Do I need 3D visualisations for my extension project?

10 Sep

One of the most challenging aspects of any extension project is being able to visualise the finished project. Traditionally, an architect’s 2D drawings and plans are heavily relied upon, but in the modern era that is no longer the case. Traditional methods still play a prominent role, but 3D visualisations offer a fantastic way to bring your extension design to life so you get a clear vision of what your new home will look like.

What are 3D visualisations?

When you visit an architect to discuss your extension project, the traditional method would involve producing detailed plans and architectural drawings. This would give you a clearer visual idea of what the finished project would look like. While two-dimensional drawings are very useful, they do have some limitations.

Thanks to advancements in technology over the past decade, a good quality architect can use computer technology to render your planned new home in immersive 3D. This allows both the architect and client to get a much more realistic idea of what the house will look like once completed.

How are 3D visualisations created?

The process pulls together all the information included in traditional 2D architectural drawings and transforms them into a 3D digital model. This means using the floor plans and elevations, internal measurements, door and window positions and the type of materials that will be used. Using the latest CAD software, a 3D visualisation can be created using a digital model and shared as still image or walk-through video.

Is 3D visualisation worth it?

The length of time between seeing a 2D drawing of your home and waiting to see if it will come to life in the real world can feel pretty long. It means you have to put complete faith in the architect and contractors that they can translate the design accurately from paper to bricks and mortar.

You still need that level of faith with 3D visualisation, however, you will have even more assurances that any potential problem areas will have been identified before construction work begins. You can see all the angles of the property and how the extension alters the existing structure. And if you need to make a change to the design plan it can easily be altered.

3D visualisation offers an immersive perspective so you have more clarity on how your money will be spent. It also works as a cost saving exercise because it allows you to look at the finer details to make earlier decisions, instead of making costly, last-minute changes. From the brick colour, to the type of doors and windows you install, you can see it all first-hand with 3D visualisation.

While using a 3D visualisation is an added cost, it can save you much more money in the long run by ensuring everything has been checked as thoroughly as possible.

What should a 3D visualisation service include?

In order to get the most out of 3D visualisation it should give you a crystal clear vision of what the extension will look like once finished. For example, at Tereyn Architects our package offers:

3D visualisation images: This will enable you to see the interior and exterior view of the house from any angle as a still image. It also allows you to see the proposed design in full context with existing elements of your home.
3D walk-through: Instead of just seeing a still image, you can take a virtual tour of the interior and exterior of the extension, so you can really see what the finished space will look like.
Interior design: Our 3D visualisation service can also be used in collaboration with our interior design services. This allows you to design the interior at the start of the project, instead of waiting for the works to be completed, bringing the space to life.

See a photo-realistic vision of your planned extension

Using 3D visualisation software we can show you a photo-realistic version of your new extension before a brick has even been laid. You can find out more about the service by booking a free consultation service where we can explain how it all works in more detail. Call us today on 07984 760 920 or send us a message here and we’ll get right back to you.