A project begins when a client contacts a studio and formulates a technical assignment. The client also submits all the necessary references, such as location maps, photos, sketches, CAD drafts, specifications on materials, etc. After that, CGI specialists begin the architectural rendering process. First, they create 3D models. Then, they choose the best points of view for the images and add lighting and shading accordingly.

Next, CGI artists select secondary objects for the scenes, such as decorations, following the client’s requests. When everything is in place, they apply photorealistic textures to the models, tweak the lighting, and generate the renders. At this point, architectural CGI is basically ready. This is when they enter the final stage of the process, which is post-production. Essentially, it involves making minor improvements like adjusting brightness, contrast, and adding special effects.

When the images are ready, clients can ask for corrections. It’s an essential part of the process. Normally, a 3D architectural rendering studio allows 1-2 rounds of corrections for no extra fees. The exact number depends on a project’s scale and budget. Any corrections requested after the free rounds will add to a project’s cost.

Now, there can be variations in the work process depending on a project’s goal, the sufficiency of references, and the way the 3D visualization is done. As for the latter, there are two approaches to it. One way to do a showstopping architectural rendering project is by working only with 3D models and backgrounds.

The other way is combining architectural design visualization with photomatching. In this case, a CGI specialist combines 3D assets with photography. Usually, a 3D model of a building is incorporated into a photograph as a background. Sometimes, the photo needs a bit of additional work before a scene can be created.