With the rapid evolution of architectural visualisation, Architects are amazed by the change this technology is bringing to the industry and to their clients. Architectural visualisation refers to “seeing” architectural designs before they are built. It ranges from basic sketches to sophisticated 3D renderings and interactive virtual tours.

Previously, Computer-generated architectural visualisation was only capable of replicating buildings in three-dimensional models. Today, visualisation tools are able to bring life to renders through creative colour combinations, perfected lighting, selected scenery and scenarios as well as detailed textures. The combination of modelling and architectural elements has breathed fresh life into the industry, pushing companies to leapfrog their designs and processes.

Architectural visualisation specialists, such as Vizform have found that the visualisation styles offered to clients can now convey the specific elements and emotions they require, making the projects delivered to clients tailor-made. Here are the leading visualisation styles that are currently trending in the industry;

The Whodunit

This style is focused on cold or dreary backgrounds, which is achieved by desaturating the image or using the dominant colour of this style; grey, green and blue. The colours and technique give an audience the impression of a dark, almost post-apocalyptic scene giving it the ability to tell a story.

The David

The David is a style that has a utopian feel to it due to the perfection in the elements designed. This specific rendering style resembles imagery that omits any imperfections in reality. The delivery is therefore flawless which infuses a utopian atmosphere around the image, making it more idealistic than realistic. Many designers who use this style add bright lighting to complement the backgrounds. This style is usually used to render structures of luxury hotels and shopping centres. 

Watercolour Style

By using the Watercolour style, designers are able to transform simple concepts into artistic ones, treating colours, textures, lightings and shadows in different ways. The watercolour architectural visualisation gives audiences personalisation, emphasising the architecture in the render. The watercolour style is a unique technique, as no other method is able to recreate this type of finish. Most designers are using this style to develop photorealistic renders in both 2D and 3D designs.

The Mad Max

The Mad Max gives buildings in renders a glow which is usually used in cityscape scenes. In these renders, the city appears to be dim, giving the buildings the focus. This provides an audience with the impression of an urban wasteland.

The Theodore

This style is mostly used in interiors and usually uses bright backgrounds. Lighting and angles of the lens are crucial elements in this technique as it enhances the visualisation of the render.

 The Gondry

Also referred to as the collage, this technique uses a combination of photos, sketches and renders to make the visualisation more memorable. If done well this image will resemble-real life images and viewers will find it difficult to detect if any software was used. This style is often recognised as weird or somewhat unique, dubbing it as anachronistic.

The Katherine Heigl

 This style is arguably the most vibrant, as it uses some of the most attractive architectural components. The dream-like elements include forests, parks, sunsets and often carries a magical charm in the render. It evokes a positive, happy atmosphere and aims to give audiences a sense of calm with its lightheartedness.

Semi-realistic style

The semi-realistic style of architectural rendering is similar to the watercolour method, as both methods look to give an audience a dream-like perfection in the render. They are used to convey specific emotions and are often used in dramatic backgrounds and panoramic views. The semi-realistic style is used to evoke emotions and can change the mood of the render if the lightning and contrast of the images are done correctly.

At Vizform, we continue to illuminate the art of architecture through our uncompromising pursuit to shape the future and transform a concept into a tangible vision. We ensure your project incorporates the style best suited for your business, goal and evokes the emotion you desire.