What is a 3D Elevation Design?
A 3D elevation is a three-dimensional representation of a 2D architectural elevation. Real estate professionals use these photorealistic renderings to showcase designs to buyers or understand design flaws. The front view is the most common 3D elevation and is usually only used. The rear is often not used when including pools and decks. East and west views are typically kept as 2D elevations.
Why do you need a 3D Elevation? Benefits and Drawbacks
3D elevations, viewed at pedestrian level, are unique because artists only develop one side of the model. This speeds up the project and decreases costs.
The biggest benefit is the significant time and cost savings prior to construction. Developing one side of a virtual home is faster and more affordable than a traditional rendering, and a fraction of the cost required to modify a physical building (structure, colors, or surroundings). Additionally, clients can often create concept 3D elevations at a low cost.
The main drawback is the limited depth and scale. While a rendering may show the front façade well, a comprehensive view is needed to demonstrate proper depth, multiple 3D buildings, vegetation, and site elements.
Cheap and Fast
2D to 3D concept elevation with DIY Render software.
Precise: 3D elevation vs. 2-sided 3D rendering.
What is Needed to Convert 2D to 3D Elevations?
To start, provide CAD / PDF elevations and floor plans to develop the 3D structural renderings.
3D elevations (precise renderings): In order to develop the color drafts we usually need are the landscape plans, site plan, and building colors / textures. Through our commenting system, we work together on improving each version of the color draft.
3D concept elevations (fast & cheap): use the “3D elevation” preset in DIY Render software. or have us do it for you. We’ll need a color & style scheme to start with.
Day, Night, or Dusk? Which 3D Elevation is Best?
Almost every project we complete has a daytime version of the 3D rendering. Once it’s built, the cost and time comes down dramatically while the impact of dusk and night renderings increase client interest exponentially.
Below is a typical 3D elevation along with it’s dusk and nighttime versions.
3D Elevation Rendering Examples
The two residential images below show a 3D roof overlaying an existing photo. For more information, explore the interactive roof visualizer and what the client chose.
