Architectural CGI for Developers, Planners and Estate Agents
So much of what we do at Imagefix is about visualising people’s ideas online. Our websites, and graphic designs often start out as a conversation with a client. We listen to their vision for their business, their passion around a product, and from their words, descriptions and gestures we create a design that will represent them online.
We are now delighted to be able to offer a new service which builds on this aspect of our work. Architectural CGI allows us to produce images of properties whilst they’re still at the design stage. We are regularly asked by developers, planners and estate agents to create websites for potential buyers of properties that are in the process of construction; property CGI is the ideal solution in these circumstances.
What is Architectural CGI?
Not so long ago, architectural visualisation required a lengthy process in which a 3D model of the property was created and then photographed. An acceleration in the speed of computers’ processing power now allows the rendering process to happen online in a fraction of the time, and with an increased range of visualisation possibilities.
The Property CGI Production Process comprises:
Site Photography – we take photos of the site where the houses are being built in order to capture the lighting conditions and the context created by the natural environment.
3D Modelling – using CAD drawings, a 3D model of the property is created. Finishes are then added, such as the texture of the bricks, or sunlight reflecting on windows.
Rendering – the CGI model is ‘situated’ within the context captured by the onsite photography. The model information and finish is then rendered. Now the image looks like a high quality photograph.
Post Production – this is where all the detailed work is done. Masking is applied to ensure the property CGI looks ‘real’ within its surrounding environment, contrast is applied, and people may be added for scale.
Turning a plan, blueprint or concept into a 3D image in our heads is a specialist skill – and it’s one many clients don’t have. Which is why architectural CGI is invaluable when you’re in the business of innovation, research and development, or planning.
Estate Agents use 3D rendering to pre-sell plots in development, but there’s a whole range of applications it can be used for. Imagefix is currently working with clients on visualising processes, animating ‘how to’ guides, demonstrating interior design, and showing off new products.
1. Before & After Images. When all you have to sell a product is words, a before and after image can help enormously. Architectural CGI gives you the potential to demonstrate an existing ‘before’ and a transformational ‘after’. We’re able to provide this service for housing planning, car repairs, environmental effects and interior designers.
2. Process Animations. Ever tried selling a product that requires detailed instructions on how to make it work? Architectural CGI allows you to throw out the manual – at least for the sales presentation – and demonstrate using an animation instead. Imagefix recently created a video for a client needing to demonstrate how a fuel management system operates.
3. Fly Throughs. Beloved of estate agents and property developers, but increasingly being used by decorators, interior designers and even event planners. The architectural CGI technology allows you to experience ideas in action, make changes and try out alternatives. Being able to see how a floor covering, or new kitchen will look in situ completely transforms how you’re able to sell.
4. Building Exteriors. The extraordinary level of detail that can be achieved by architectural CGI allows house buyers to get a real sense of their new home. Not only do clients experience the texture and look of the build, they’re also able to see it in the context of the local geographical features, and its proximity to neighbouring builds.
The property development sector is growing fast, and innovation is playing a critical role. Buyers are no longer satisfied with a few generic images of their potential investment; they want to see exactly what their future home will look like.
Property developers are starting to market their properties by personalising them for their buyers. Maybe their vehicle is parked in the driveway outside, or perhaps there are a range of images with different brick colours, window frames or front doors to choose from.
The Imagefix team can manipulate CGI imagery in Photoshop to create personalised property photos, without losing quality. Suppose a buyer wants to see a property with bricks a certain colour, their selected window frames and a purple front door. We can create it for you!
Architectural 3D Visualisation is Collaborative
One of the things the Imagefix design team really enjoy about working with architectural CGI is the collaborative aspect of the process. From the early stages when the site photography is carried out, clients and architects are closely involved in deciding on the contextual design which will eventually be used as a high resolution photograph.
Imagefix Provides a Range of CGI Services for Clients
With our experience in 3D rendering we understand the importance of constantly evolving our services to meet customers’ requirements. At the heart of everything we do is our desire to help businesses amplify their business presence online, and we are always looking for new and innovative ways of doing that. Architectural visualisation is now used to create a range of services including virtual tours of properties, 360 room views, design propositions and property.
If you think that 3D visualisation could help your business to get noticed, call us today on 01525 715608 to start a conversation about how we could help. Our design team is full of good ideas and we’re always excited to talk through new projects with clients, whatever stage they’re at.
