout the architectural design process, you will still use the modeling and organization techniques from the previous chapters, but in this chapter you’ll focus on presentation. You’ll learn how to create beautiful SketchUp animations and renderings, prepare your model for photorealistic rendering, and explore your photorealistic rendering options.

Populating a Scene

Any image you create will ultimately be used to sell an idea. Your design image should evoke excitement and the desire to be a participant in the image. You should put as much thought into populating your renderings as a realtor puts into staging a house for sale. Breathe life into the space by adding decorative objects, people, and action. Keep the following tips in mind when you’re populating a scene.

• Address your audience. Who are you selling this design to, and what will get them excited about the space? Now is a good time to think back to your first meetings when the client expressed their main desires. If they expressed a strong desire for a fireplace, show the fireplace glowing with a family gathered around.
• Add decorative objects within the ARCH - Furniture container (Figure 19-1, Figure 19-2). Tables without food, magazines, ...