The Advantages of Technology in Design

It seems as if technology has helped further almost every industry imaginable, with time scales reduced and calculations more accurate. For some industries – such as design – the difference in the end product is major.

Before computer aided design programmes were available constructors, architects and building funders could easily have different idea of what a property would look like based on the plans drawn up. A blueprint on paper – even accompanied by a small model – is often open to many different interpretations.

Now, however, all interested parties can view a 3D visualisation of a development. This will show off the property from all conceivable angles and give everyone a clearer goal to work towards. The realistic view can help not only to preview the new development as a singular item, but it can also be used to show how it will fit in with the surrounding area.

This latter use has become increasingly popular in today's press with newspapers and magazines able to show readers what a major development such as a stadium or shopping centre will look like upon its proposed completion.

One of the most useful functions for a designer to show a client is a walk through of the building. Here everything from the height of the ceiling to the taps on the kitchen sink can be shown in detail, meaning if there is anything that they want changed it can be done before building work is started, saving a large amount of recovery work. Even smaller tasks – such as picking the colour of the bathroom tiles or the rug in the hallway – can be helped with a realistic computer model. The artists have the ability to show the rooms at different times of the day – to replicate different angles of sunlight – as well as with artificial light to ensure that there are no nasty surprises when the pale coral walls turn a vibrant pink at night.

As well as the client, this sort of tool can be very useful for builders as they can spot potential problems in the design stage rather than when they come across them during construction. This can save both time and money for all parties.

3D visualisation UK/3D visualization (USA) is one of the most important advances in architecture in recent times and one that has proved time and time again to have huge benefits for everyone involved in a building project.