In architecture, as in any other art form, new tools and technologies, processes, and features appear almost daily to help bring projects to life. But no matter how many innovations the architecture industry experiences today, two basic tools stand out: 3D Modeling and 3D Rendering. Although these terms are often used synonymously, they refer to two processes with critical differences that every architect should know (obviously!) and every client who wants to order a design from the relevant specialists.

In this article, we offer you to figure out what's what. 

Why are these concepts confused? 

If you don't work closely with design, you often hear these words in tandem. 3D Modeling and 3D Rendering are both processes of 3D workflow. Because of this, you can often confuse their meaning. 

But if this is not the first time you've encountered the terminology or even worked with architects, experts in their field rarely explain apparent things to them. For example, the results of 3D Modeling & 3D Rendering are united during the presentation to show the whole picture to the client. And what is what remains an open question. 

So, let's start with 3D Modeling

3D Modeling is about the creation of 3D objects through specific software. The main point of it is to mirror a digital twin of any object in paralleling 3D space. It is a starting process in the development of interior or exterior design. 

If you think design is about pure creativity, 3D Modeling will debunk this myth. After all, this process relies to a greater extent on mathematics. All 3D models start with basic geometric shapes such as spheres, planes, and polygons. This is done by connecting points called vertices and edges to create a 3D image or commonly used 3D model.

But 3D Modeling imitates not only the dimensions of individual models. In architectural design, the placement of objects or their composition, the concept of perspective, and the logic of space are paramount. And the process of 3D Modeling allows you to display this with mathematical accuracy in virtual reality. Then, this model can be used by: 

• Architects. They use this detailed 3D prototype to create layouts;

• Builders use it to understand the scope of work and purchase the necessary materials; 

• And, of course, Designers use it to create 3D Rendering.

As you can see, it is the 3D model that is used in construction. Such a scheme allows you to plan the project and minimize risks when implementing the design into life. It lets you see the project system from the inside and clarify possible problems and obstacles before installation.

The next step is 3D Rendering

When there is an understanding of the project, everyone wants to see how the idea will turn out in the final. And at this moment, 3D Rendering comes to the rescue!

3D Rendering is impossible without preliminary 3D Modeling. The visualization process is superimposed on a detailed prototype. 3D Rendering is the conversion of 3D models into a photographic 2D image. For example, the illustrations you see on the CADdetails under the "Get inspired" tab are 2D images. 

Such an image shows not only objects in space but also light and shadows, textures and angles, and, most significantly, reflects the mood and atmosphere of the design. 

At Renderch, the 3D rendering services team, we bring a life touch to every design to reflect the greatest variety of your ideas in reality. Yes, you understood correctly if 3D Modeling is about a purely mathematical approach to the matter. And 3D Rendering leaves room for emotions and feelings.

What does a 3D Rendering process consist of? 

Seemingly unobvious processes come into play: 

1. Putting heads together

First — the idea, then — the design. At this stage, the designer works with the client to understand their sentiments and expectations for the project. The participants exchange references or mood boards and work over sketches or drafts of the project. This is also the stage where decisions are made about devices, software, and even the camera angle, which will best visualize the object.

2. 3D Modeling time

This process is already familiar. This step creates a potential design with mathematical precision. 

3. Light, camera, render!

One of the distinguishing features of Rendering from 3D Modeling is the presence of light and shadows, the volumes of the object and their harmonious interaction with the entire design code. Here is a crucial camera angle to set the tone for the game of light and shadow. This stage allows you to add materials and textures; designers call this process a material setup.

4. More aesthetics

When the basic look is done, it's detail time. The designer can add landscaping, planting, and decorative elements to bring the picture to life and make the design more natural to human perception. 

5. Baking the design

The rendering phase. All elements are combined into a single array and presented to the customer. Depending on the project's complexity, this process can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days. 

3D Rendering: more practical value

We need to recognize that Rendering takes digital marketing to the next level. Today, real estate promotion is not without rendering, as well as landscape design, reconstruction and even tourism (if we're talking about 3D tours, especially). What to speak about the promising AR and VR industries! 

But this process isn't just about high-mindedness or a beautiful picture that sells the design. It's about creating a comfortable infrastructure for living. 3D Rendering allows you to look at the final product and analyze whether it meets all your needs because any design solution must have the potential for implementation.

For example, consider power supply points if you want to make cosmetic changes to the interior. Without them, there is no way to move the chandelier to another place or rearrange the TV. You must include possible design changes in advance to avoid such a dependence. Accordingly, plan and display them first on a 3D model and then on a 3D render.

In lieu of conclusions

So, here are five things that define the critical difference between 3D Modeling and 3D Rendering:

1. 3D Modeling is the first step of design, and 3D Rendering is the final one.

2. 3D Modeling is an independent process that requires no prior work. 3D Rendering is a process that requires a 3D model as a basis.

3. 3D Modeling aims to display a copy of an object, mathematically sound. 3D Rendering seeks to visualize the idea using additional light, shadows or textures and does not require perfect accuracy. 

4. 3D Modeling displays objects three-dimensionally. 3D Rendering transforms three-dimensional objects into 2D images.

5. 3D Modeling — for more precise work like construction, on-site design, etc. 3D Rendering — for marketing and making the design perfect for life.

Author: Thomas Lore is a 27-year-old writer. As a creative and diligent freelance blogger, he is always seeking new ways to improve himself.

Cover image by Billy Jo Catbagan on Unsplash