Residential and Commercial Design Solutions
formally Steven Johnson Architect - Still serving North Carolina in the Triad since 2002
3D Modeling
Every project is unique.
Every budget is unique.
Every design is unique.
Every process is unique.
However, one thing that is consistent among most of our projects is the tools we use to design. 2D plans are not easy for everyone to read. 3D modeling is most useful for helping a client understand size, scale, and the feel of a space. They can easily be modified in real time and allow the owner to study multiple versions of the same floor plan without significant redesign.
Hand Sketches
Good old fashion hand sketches and renderings are a great way to quickly convey an idea in our minds to the client that is easy to understand. This tool is most helpfully in the beginning stages of the design process. It allows the client and designer to communicate clearly wants, needs, likes and dislikes. Why is this important? The more in synch we are from the beginning of the project the less changes are made through the various phases. When we can streamline the process we can maximize your time while making feel comfortably with the direction your project is going in. A few samples are below.
BIM Software
One of our most important tools is the 3-d computer model. We like building quick "study models" like the videos and static images below.
SketchUp: This program allows quick and basic 3D massing for scale. Depending on the complexity of the design (and the desires of the client) we can study elevations and basic window and door placement.
Right: these simple 3-d video models are built by Sketchup. These "exterior studies" are used to test form and materials, they are built quickly and meant to be studies, often there are multiple studies of the same design.
simple 3-d models, exterior studies
simple 3-d models, exterior studies
Modern Farm House exterior study
exterior 3-d study model
Custom Home quick study
3-d Elevation Study
Modumate: We were one of the first Architects in the country to use Modumate, a BIM style "object" based software that produces amazing 3d models. It allowed us to study sun angles, interior and exterior lighting, and can produce full construction material take-offs and material budgets. Howevery, we found something even better.
Images below are created by Modumate and represent a mixture of residential and commercial projects interior and exteriors.
Vectorworks: At this time we are working to incorporate a new BIM software called Vectorworks. This is exciting because it will give us the same abilities Modumate did (3D images) while also creating the 2D plans required for permit at the city. Why does this matter? Well, by working with a 3D software that is detailed and proficient in 2D plans, we will be better and more easily able to provide all of our clients with 3D modeling with little to no additional design time.
The possibilities with Vectoworks are endless. These models can be used to show both interior and exterior spaces. More complicated designs can show complex ceiling details and vaults, cabinetry details, artificial and natural lighting sturdies, with shade and shadow studies and property views and shade and shadow based on the project's geographic location and topography.
Images below are created by Modumate and represent a mixture of residential and commercial projects interior and exteriors.
Visit our Houzz Page for similar images.
These models are much more detailed, and allow us to study the exterior AND interior of the home, including how sunlight enters the home and other details and take much more time. They are created in the computer so that the viewer can "walk" or "fly" around the outside of the home as well as the interior.
full 3-d model, inside and out
full 3-d model, inside and out
Modern Farm House - Estate Home
Custom Home
Custom Modern Farmhouse
