With the help of rendering software, architectural and design sketches on a napkin can become captivating images and animations. Utilizing 3D renderings allow designers to express their design ideas, creating concepts that are easily understood by their clients. Even though choosing a rendering software can be a daunting task, we've narrowed down a list of our top picks out there right now.
Vray is arguably one of the best rendering engines out there. It easily collaborates with common 3D modeling software such as SketchUp and Revit and is easily a fan favorite. Vray is known for its large variety of materials and convenient asset editor to adjust color, reflections, refractions, and more. Overall, the program is easy to use with versions for students and professionals alike. For higher quality or photo-realistic renderings, additional training may be needed depending on an individual’s skill level.
Enscape is another powerful rendering software that’s a favorite amongst architects and designers. It seamlessly integrates with your 3D modeling software to produce real-time visuals. One of its most powerful tools is its ability to connect with Virtual Reality with the ability to walk through the space while it’s still being designed. Like Vray, Enscape is also known for its vast asset library full of vegetation, transportation, interior décor, & miscellaneous exterior elements for added detail. The program itself is very easy to use without the need for additional training to produce high-quality images.
Often overlooked are the tools we already possess. Sketchup and Revit are typically programs most designers and architects already use and have very powerful tools to produce 3D visualizations. Sketchup is a popular 3D modeling and design tool that is easy to use and shares a collection of downloadable models through its 3D warehouse. Revit is a Building Information Modeling (BIM) software that professionals use to create higher-quality buildings through collaboration between architects and engineers. Both programs can be used as an effective tool to express rendered design concepts to their teams and clients.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a rendering software is like choosing a sketching pen, what works for some people may not work for everyone. When weighing your options look for learning curves, cost, and the overall impact the program may have on your work. Thankfully, there isn’t a wrong answer, and the answer you're looking for may be the program(s) you are already using!