Architectural Visualization Course by ThinkParametric

ThinkParametric continues their project-based courses in which students learn to use software by recreating built projects with their Architectural Visualization Course: Image Planning and High Detail Modeling. The tutorials are available online for a 14-day trial, followed by a small monthly subscription fee.

This series covers the whole workflow, from start to finish, of creating a stunning interior image using a variety of software including Rhino, 3ds Max, Corona Renderer, ZBrush, Nuke, and Adobe Photoshop.

David Guardado teaches this series. David has over ten years of experience in the field as a 3D visualizer and has extensive knowledge of all the aspects of visualization.

In the first part, Image Planning, you will:

  • Gather necessary information from the client. David explains what is important to ask for and gives you some helpful tips to minimize miscommunications.
  • Look at online resources to get a sense of your desired final image, focusing on lighting, camera angles, different materials, and composition.
  • Create some white renders and combine with some material references into a collage to present to the client.
  • Export the 3D model from Sketchup to Rhino, and in Rhino conduct the geometry cleanup.
  • Export the clean model to Max to add detail to the visible parts.

In the second part, High Detail Modeling, you will go through the workflow of 3D modeling a sofa into high detail:

  • Start by collecting some additional information on how textile behaves in real life, before exporting the low poly model from 3ds Max to ZBrush. Rebuilding the sofa into a low-poly version is necessary for easy UV mapping and smoothly applying textures.
  • In ZBrush add all the detail necessary for a realistic representation of the sofa.
  • Export high definition UV material maps in Substance Designer.

More information on Image Planning and High Detail Modeling


Posted Jan 25, 2018 by Sandy McNeel on Rhino News, etc.