Architectural animation

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Architectural animation is the art of creating three-dimensional images and videos illustrating an architectural proposal. As opposed to architectural rendering, which essentially creates a "flat" image, architectural animation lets the viewers see the proposed building from 360 degrees. It is even possible to create an environment around the building to see the its relation to the surrounding area before it is being built. Architectural rendering is often used along with architectural animation. In combination with agent based microsimulation software like VISSIM the animated architecture can even be populated, to communicate architects' plans best to the general public.

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[edit] Who uses it

Commercial demand and computer-generated rendering are on the rise, but three-dimensional models are often seen to be more attractive, more accurate, and more popular. Typically members of the AIA (American Institute of Architects) and NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) prefer to use 3D animation and rendering models for their customers before starting on a construction project. Those who provide animation and rendering are usually small animation studios and companys.

[edit] Future

Architectural animation is considered to be very "fancy" by most small firms simply because of the cost to create an accurate 3D model. Three-dimensional architectural animations take a bigger team of artists and animators and much longer time to make than architectural rendering. However, many architectural firms are now opening their arms to architectural animation because it attracts investors and customers who may not know much about building designs. In other words, architectural animation is considered to have a bright future ahead of it as more and more architects are turning to three-dimensional models instead of two-dimensional pictures.

[edit] Examples of architectural animation

  • Architectural visualization:
3D rendering
3D walkthrough
3D demo of city planning
3D demo of landscape planning
Restoration of ancient architecture
  • Animation:
Rendering
Simulation of product and engineering design
  • Virtual Reality:
Digital sand-table system for city/community planning
GIS (Geographic information system)
Multifunctional educational system
Simulation and restoration of cultural heritage and ancient architecture
Virtual shopping mall

[edit] See also

[edit] External links