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interesting to try to push for new working methodologies based on a simple
concept: the virtual model.”
“This model grew and was added to as the project evolved, and it was pos-
sible to use it throughout the process to create more traditional graphics
(rendered images, for example), whose common origin guaranteed an overall
visual coherence.”
Project Context
Although many people consider it to be a “basic” program, SketchUp can be
integrated into a rich and complex creative process, while at the same time
remaining quick and easy to use.
Technical Aspects
Since this project was based on existing building, the design process started
with a site survey and desk study, followed by importation of all the data into
AutoCAD. This laid the groundwork for future design work.
We soon realized that we would need a virtual model. Using this model, we
were able to easily visualize the impact of the many design choices throughout
the conceptual stage, something that is indispensable when working with ren-
ovations. The 3D construction of the surrounding site backed up this approach
and made it easy to take decisions that affected the overall, wider urban vision.
The model for the conceptual phase was often constructed using a fairly empir-
ical method, the volumes being drawn in space with neither a priori research
nor the use of clearly defined structural elements (walls, windows, slabs, etc.).
As the project progressed, these purely geometric objects - which were, at
this stage, fairly malleable - were transformed into groups and components
that were then organized into a hierarchy of layers, the implementation of
which makes sense of the whole project, making it more usable and concrete.
This free-form approach explains the success of SketchUp in the conceptual
research phases, since it offers a flexibility that other architectural software
that is based on parametric objects simply cannot match.
Tip
SketchUp cannot deal with groups of layers: This can make it difficult to
keep a clear overview of the project, especially when the number of layers
begins to grow large. Creating numbered categories allows you to get
around the problem and gives you a reasonable and efficient organization
(for example, 01 for the gross structure, with layers 01_Columns, 01_Slabs,
01_Walls, etc.).
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