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In this article, we tell you what a virtual scale model is and what its main advantages are.
A virtual scale model is a practical tool used to clearly visualize an architectural project. For this, renders are used to create or simulate the volumes of any project in a three-dimensional way.
Virtual scale models are a new tool that is gaining strong momentum. If you want to know more about them… Keep reading!
Advantages of virtual scale models
Some of the most notable advantages of virtual scale models are:
- They prevent potential errors that may appear prior to construction, optimizing the cost of the same. It is much cheaper to modify a pixel than to make a change in the construction itself.
- Virtual scale models are completely interactive and quite easy to use.
- When presenting an architectural project, it is much simpler to interpret.
- You can have different viewpoints of the same space: aerial view, panoramic shots…
- Virtual scale models can be viewed from any device.
- In addition to showing the exterior or interior of a virtual space, they also show the design and construction elements and materials.
- The project’s great potential can be realized.
In this article, we detail more in depth the advantages of virtual models in the presentation of real estate projects.
How long does it take to make a virtual scale model?
What takes the most time when creating a virtual model is using the software to produce the raw image, beyond designing the scene for the render image, as this process usually lasts several days.
When developing the virtual model, rendering must be done at each phase; that is, the 3D modeling phase usually lasts a full day, the environment setting takes about 8 hours, the material textures usually take several hours, and their modification or elimination takes just as long.
Therefore, the rendering process to create a virtual model takes several hours, just to generate one image.
Uses of virtual scale models
Primarily, virtual scale models are often used for the presentation and pre-sale of real estate developments. However, they are also very popular in marketing and advertising, as they are the best way to impress clients and spark their interest in learning more about the project. This is why it is common to see renders on websites, internet ads, social media, etc.
On the other hand, virtual scale models are also used to prevent any unforeseen issues in the construction itself. For example, if in a building project with sea views, it is observed that the apartments on the first floor will not have views because there is an obstructing element, thanks to renders, it can be decided to build that floor a bit higher, thus solving the problem.
Phases for the development of virtual scale models
The process for creating a render or a virtual scale model requires several phases:
Project analysis and interpretation
The data and plans provided by the architect must be interpreted to fully understand what the project aims to convey, the materials to be used, etc.
3D Modeling
Scene design begins to create the project’s volumetry; that is, the basic structure of the project is designed, without colors.
Detailing
After 3D modeling, interior decoration and details begin to be defined. Additionally, the most suitable materials, textures, and project size can be selected.
In this phase, the lighting and ambiance of the image we are going to show in the virtual model are very important.
Rendering
In this phase, the rendering software begins to work to create a high-quality virtual image. Shading effects, reflections, blurs, textures are added… Everything that can give the project the most realistic appearance possible.
We hope this article on what a virtual scale model is has been helpful. If you need more information about virtual scale models, do not hesitate to contact us.