Introduction:

Dubai has been an emerging hub for real estate for a long time now both in terms of residential and infrastructure projects. To support this big infrastructure push, it is becoming increasingly important that projects are completed within strict timelines and right quality. There has been increased focus on how we can further optimize the time of overall project including design and construction. 

Technological changes are at the forefront of such optimization efforts to reduce time and cost of such projects. It has become very important to freeze the design very early with the help of 3D design so that site re-work is minimized. For achieving most effective 3D visualizations, they play a key role in creating 3D blueprints which provide a foolproof documented design with complete details.  It makes site execution easier and enhances the overall confidence of end client also. At the same time to make these 3D visuals and 3D blueprint on time, it is essential to have a quick and skilled 3D visualizer in the design team.

Who is a 3D Visualizer?

A 3D visualizer is a creative professional who is responsible for transforming architectural drawings, interior layouts and design concepts into three-dimensional digital representations. These visuals can range from conceptual images to realistic renders which resemble the final building built. 

Many people use the terms 3D visualization, 3D rendering and CGI interchangeably, but they all are different terms. Visualization focusses on representing the design concept. While rendering is the process of technically generating images and CGI refers to the broader category of computer-generated images.

Types of 3D Visualization Services Required

Before proceeding ahead with the hiring process, it is necessary to know about the 3D visualization services which are required as per your project requirements. The most common services which might be required often are as below: –

• Exterior 3D rendering services for buildings
• Interior visualization for rooms, offices and retail spaces
• 3D walkthroughs and flyover animation
• 360- degree virtual tours
• Furniture and 3D product visualization

Industry sectors where 3D visualizers are important

3D visualizers play a crucial role in various industries. Some of these are:-

• Architecture and urban planning
• Interior design
• Real estate and property development
• Retail, hospitality and commercial fit-out

3D Visualization for Residential and Commercial projects

It is necessary to hire a 3D visualizer who has the right qualifications as well as desired experience for the role. This helps in enhancing project clarity, efficiency and success. With the help of high-quality layouts, stakeholders can understand the layouts, materials, lighting and spatial flow. Thus, the right 3D visualizer not only pitches his/her ideas in the form of presentations but with help of these layouts and drawings, they can represent their architectural visualization in better ways.  3D visualizer is equally important for both residential and commercial projects.

While working on commercial projects, strong visualization can help in the following ways:-

• Investor and stakeholder presentations
• To get approvals from regulatory authorities
•  For executing branding and marketing campaigns

On the other hand, while working on residential projects strong visualization can help in the following ways:-

• Connecting homeowners emotionally with the design
• Helping designers to align expectations with reality
• Reducing-last minute changes

Skilled visualizers aim at minimizing miscommunication, speeding up the decision-making process and saves costs by identifying design issues quickly during the planning stage.

Key Differences between 3D visualizer for commercial and residential projects are as follows:-

Benefits of hiring 3D Visualizer

• It is difficult to understand traditional 2D design and technical drawings. 3D visualizer provides very realistic rendering of overall design, and one can clearly see the design and suggest any modification in terms of materials selected and elements of design.
• One of key benefits of 3D visualization is customization and personalization which is an important factor for residential projects. Elements like home office setups, kids and pet zones, storage space, silent areas can be easily visualized and customized as per customer’s requirements and preferences.
• It minimizes the communication gap between different stakeholders like architects, interior designers and contractors. It acts as a common tool where everyone can clearly see the intent of design and any modifications done in course of project design and execution
• 3D visualization can help choose right fixtures, flowing, wall finishes by simulating their behavior during sunlight and artificial lights. Therefore, it helps choose the right material and palettes, which is especially important for bathrooms and kitchens.
• Optimized lighting design is another important element of 3D visualization. By combining natural and artificial lights and simulating the overall effect during daytime and nighttime, It helps to avoid dead corners, provides balanced design with right color temperatures.
• 3D visualization allows any design flaws, mismatches between different elements to be detected at early stage. It helps to avoid reworks, delays are minimized and site execution is smooth.
•  Designs created by 3D visualizations are used during marketing and publicity campaigns. 3D static images, walkthrough videos are being used by major companies to market and provide realistic experience to potential buyers. 

Steps required to hire 3D visualizer

Following steps are required to hire a 3D visualizer for any projects

• Define project scope
  

•  The first step is to define the scope of project. Scope means type of project, how many revisions or renders will be required, intent of project (for design or marketing), output requirements (for example animated walkthrough or images with overall presentation of design). The project can also focus on 3D visualization of commercial apartments and 3D visualization of commercial apartment doors and 3D visualization of commercial apartment windows also.
• Budget
• Depending on the scope of work and extent of design, it is important to fix a budget and accordingly look to hire 3D visualizer.
• Define timeline
• Timelines for the work to be assigned to 3D visualizer need to be carefully derived from the overall project execution cycle.  

• Portfolio reviewS
• It is of utmost important to review the projects implemented so far to ascertain whether it matches with project scope.  It is also very critical to assess the software used are industry standards.

• Finalize deliverables and contract terms
• For big projects especially, it is important to compare quality and cost from at least 2 parties. Therefore, interest freelances or companies should submit their price along with preliminary design proposals. While selecting the final entity, it is important to agree to deliverables during design stage, payment terms.

Skills to look for in a 3D visualizer:-

To hire a 3D visualizer, technical skills are primary requirement but other skills like string communication, broader design understanding, software proficiency, understanding of local laws and regulation is equally important as well. 

• Software proficiency

A potential 3D visualizer candidate must have expertise in the following industry standard tools. Some of these tools are 3Ds Max, Blender, Sketchup, Lumion, V- Ray or Corona Renderer.

• Design and Architectural Understanding

A strong 3D visualizer, must be well-versed in architectural and design principles such architectural drawings, floor plans, Interior layouts and ergonomics, materials, finishes and lighting principles. Thorough knowledge of design and architectural principles will help in creating 3D visualization of commercial apartment doors and 3D visualization of commercial apartment windows.

• Attention to Detail

Another important skill for a 3D visualizer is to pay attention to details. These details can be in the form of realistic textures, correct proportions and precise lighting. An experienced 3D visualizer must avoid even the smallest errors which can make the renders look artificial.

• Time Management and Flexibility

Every design project has tight deadlines and often goes through multiple revisions. A reliable and consistent 3D visualizer should be able to stick to timelines and make corrections according to the feedback given.

Thorough knowledge of all these aspects ensures accuracy and makes the final output look realistic. It also helps in smooth 3D visualization for commercial apartments and 3D visualization for real estate also.

Where can one find Professional 3D Visualizers

For big commercial and residential projects, it makes sense to hire design studios which are specialized firms with professional teams and can ensure consistent quality. Design studios in UAE, have a mix of local and global talent to offer best design while maintaining the right local culture mix. Design Studios need to be formally approached to provide technical and commercial offers. 

Freelancers are also available in this profession on online platforms such as fiverr, upwork.  Compared to design studios, these offer cost effective design. They can be hired from across the globe as well ensuring best practices. Recruitment agencies can also help in finding experienced 3D visualizers for long-term or in-house roles.

Future Trends in 3D Visualization

3D visualization is going through lot of changes due to advancement in technology. One such trend is integration of virtual reality into 3D which can provide immersive experience. Another important development is AI powered rendering which provides faster outputs with increased realism. Use of cloud collaboration techniques is also helping teams share design and work across different parts of globe. Interior and exterior design companies must keep pace with all these future trends in 3D visualization to stay ahead in the design and architecture market.

Conclusion:-

As the design and architecture market is constantly evolving, it is necessary for candidates to be updated with necessary skills. Furthermore, it is necessary for hiring managers and candidates to also be aware of the future trends in 3D visualization.

FAQs

What does a 3D visualizer do?

3D visualizer can convert 2D design into realistic renders, virtual walkthroughs with animation to help clients envisage or visualize their homes or commercial projects before construction.

Why should one hire 3D visualizer?

3D visualizers with their 3D design can provide precise rendering of design intent and fine-tune further as per customer’s requirement. It minimizes rework during site execution by making the design elements realistic and precise. Selection of material selection, color of elements can be selected with better understanding of overall design.

Which projects require 3D visualization?

Any project where overall aesthetic matter can utilize 2D visualization. It can be residential (apartments, villas) or commercial (Retail stores, hotels, offices). 

How is 3D visualization different from 2D drawings?

2D drawings show two dimensional layouts with dimensions whereas 3D visualization provides realistic rendering along with walk though providing immersive experience making it easier for clients and other stakeholders to understand the design.

What skills should a 3D visualizer have?

3D visualizer needs to be proficient in software like in 3ds Max, SketchUp, Blender, V-Ray, Lumion. They should understand different elements related to architecture and interior design. Knowledge of local laws and regulations is also required.

Where do I need to look for professional 3D visualizers?

Professional 3D visualizers are available on specific online platforms like Upwork, Fiverr. They can be also found through local recruitment agencies and network of architects and designers.

What are the inputs required by a 3D visualizer?

Typically, 3D visualizers require 2D architectural plans, lighting criteria, mood boards and material/style preferences.

Can a 3D visualizer also create VR or 360° tours?

Yes, 3D visualizers most often provide virtual reality renders and 360° tours. It provides a real life and immersive experiences. It is advised to agree upfront with 3D visualizer for this service

How many revisions are required for 3D visualizations?

Number of revisions will impact on the cost directly. It is preferred to limit them to maximum 2-3 per stage.

How should one judge 3D visualizer’s portfolio?

Portfolio should be checked for diversity in style and type of projects. Lighting and material selection should be realistic and multiple views should be consistent.

Why does one require 3D visualization if I already have 2D drawings?

It is preferred to have 3D visualization as 2D drawings show only two-dimensional layouts with dimensions. 3D visualization provides real life immersive designs making it easier for clients and other stakeholders to understand the design.