In games, movies, and television, we can appreciate the many applications of 3D modeling. In addition to these applications, 3D modeling is also reinventing how we visualize architectural designs and construction projects. 

Instead of flat 2D drawings, living spaces come to life like never before, giving clients as well as real estate companies new ways of working and presenting their work to clients. 

Video renders and 3D virtual tours are extremely helpful tools that enable clear communication between the architect, their clients, and contractors. However, it doesn’t stop there; 3D models provide an accurately scaled-down model that precisely depicts what the finished product will look like.

3D modeling services are available in simplified and highly-detailed, exact models, depending on what a particular project requires. But how are these simulated spaces created? One of the key principles that modelers use is geometric theory 3D modeling. If you’ve wondered how these impressive models are created, you’ve come to the right place.

We break down geometric theory 3D modeling in this article to help you gain a better appreciation for it!

What Is Geometric Theory in 3D Modeling?

3D modeling uses geometric theory to model different objects and shapes that are used in architectural designs and drawings. To accomplish this, a mesh is created to make a basic shape with the help of polygons.

Polygons are 2D shapes that consist of:

• Vertices or vertex points – the meeting point of two or more edges
• Edges – the lines that outline a shape and are connected at vertice points
• Face – the surface shape of the polygon

These three elements are used to create differently shaped polygons such as:

• Hexagons
• Pentagons
• Diamonds
• Rectangles
• Triangles
• Squares
• Trapezoids
• Parallelograms

These 2D polygon shapes are combined and manipulated to fit different measurements and designs, ultimately creating 3D meshes. These meshes fit scaled-down measurements of a space based on architectural drawings.

Though polygons’ sides are all straight lines, the shapes can be manipulated to create curves, allowing designers to create accurate and realistic 3D design renders. 

In short, geometric 3D modeling refers to real models which are designed based on meshes. Meshes have different geometric shapes and polygons that are put together to resemble the 2D drawing or design created by an architect.

Geometric Theory 3D Modeling: How It Works

We know by now that 3D models rely on geometric shapes and polygons to create a 3D rendition of a design called a mesh. Mesh modeling, in turn, is based on a vertex, or a single point in a three-dimensional space that is connected to other vertices with straight lines.

Triangles with three vertices and four-sided polygons are the most common shapes used in geometric modeling. The different groups of polygons are connected by shared vertices to create an element. The polygon of an element is called a face.

To create, connect, and render them, 3D programs use a grid with 3D coordinates that function similarly to 2D coordinates. The only difference is the existence of a Z axis, which adds depth to the grid.

Primitive shapes are pre-made geometric objects that can be used to create different models. Standard Primite Objects or Common Primitives are the most basic of these shapes, consisting of cubes, cylinders, spheres, cones, and pyramids. These act as a starting point, and can then be edited as required to achieve the desired shapes and measurements so that the 3D model accurately reflects the design.

Shapes are meshed together through connected vertices or faces. For example, a tower can be designed by placing a cone on top of a cylinder. On the other hand, a simple building can be made using cubes of different measurements attached to each other.

Important Ideas and Elements In 3D Modeling

3D modeling requires technical skill so the modeler can create an accurate rendition of a design. To successfully render a space, the modeler must be familiar with references, proportions, and measurements.

Reference

A reference refers to the original drawing, image, grid, measurement, or object that a designer uses to render a 3D design.

References provide familiarity. They help maintain clarity and accuracy when creating models or renders so that the resulting 3D model resembles the original design idea.

Proportion

Proportion is the most crucial concept in any type of design work, especially those related to creating 3D models. Ensuring that none of the elements in a model are disproportionate and fit together properly is extremely important for creating an accurate and useful 3D model.

This involves precise measurements and comparisons while scaling figures up or down, to get the right dimensions and proportions of the final 3D render.

Measurements

Measurements and proportions are technically related, but they’re separate ideas in the sense that proportion can act as a ratio, while measurements are a lot more precise.

The beauty of geometric theory 3D modeling is designers can create extremely accurate renditions with precise measurements that go beyond geometric shapes.

For example, adding an element that one knows the approximate size of, such as a human figure, allows the designer to create a more accurate visual, and viewers can gain a better perception of the actual scale and size.

Additionally, measurements are important because it’s easy to get carried away and forget the larger picture when adding fine details. Measurements ensure that the size and proportions of the bigger elements are correct before smaller details are added.

Benefits of 3D Modeling

As you can imagine, 3D modeling is extremely helpful in the construction and real estate industry for several reasons. From architects, designers, contractors, real estate agents, and clients, every stakeholder in designing, building, sales, and marketing can benefit from 3D models.

Here are some specific ways in which 3D modeling is useful:

• Provides accurate visuals, reduces miscommunication and mistakes
• Improves the design process, making it more efficient and quicker to identify and address issues
• Optimizes construction, encourages creativity and experimenting
• Allows all interested parties to gain a better understanding of the finished product, even before a project is even finalized
• Enhances collaboration 
• Saves time, effort, and resources that go into making and changing blueprints 

Because of these benefits, everyone in the design and construction process, including clients, find renders useful.

• An architect or designer can express and communicate their ideas more clearly and precisely with a detailed 3D model.
• Clients can provide feedback based on a visual simulation of the proposed design, with fewer opportunities for miscommunication. Changes can be implemented easily.
• Contractors can make informed decisions during the construction process since they can get a more thorough understanding of what the final product is supposed to look like. It is thus easier to assess what is needed and to set expectations.
• Real estate agents can help potential buyers enjoy more realistic renditions of properties, without needing to physically visit them or wait for projects to be completed.

Conclusion

From concept to sale, 3D models are extremely important for any real estate project.

Plus Render can help you create realistic, detailed, and accurate 3D models for a wide variety of applications. Based in Bilbao, Spain, our company creates high-quality 3D renders and architectural spaces as well as infographics. 

Let us help you breathe life into your designs and projects. Send us a message or visit the Plus Render website today.