3D rendering glossary
3D Design: What It Is, How It Works and Where It Is Used
3D design is the creation of objects, environments and characters in three dimensions—width, height and depth—using computer graphics software. The result is a digital model that can be rotated, edited, animated, rendered as a photorealistic image, 3D printed or manufactured. It is used in architecture, product design, games, film, advertising and engineering.
How 3D design works
Every 3D design project goes through similar stages, even if the final goal changes:
- Modelling: the shape is built in virtual space. It can be done with polygons, NURBS surfaces, digital sculpting or parametric modelling, depending on the precision and type of object.
- Texturing and materials: each surface receives colour, roughness, reflection, transparency and relief. PBR (physically based) materials reproduce the real behaviour of light on wood, metal, glass or fabric.
- Lighting: virtual light sources, such as the sun, sky and light fixtures, define shadows, reflections and atmosphere.
- Camera and composition: the viewpoint, lens and framing are chosen, as in a photograph.
- Rendering: the software calculates the final image from the model, materials and light.
- Post-production or output: colour and effect adjustments on the image, or exporting the model for 3D printing, manufacturing, games or virtual reality.
Types of 3D design
| Area | What is created | Common software |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture and interiors | Buildings, spaces, landscaping, urbanism | SketchUp, Revit, 3ds Max, Rhino, Archicad |
| Product design | Furniture, appliances, packaging, components | SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Rhino, Blender |
| Animation and film | Characters, sets, visual effects | Maya, Blender, Houdini, Cinema 4D |
| Games and real time | Navigable worlds, optimised objects | Unreal Engine, Unity, Blender |
| Advertising and motion | Campaign pieces, animated logos | Cinema 4D, Blender, After Effects |
| Engineering and industry | Machines, prototypes, simulations | CATIA, Inventor, SolidWorks |
In architecture, 3D design is usually divided into two tasks: the project modelling, done by the designer, and visualisation, which turns that model into images, videos and tours to present and sell.
In practice: Render Fabrik is a 3D architectural rendering studio working with clients in Brazil and Europe, with a quote within 24 hours.
Where 3D design is used
Architecture: the architect studies volumes, sunlight and materials, tests alternatives and shows the client how the project will look. With BIM models, the same file combines geometry and technical information.
Property market: developers sell off-plan with images of the facade, communal areas and show apartments, rendered floor plans, videos and virtual tours, all generated from a 3D model.
Product: manufacturers create catalogue and e-commerce images without photographing, test colours and finishes and show versions that have not yet been produced.
Entertainment and advertising: films, series, games and commercials use 3D design to create what would be expensive, dangerous or impossible to film.
Trends and innovations in 3D design
- Real-time rendering: engines such as Unreal Engine and Twinmotion allow you to see the nearly final result while working and create navigable experiences.
- Artificial intelligence: AI tools help generate textures, upscale images, remove noise and explore quick style ideas, but still rely on an accurate model to represent a real project.
- Virtual and augmented reality: the client enters the environment with a VR headset or sees a piece of furniture in their own room via mobile phone.
- Digital twins: 3D models connected to real data monitor construction and building operation.
- Scanning and photogrammetry: real objects and sites become 3D models from photos or laser.
Best practices in 3D design
- Work at real scale: correct measurements prevent proportion problems and make file exchange easier.
- Organise the model: layers, clear names and groups save time on revisions.
- Adjust detail to use: an object that appears in the background does not need the same geometry as one in the foreground.
- Use references: photos of real materials and environments are the best basis for realism.
- Take care with light: a good model with bad lighting looks fake. Lighting defines much of the quality.
3D design in the work of a visualisation studio
An architectural visualisation studio uses 3D design to turn plans into images that communicate and sell. Render Fabrik applies this process in architectural visualisation for developers and architects and in product rendering for brands. Examples are in the portfolio.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between 3D design, 3D modelling and rendering?
3D design is the complete process of creating something in three dimensions. Modelling is the stage of building the shape. Rendering is the stage where the computer calculates the final image from the model, materials and light.
What is the best software to start with in 3D design?
Blender is free and covers modelling, animation and rendering. For architecture, SketchUp is the simplest to start with. The choice depends on the area you want to work in.
Does 3D design require a powerful computer?
For modelling, an intermediate computer is usually enough. For rendering complex scenes or working in real time, a strong processor, plenty of RAM and a good graphics card make a difference.
How long does it take to learn 3D design?
The basics of a software can be learned in weeks. Reaching professional results, with good materials, lighting and composition, takes months or years of practice.