Architectural rendering
Architectural rendering, architectural illustration, or architectural visualization (often abbreviated to archviz or ArchViz) is the art of creating three-dimensional images or animations showing the attributes of a proposed architectural design.
Common types of architectural renderings
[edit]Architectural renderings vary by output (static images, animations, VR), view (exterior, interior, aerial), and style (photorealistic, sketch, watercolor, collage), helping visualize buildings from concept to completion, focusing on atmosphere, detail, or technical aspects for different audiences. Key types include still images (photos, photomontages), animations/walkthroughs, and interactive VR/real-time views, categorized by what they show (inside/out/above) and how (realistic/artistic).[1]
Computer generated renderings
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Images that are generated by a computer using three-dimensional modeling software or other computer software for presentation purposes are commonly termed "Computer Generated Renderings".[2] Rendering techniques vary. Some methods create simple flat images or images with basic shadows. A popular technique uses sophisticated software to approximate accurate lighting and materials. This technique is often referred to as a "Photo Real" rendering.
Renderings are usually created for presentation, marketing and design analysis purposes. They often stretch the imagination by design, aimed at telling stories of designs. However, some of these stories may be more factual than others, which can be criticized for misleading clients and the public. Architects often simply omit railings at altitude in renderings, aiming for minimalism.
For instance, architectural desgn journalist Kurt Kohlstedt argues that trees on tall buildings are often represented in ways that defy physics -- not reacting, for example, to high winds which would be vertical trees, interrupt photosynthetic properties, and subject geenery to potentially deadly heat and cold. [3]In short: renderings don't always refect the real challenges that architects and builders will have to face in moving from schematic design to building execution.[4]
Education
[edit]Traditionally rendering techniques were taught in a "master class" practice (such as the École des Beaux-Arts), where a student works creatively with a mentor in the study of fine arts. Contemporary architects use hand-drawn sketches, pen and ink drawings, and watercolor renderings to represent their design with the vision of an artist. Computer-generated graphics is the newest medium to be utilized by architectural illustrators.
During the past 20–30 years, many professional architectural illustrators came from an education in architecture first, then moved into the profession as their (mostly self-taught) skills in illustration progressed.
Hand-drawn renderings or architectural illustration
[edit]Until 3D computer modeling became common, architectural renderings were generated by hand. There are still architectural illustrators who create renderings entirely by hand, as well as illustrators who use a combination of hand drawing/painting and computer generated color and/or linework. Common mediums for hand-done architectural renderings include: watercolor, colored pencil, gauche, and graphite or charcoal pencil.
Awards
[edit]- The Hugh Ferriss Memorial Prize is awarded by the American Society of Architectural Illustrators in recognition of excellence in the graphic representation of architecture. It is the Society's highest award.[5][6]
- The CGarchitect Architectural 3D Awards are awarded by CGarchitect.com in recognition of outstanding achievement in the field of computer-generated architectural rendering. The awards were started in 2004 and award in five main categories: Best Architectural Image, Best Architectural Film, Best Student Image, Best Student Film, Best Interactive Presentation/Emerging Technology..[7]
See also
[edit]- Concept art
- Museum for Architectural Drawing, Berlin, Germany
References
[edit]- ^ "Rendering Styles: Different Techniques and How to Achieve Them)". Retrieved 2025-12-24.
- ^ "What Is Architectural Rendering? (with pictures)". Retrieved 2015-06-27.
- ^ Kohlstedt, Kurt (May 11, 2016). "Renderings vs. Reality: The Rise of Tree-Covered Skyscrapers". 99% Invisible. Retrieved December 24, 2025.
- ^ Kohlstedt, Kurt (April 12, 2016). "Parisian Treescraper: Vertical Mixed-Use Planter Will Also Room People". 99% Invisible. Retrieved December 24, 2025.
- ^ "The Hugh Ferriss Memorial Prize". American Society of Architectural Illustrators. Retrieved December 24, 2025.
- ^ Filler, Martin (December 18, 1986). "Architecture: The Midwife of Genius". The New York Review of Books. Retrieved December 24, 2025.
- ^ "CGarchitect 3D Awards Winners Announced". ArchDaily. August 15, 2018. Retrieved December 24, 2025.
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