In the dynamic world of design, the journey from a simple idea to a tangible 3D model is an intricate process that demands creativity, precision, and technological prowess. Whether it's a product, an architectural structure, or a piece of art, the design process plays a pivotal role in how Alyson and the P+P collective team bring imagination to life. Let's embark on a fascinating exploration of the stages involved in transforming a concept into a detailed 3D model.
For the purpose of illustrating these steps, we are showcasing a current project: Aspen Cabins I + II and how we applied this process to create four custom primary king bedroom ensuites. Since this project is a STR (Short-Term-Rental) Luxury Cabin, and vacation home for the investors to use with their own families, we wanted to be sure that the design reflected the markets desire for a traditional cabin feel in a modern way, so focused on an “Aspen Transitional” design style.
Something that our own market research has shown is a tendancy for STR investors in particular to “rinse and repeat” for the designs for each bedroom. While its convenient for the cleaning and maintenance staff for quick turnovers, we feel at P+P that it’s a missed opportunity for a more attractive listing on booking sites. If every room photographs the same, then it looks as though you just took multiples of the same photo. Assigning the same floor plan to each suite, but changing out the key design elements on the otherhand adds a lot more interest, and renters tend to be drawn to designs that utilize color and texture. 2024 trends show a return to more traditional spaces that reflect authenticity and eclecticism, and we couldn’t be happier to usher in the use of color again!
Our CEO and Design Principal Alyson says
“Vacation Homes and STR properties have had a great boom in growth since COVID, but in 2024 the boom is sadly over, and now the market is more saturated with lots of competition. It’s more important, now more than ever, for investors to invest in an actual design concept to stand out amongst the competition.
It's even more important to use someone with actual design background who understands space planning, materials sciences, and human behavior so once they click and book on your listing, they become repeat clients after staying in your tailored luxury vacation home. Our goal is for renters to leave thinking ‘Why would we stay anywhere else?’”
Here’s a detail breakdown of the design process we use:
1. Research and Analysis:
Before a project even starts, we are constantly educating ourselves on the latest in design, market trends, building science, and technological advancements. Maintaining this healthy curiosity throughout the year gives our team a great foundation to make informed decisions that evolve to successful designs. Understanding industry best practices for user preferences, materials, and functionality ensures that the design is not only visually appealing but also practical and feasible. Thorough research sets the parameters and informs the subsequent stages of the design process on all P+P projects.
2. Ideation:
Every great design begins with a spark of inspiration. Ideation is the stage where concepts are brainstormed, refined, and eventually chosen for development. This phase involves sketching, mind mapping, and gathering reference materials to crystallize the vision. A clear understanding of the purpose, audience, and constraints is crucial at this stage to lay a solid skeletal framework for the upcoming design journey.
3. Conceptualization and Sketching:
With a well-defined concept, designers move on to sketching. Hand-drawn sketches or digital illustrations allow ideas to take shape visually. These sketches serve as a blueprint, helping designers explore different iterations and refine details. This phase encourages creativity and experimentation, laying the groundwork for the more technical aspects that follow.
4. Digital Drafting and 2D Design:
The transition from traditional sketches to digital drafting brings the design one step closer to reality. Using Professional Sketchup, Alyson begins to form the space with defining hard dimensions, ensuring spatial clearances are best practice or better, analyzing proportions, and incorporating design principles. The 2D design serves as a guide for the subsequent three-dimensional modeling phase.
5. 3D Modeling:
The heart of the design process lies in 3D modeling. Software like Blender, SolidWorks, or Rhino enables designers to build a virtual representation of the concept. For P+P we use Professional Sketchup as it is quick, and allows for easy alterations later in the project as we develop, and is easily exportable to the General Contractor later. This step involves creating a detailed, realistic, and functional model by extruding, subtracting, and manipulating virtual shapes, and building the established space plan up vertically. Designers double check proportions, ergonomics, and how the space flows during this phase.
6. Early Specifications for Key Design Elements as Anchors:
Once the 3D model is built out, Alyson and the P+P team begin brainstorming materials and construction detailing like custom millwork and cabinetry concepts, architectural features like archways or timber trusses. These concepts can be illustrated out with photo representations, sketches, or included in the 3D model itself. Key design elements that take the focal point of a room or area are developed to help set the tone architecturally. Something that makes our process a little different is we also get into the interior décor key design features for a truly cohesive design from architectural down to the minute details. These early specs set the tone for developing the entire project.
7. Texturing and Rendering:
Adding textures and materials transforms a basic 3D model into a lifelike representation. Designers apply surface details, colors, and finishes to enhance the visual appeal. Rendering, the process of converting the 3D model into 2D images or animations, provides a realistic preview of the final product. This stage allows designers to evaluate the design and show the client how the space will really feel.
8. Review and Refinement:
No design process is complete without thorough review and refinement. A good designer will always take a collaborative approach with the client, gather feedback, and make necessary adjustments. Iterative refinement ensures that the final design meets the intended objectives, adheres to specifications, and addresses any concerns raised during the review process.
The journey from idea to 3D model is a multifaceted adventure that blends creativity, research, and technical expertise. Each stage contributes to the evolution of a concept into a tangible, visually stunning, and functional design. As technology continues to advance, the design process adapts, offering endless possibilities for creators to push the boundaries of imagination and bring innovative ideas to life.
コメント