Building Facade Visualization

Visualization of Ventilated Facade Systems: From Concept to Implementation

The task of visualizing a Ventilated Facade System (VFS) arises whenever a client faces a choice: which type of facade is best, how it will look in real-world conditions, what primary colors to choose for the cladding elements, and how much it will cost.

Choosing from two or three design mockups helps to accurately meet corporate style requirements or specific client preferences. By investing significant funds in a ventilated facade, the investor wants to see in detail what they are investing in, as well as ensure the level of professionalism of the company’s specialists. Modern 3DCAD design technologies and 3D visualization software used in architecture and construction allow for the creation of an exact digital twin of the future object.

Advantages of using visualization in VFS projects:

1. Precision of choice: The ability to see combinations of colors and textures before ordering materials.
2. Time efficiency: Rapid coordination of the exterior look with all stakeholders (investors, architects, city authorities).
3. Landscape assessment: Understanding how the building will fit into the surrounding environment and existing urban fabric.
4. Professional calculation: Visualization often serves as the basis for further calculating the required number of cassettes, Rack facades, or Blinds panels.

Simple Facade Visualization

Simple visualization of an object refers to an image of the building facade with one or several design options using cassettes, Rack systems, Blinds panels, or their combined use. This is the optimal solution for a quick aesthetic assessment without diving into complex 3D modeling.

The image includes a frontal view of the building or a corner perspective, depending on the data provided by the client. The work is performed in design software such as Photoshop, CorelDraw, CorelPhotoPaint, etc. The goal of such visualization is to present the design mockup and coordinate it with the client.

Features of simple visualization:

1. Created based on high-quality photographs of the existing object.
2. Allows for rapid changes to the color scheme (RAL).
3. Provides the opportunity to compare different types of profiles (e.g., Cubic shaped rack vs. cassette facade).

The client receives a single image—a processed photograph or a sketch with the layout of elements on the facade. Client requirements for presenting multiple angles or several versions of the facade mockup are charged additionally.

Example of facade cladding visualization for a Service Center based on a photograph.

Example of Rack facade design visualization based on a photograph and a provided sketch of the dimensions for the building’s main entrance.

Comparison of Visualization Levels

3D Facade Visualization

3D visualization refers to the representation of the building facade from one or several perspectives in a three-dimensional space. This allows for an evaluation of the building’s volume, the play of light and shadow on metal surfaces, and the interaction of various architectural forms. The image is created after the design mockup has been coordinated.

The work is performed in 3D CAD design or modeling software: ArchiCAD, Solidworks, 3Dmax, 3Dstudio, etc.

What 3D modeling provides the client:

1. Realism: Accurate depiction of reflections on the metal and the depth of facade seams.
2. Flexibility: The ability to view the object from any point, including a bird’s-eye view.
3. Scalability: Creation of a precise geometric model that can be used for architectural calculations.

The goal of such visualization is a more comprehensive presentation of the facade design and coordination of the building’s facade details with the client before production processes begin.

Example of Rack facade design visualization based on a photograph and provided dimensions of the main entrance in 3D.

Facade Design Project

This is a comprehensive solution that includes 3D facade visualization after the final coordination of the mockup with the client, with detailed development of all structural elements. It is not just a picture, but a visual guide for the project’s implementation.

The presentation package includes:

1. Main facade cladding elements.
2. Architectural details and decorative inserts.
3. Junction nodes for windows, doors, and entrance groups.
4. Detailed planning of canopies, columns, parapets, and the building’s plinth.

Presenting several views of the building from different angles and against the surrounding landscape helps to fully resolve all questions regarding the future look of the object. The output is provided on paper in A3-A0 format (convenient for use directly on the construction site) and in electronic format (PDF) for easy sharing and storage.