3D Landscape Review

Since we have so much of our project already modeled in 3D, it was nice to build a few of Ransom’s landscape ideas into our model and test them out for scale and composition.  As we talked about earlier, it really comes down to vetting ideas as much as possible in 3D, building a real world mockup as often as possible, and only then setting the crews loose on a particular part of the project.

It’s a luxury that not every project can afford, but since it’s only time and energy for us, we want to make sure it is right from the start (then not complain or make revisions as it’s getting built).

Drawing Techniques

Using BIM (Building Information Model) software to produce drawings opens up a lot of new opportunities for envisioning spaces. As I document the project for the building permit, it pains me to have to deliver the standard 2-dimensional Plans, Elevations, and Sections. It’s not the way buildings are in reality, so why draw them them that way?! I will attempt to illustrate the project with more three dimensional drawings as a way to better describe and perceive spaces.

Structural Coordination

BIM (Building Information Model) software has had its fits and starts over the last decade within the architectural profession. Finally, it’s becoming the norm, and even consultants are picking it up. Above is the first 3D structural model that we will link into our architectural model -- and we will discover if any framing or structural members aren’t in the right place! It’s so fun to check out your drawings in the 3rd dimension vs. the abstraction of plans and elevations.... This model is being developed in Revit Structure, and it links up very nicely into our Revit Architecture model (as it should considering they are within the same software suite).

Experimenting with light

There is excellent software out there today for studying the behavior of light within a space. With a little effort, our 3D model can be explored as shown above with the rendering of natural daylight only. This helps in the placement of windows and getting a better sense of the ultimate play of light on each surface.

Additional studies here: Renderings on Flickr