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Creating Architectural 3D Renderings for EKVA — an Award-winning Firm from California

EKVA is an architectural firm based in Oakland, California. It was founded by Dinesh Perera and Katie Handy, an architect duo passionate about designing spaces that enrich communities. Their portfolio includes commercial and residential designs, each distinguished by its unique purpose and character. To successfully present their concepts and promote services, the EKVA team needed high-quality architectural 3D renderings. For this, they decided to partner with our 3D visualization studio.

Katie Handy first contacted us in 2021. Since then, we’ve worked on four projects together. In this case study, we’ll show our workflow, the resulting 3D renderings, and how the architectural firm uses them. So, let’s get into it!

#1. Concept

To showcase our workflow, we’ve selected one of our favorite projects with EKVA: 3D renderings for Fern Canyon. Currently in development, Fern Canyon in San Mateo, CA, is designed as a contemporary office space. It’s ideal for both focused work and building connections. With airy open spaces, a striking contrast between natural wood and sleek modern elements, and abundant natural light and greenery, this project is a great example of innovative sustainable architecture.

#2. Tasks and References

Our tasks within the Fern Canyon CGI project involved creating:

  • 1 exterior rendering showing the building’s entrance;
  • 2 close-up exterior renderings showcasing the entrance’s terraced steps design and functionality in greater detail;
  • 1 interior rendering showing the public cafe.

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We received the following references for creating architectural 3D renderings:

  • Google Maps coordinates so that our 3D artists could examine the location;
  • photos of the location for the same purpose;
  • Sketchup model of the building for optimization and further rendering;
  • preferred camera angles shown through Sketchup views (you can see some of them above);
  • CG model of the neighboring building for a faster and more precise depiction of the surroundings;
  • mood references. The client specified that they were looking for a misty, somewhat ethereal setting for the main exterior view;
  • references for interior details like finishings, furniture, and plants. Katie chose many of them from our library of 3D models.
  • requirements for the placement and type of people in 3D renderings. The client requested casually dressed, ethnically diverse people, and we assisted in selecting options from our library.

Now, let’s take a look at the resulting architectural 3D renderings.

#3. Results and Usage

Aerial 3D Rendering of a Home Community
3D Visualization of a Home Community
Real Estate Render of Cottages
Real Estate Render of Cottages
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Above, you can view all the 3D renderings we created within the Fern Canyon project. They efficiently showcase its aesthetics and functionality as well as convey its comfortable atmosphere.

And here, you can see how EKVA used the renderings on their website.  

Let’s move on to the results of other architectural 3D rendering projects we’ve completed for the firm.

#4. Overview of Our Other Collaborations with EKVA

Besides Fern Canyon, we’ve created architectural 3D renderings for three other EKVA designs. Take a look.

Aerial 3D Rendering of a Home Community
3D Visualization of a Home Community
Real Estate Render of Cottages
Real Estate Render of Cottages
Real Estate Render of Cottages
Real Estate Render of Cottages
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The firm has successfully used the renderings for marketing purposes. Notably, some of these 3D images contributed to winning an AIA award

We are grateful to Katie Handy for the pleasure of working together and are looking forward to continuing our partnership.

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Catherine Paul
Content Writer, Editor at ArchiCGI

Catherine is a content writer and editor. In her articles, she explains how CGI is transforming the world of architecture and design. Outside of office, she enjoys yoga, travelling, and watching horrors.