3D Modelling Has Changed The Way We Design

Let me give you an example. We are working on a Care Home extension where the right choice of surface finishes and colours is really important to make sure it's a friendly welcoming environment that also appeals to the families of elderly parents who need the care.

The client asked us to test some options for flooring and ceiling panels. So how do we go about that?

The design is already drawn in detail in 3D and so we can swap out the previously allocated floor finishes with new ones (obtained from the manufacturers for accuracy}. We also changed the wall, door and skirting colours to match the ones the client likes by matching the Dulux colour using an RGB colour code.

The revised design as a 3D image file therefore combines all the different materials to create an accurate idea of how they all work together.

This approach helps us because we can check everything works together from every angle and it helps the client by giving them a vision of the design well in advance of the builders ordering and installing the finishes. That avoids surprises and mistakes that are expensive to put right and can cause delays at the end of the job.

If the design is approved, the 2D drawings needed to explain the details to the builder are extracted directly from the 3D model. That means they are accurate and fully coordinated.

3D modelling is also an excellent communication tool between Architect and client and often sparks important conversations that can avoid costly mistakes and misunderstandings.

Design Image Of "The Street" - Barton Court Care Home

Design Image Of The Bedroom Entrance Lobby - Barton Court Care Home