New technologies continue to reshape the real estate industry. One standout innovation is immersive 3D tours. These tours provide lifelike, interactive experiences that let prospects and stakeholders virtually explore properties in a game-like, engaging way. Creating an immersive 3D tour, however, requires meticulous planning and cooperation with a 3D rendering studio.
So, what goes into creating a 3D tour and what can you expect when commissioning one? Drawing from our extensive experience, we’ll share a step-by-step guide on how it’s done. Let’s get into it!
#1. Compiling Project Brief
Creating an immersive 3D tour starts with gathering all the details about your project.
General details include your target audience, project goals, and timelines. Technical details may consist of:
- Architectural drawings: floor plans, elevations, and layouts in formats like PDF or DWG.
- Site information: a location plan or Google Maps link to contextualize the property.
- 3D models in STL, MAX, OBJ, or FBX formats to speed up the process (if available).
- Interior design references: moodboards, furniture and materials examples, mood and style references, and so on.
- A list of required features, such as language options or navigation controls.
This information helps your 3D team capture every aspect accurately, ensuring seamless communication and aligning expectations from the start. Check our article on what to include in an immersive tour brief for more details!
#2. Creating Virtual 3D Model
If you don’t have a 3D model of the building ready or it requires refinements, our artists will create or enhance it for you. Using the updated model and the blueprints you provide, they will craft a version optimized for real-time rendering in Unreal Engine. Next comes creating photorealistic textures to ensure the model’s realism. Then you review and approve models and textures, making sure every detail aligns with your vision.
#3. Creating the Surroundings
The third step in creating an immersive 3D tour is bringing to life the property’s surroundings. Whether you prefer a simple schematic or a detailed, realistic environment, we can create it.
Unreal Engine delivers a seamless interactive experience while allowing for the integration of advanced features. For instance, you can request options like a weather and season switch, an apartment selector, or VFX such as animated fountain water. These features enhance the realism and informativeness of the property presentation, boosting viewer engagement and evoking a stronger emotional response.
#4. Creating the Interiors
The interiors are visualized with precision to reflect the property’s intended style and functionality. Using your references, we place 3D models of your chosen furnishings and decor. Then, we create and apply custom textures to bring the spaces to life.
This step offers opportunities to include interactive elements such as furniture configurators. They allow users to personalize their experience and make it more immersive. Rooms with unique requirements, like lobbies or rooftop bars, can be given special attention based on your input. For example, we can add specific lifestyle elements or 3D people.
#5. Finalizing and Testing
The finalization phase ensures that every function of your immersive 3D tour operates seamlessly. We verify that all features perform as intended, both visually and technically. Our QA team thoroughly tests everything, including CRM integrations and interactive elements. You receive a pre-final build for review, allowing for adjustments before the final delivery.
We also conduct thorough testing to ensure Pixel Streaming delivers smooth real-time performance across various devices. Any potential issues are promptly resolved to provide a flawless user experience.
#6. Implementation and Feedback
The final step involves integrating your completed 3D tour into your platform and making it accessible via Pixel Streaming. We provide a detailed briefing and dedicated support to ensure a seamless transition. During this phase, we also address any final feedback and make minor adjustments if needed. Then, ongoing support is available to handle any future concerns.
Here’s an example of the result you can get:
Creating an immersive 3D tour is a surefire way to bring your presentations and marketing campaigns to a completely new level. The blend of creativity, technical expertise, and smooth communication between you and the 3D team can bring to life a truly impactful and memorable experience. Now that you understand the process, there’s no reason to hesitate—commission an immersive tour and enjoy the outstanding results!
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Looking for reliable 3D rendering services? Contact us at ArchiCGI to get an experienced team to deliver the most innovative CG solutions for you!
Stacey Mur
Content Writer, Copywriter
Stacey is a content writer and a CG artist. Outside of work, Stacey enjoys musicals, Star Wars, and art talk. A proud Corgi parent.