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Why Homebuilders Prefer 3D Modelling

22 November 2021
Shalini John
3D CAD modelling services

Nothing beats getting things right early on in an expansive project. In the world of large homebuilding projects, a minor miscalculation can lead to disastrous effects, which makes it essential to plan and design as accurately as possible. As the dependency solely on 2D drawings for building design slipped effortlessly into the sphere of modelling in 3D and generating drawings from those models, several benefits began to emerge for homebuilders and other project stakeholders. Increasingly, the ample availability of professional support in 3D architectural modelling, 3D CAD modelling services and architectural 3D rendering services established 3D modelling as one of the mainstays in homebuilding design.

In the race to build faster, smarter and be a distinct, noticeably different competitor, builders are banking on technology to add to their efficiency. Transitioning from the use of only 2D drawings to 3D digital modelling has been both necessary in today’s world and beneficial.

Why so?
  • 2D plans come alive in 3D, enabling stakeholders to visualise and understand design.
  • Customers, engineers, designers, architects and contractors can easily communicate and collaborate using 3D models.
  • With a 3D model, it is possible for everyone concerned to be on the same page throughout the duration of project design and during its development.
  • Identifying and resolving expensive challenges before construction becomes easier.
  • Modelling a house before construction enables clients to know exactly what it will look like, make any modifications and eliminate any problems.
  • 3D modelling accurately represents the materials used in a home and helps making cost and material estimations.
  • 3D models can accurately represent 2D architectural, structural, civil and MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) drawings, making it easy to identify and resolve clashes between disciplines, saving costly expenses.
  • Useful as a marketing tool, 3D modelling can show spatial details and finishes to clients.

The art and science of 3D modelling in homebuilding has been ably helped along the way with a host of specialised software tools. For instance, SketchUp by Trimble is user-friendly and can help model projects in 3D while including even minor details, such as studs, bolts and outlets. Both Revit and ArchiCAD have also proven immensely useful in the 3D modelling genre, especially as Revit is a BIM-compliant software tool.

How can 3D models identify common problems before construction?

Some of the common issues that 3D models can identify include:

  • Bearing walls, point load, and continuous loads with no bearing below
  • HVAC issues, such as misaligned floor duct chases and obstacles for supply and return ducts
  • Dimensional discrepancies between architectural drawings and engineered components
  • Toilets and other plumbing drains directly above specified floor systems
  • Roofing issues not observed in 2D that become obvious in the 3D models
  • Missing details for specific framing-related features

These are some of the ways that 3D modelling can help detect clashes, help owners evaluate design options and enable homebuilders to get approvals before materials are ordered.

So, what are the different kinds of 3D modelling that large homebuilders can use to suit their needs?

Wireframe
  • Also called edge modeling, wireframe modelling outlines a 3D object or space and using polygons to fill the space between the lines.
  • It is an easy and fast method of making 3D visualisations or for quick presentations.
  • However, this can work only for simple designs and not for complex projects.
3D CAD Modelling
  • Using complex algorithms, computer-aided design (CAD) turns 2D images into 3D.
  • It can be used to develop 3D models of simple homes and high-rise buildings.
  • These models are accurate and can help clearly visualise exterior design.
  • Colour palettes can be easily changed and detailing can be added.
BIM Modelling
  • An intelligent type of 3D modelling, Building Information Modelling (BIM) helps architecture, engineering and construction professionals collaborate on a project.
  • A 3D model is generated showing the building’s physical and functional features.
  • Every project stakeholder can see the building as a whole.
3D Interior Modeling
  • The types of 3D modelling mentioned above accurately represent the technicalities of the building.
  • For marketing, 3D interior modelling can help make every room look attractive.
  • Interior modelling in 3D can modify every detail of interior spaces, such as furniture pieces, decorations, surface finishes, colours, lighting, etc.
CGI Visuals

Using CGI (computer-generated image) visuals developed from 3D models are detailed, beautiful and induce conviction in potential investors and buyers.

Furthermore, one of the additional advantages of using 3D modelling for large homebuilders is saving on expensive revisions by using mixed reality developed from 3D models. A smart phone, tablet or an AR/VR device can be used to take potential customers through 3D models at 1:1 scale.

With an increase in popularity of 3D modelling in homebuilding, it becomes necessary to find reliable and technically qualified support to deliver high-quality 3D architectural modelling, 3D CAD modelling services and architectural 3D rendering services. Experienced Revit and ArchiCAD users can also deliver ArchiCAD 3D modelling and Revit modelling services of a superior level. Western firms are currently sourcing these services overseas for fast turnaround times, technical expertise and to stay within budgets.

XS CAD has valuable experience providing 3D architectural modelling services for homebuilders, general contractors and design consultants. Our range of services for global firms across the world include 3D architectural modelling, architectural 3D rendering services, ArchiCAD 3D modelling, Revit modelling services, and other 3D CAD modelling services. We offer retained teams when required, and we create these models, drawings and BIM services by using Revit, AutoCAD and BIM Collaborate Pro for cloud collaboration.

Learn more about our homebuilding design and BIM services.

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