3D rendering glossary
3D model: what it is, types and uses
A 3D model is the three-dimensional representation of a building, space or object, to scale, for studying and presenting it before it exists. It can be digital, a computer-created model that can be navigated and rendered, or physical, made from card, wood or 3D printing. In architecture it is used to design, approve and sell projects.
Digital 3D model and physical 3D model
The term is used in two senses, and it is worth distinguishing them because their uses are different.
The digital 3D model is a geometric model created with programs such as SketchUp, Revit, Rhino, 3ds Max or Blender. It contains volumes, openings, materials and, often, furniture and surroundings. From it, rendered images, videos, virtual tours and interactive applications are generated.
In practice: Render Fabrik is a 3D architectural rendering studio working with clients in Brazil and Europe, with a quote within 24 hours.
The physical 3D model is a real object to scale. Traditionally it was built by hand with foam board, wood or acrylic; today many are fabricated with 3D printing or laser cutting from the digital model. It is used in architecture studios, competitions and sales suites.
| Aspect | Digital model | Physical model |
|---|---|---|
| Medium | File on computer, web or mobile | Material object to scale |
| Design changes | Updated on the same model | Usually requires remaking parts |
| Level of detail | Realistic materials, light and furniture | Limited by scale and material |
| Distribution | Shared remotely and in campaigns | Seen in a specific location |
| Typical use | Renders, video, virtual tour, configurators | Sales suites, exhibitions, competitions |
How a digital 3D model is made
- Gathering drawings: floor plans, elevations, sections and, if available, the project's BIM model.
- Modelling: walls, floor slabs, roofs, carpentry and facade are built, respecting dimensions and scale.
- Surroundings: plot, streets, vegetation and neighbouring buildings, with the level of detail required by the final use.
- Materials: real finishes are assigned (stone, wood, glass, ceramic) with textures that react to light.
- Lighting and cameras: the sun is positioned according to orientation and time, and viewpoints are defined.
- Output: the model is converted into rendered images, animations, 360 panoramas or an interactive application.
Applications of the 3D model
Architecture: it allows checking volumes, proportions, sunlight and integration with the surroundings before building. It also makes it easier to present the proposal to the client or to a competition jury.
Property development: it is the basis of the marketing material for an off-plan development. From a single model come facade renders, communal areas and homes, sales floor plans, videos and virtual tours. An interactive model also allows choosing the property, floor and orientation on a screen in the sales office or on the website.
Urban planning: it helps explain to residents and authorities how a neighbourhood will change with a new development.
Product and industrial design: the 3D model of a piece of furniture, a light fitting or an appliance is used for prototyping, manufacturing and creating catalogue images without photography.
Common mistakes and best practices
- Modelling from provisional drawings: each subsequent change forces a review of the model and everything that depends on it. It is best to finalise a version before starting.
- Poorly scaled detail: an aerial view does not need every door handle, but an interior does. The level of detail should be adjusted to the use.
- Forgetting the surroundings: an isolated building on a white background is misleading about scale and views. The real context gives credibility.
- Generic materials: using the finishes from the specification avoids the final client noticing differences when receiving the property.
- Thinking only of one image: a well-organised model can be reused for video, tour and interactive model without modelling again.
The 3D model in a visualisation studio
In an architectural visualisation studio, the 3D model is the starting point of almost everything: from it come the renders, videos and tours used by developers and architects. If you work in Spain, you can see how it is applied to development projects on our page for Spain and in renders in Madrid. For projects that require navigation and property selection, see the interactive digital model.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a 3D model and a render?
The 3D model is the three-dimensional model. The render is the image calculated from that model, with light, materials and camera defined. One model generates many renders.
Which program is used to create a 3D model?
The most common are SketchUp, Revit, ArchiCAD, Rhino, 3ds Max and Blender. For rendering, engines such as V-Ray, Corona, Lumion, Enscape, D5 or Unreal Engine are used.
Can a digital 3D model be printed?
Yes. The digital model is prepared as a closed volume and manufactured with 3D printing or laser cutting. It is usually simplified, because very fine details are not reproduced at small scales.
What is a 3D model used for in off-plan sales?
It allows the buyer to see the property, communal areas and surroundings before construction. It is the basis of the renders, videos and tours used on the website, property portals and in the sales office.