With the ever increasing use of technology in just about all areas of construction, it makes sense to use CAD and CGI design to create 3 dimensional (or 3D) modeling in architectural design.

3D visualization is not a new technique in the building industry: it has been utilized since the earliest construction of permanent dwellings and buildings to enable the client to have a vivid picture of the finished product on a smaller scale. Traditionally, 3D modeling involved scaled models which were painstakingly made from materials including plaster or wood, or even heavy card. In the current era, CAD or Computer Assisted Design and CGI or Computer Generated Images, take the hard work out of this remarkably useful promotional tool, completing in hours what previously used to take many months with a high level of accuracy.

Computer generated 3D modeling transforms flat, unimaginative images into realistic designs and as such it is much easier for the client to visualize the finished product in a virtual reality. This is especially useful in the field of architecture 3D. No longer are clients limited to technical drawings or elevation plans which only the trained eye can interpret: with cutting edge technology, any architectural design can be moved in such a way that the viewer is able to "walk" around and through the design, getting a feel for the building's advantages whilst at the same time minimizing or indeed eliminating any potential concerns which would otherwise be very difficult to predict and expensive to rectify.

When compared to the traditional skills of technical and architectural drawing, most CAD 3D modeling programs are relatively easy to use. The computer programming features automatic scaling which results in greater accuracy and flexibility in conjunction with a faster production of the finished product. Consequently, 3D modeling is a perfect tool for use by civil engineers, interior designers, landscape designers, architects, real estate developers and other professionals who require a strong visual presentation of concepts to offer to their clients.

Quite a number of professionals involved in the building and construction industry employ 3D modeling services to create plans and concept drawings and consequently 3D visualization of these concepts, derived from the ideas and dreams of clients and from their own ideas.

Architectural 3D modeling services are employed in two different areas: 3D exterior modeling and 3D interior modeling.

3D exterior modeling is especially useful when designing residential, commercial and health care structures together with those buildings designed for the leisure industry, hospitality, community and institutional purposes. Details such as the facade of a building and the application of outdoor areas including courtyards, car parking and landscaping are realized, providing for the client an image of the finished product. The use of color and texture on exterior walls and exterior lighting can be experimented with to obtain the best possible results.

3D interior modeling is primarily concerned with the final details to the inside of a building. 3D models are therefore created to allow a client to view the finished interior from many different angles, using light and shade, color and form. This modeling is ideal for showcasing inviting and attractive interiors, especially kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, living areas, work spaces and conference spaces, including the positioning of furniture.

No matter what is the size or design of your dream building, 3D modeling is quite obviously an invaluable tool in the construction industry.