Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 8
Modeling Architectural Interiors
Looking at blueprints gives you a good idea of the layout of an interior. Seeing simple drawings of furniture
in the same space gives a sense of scale, but a true 3D representation of an architectural design makes the
space come alive and portrays the idea in its best light. In this chapter, you'll focus on modeling architectural
interiors. This chapter covers the following:
• Modeling basic architectural geometry
• Dealing with complex sections of interior models
• Creating architectural accents and embellishments
Modeling Basic Architectural Geometry
In the previous chapters, we have dealt mainly with subdivision surface modeling. The focus in the previous
chapters was on clean loops of four-sided polygons that subdivide cleanly. In addition, there was a focus on
creating adequate amounts of geometry to create smooth curves and transitions. When creating models for ar-
chitectural purposes, you need to consider various concerns in order to create a convincing scene. This section
covers using reference images, the Pen tool, Wall mode, and Boolean operations, in addition to creating roun-
ded corners without SubDs, and proper treatment of n-gons (polygons with more than four sides). You will
also use these techniques to begin blocking an interior space that will be completely modeled in this chapter
and then textured, lit, and rendered in the next chapter.
Working with Reference Images
When modeling organic, creative, or free-form models, reference images are helpful and can be used to give
a general idea of what will be fleshed out in 3D space. When it comes to architecture, reference images (blue-
prints) are indispensible and crucial to getting the project done right. The plans that you will use when work-
ing on projects like this will range from perfect vector-based digital files (for newer designs) to scans of mi-
meographed copies that have been on file for decades. The important thing is to be as exact as possible with
the information you are given to make the end project as accurate and attractive as possible. In this case, you
will be starting with a relatively simple design of decent quality. The design you will use is shown in
Figure
8-1
.
Figure 8-1:
The basic layout that will be used as a reference for your model
