Changing times call for an upgrade in how we imagine, see and perceive architectural designs. Immersive storytelling through interactive video walkthroughs is leading the way in designing content in the architectural and urban planning sectors. 3D video walkthroughs are revolutionizing how holistic architectural plans are delivered to potential buyers, discussed amongst stakeholders, or planned for future projects. With creativity, realistic imagery, and real-time experiences, 3D video walkthroughs are transforming the future of design, architecture, and real estate. Let’s unpack everything you need to know about 3D architectural walkthroughs.
What is a 3D architectural walkthrough?
3D architectural walkthroughs are described as 3D animations used to showcase or display property using complete computer-generated imagery (CGI). These animations show a property or future assets in the initial design or conceptual stage. They are produced using digitally made 3D designs, first conceptualized as concepts and then converted into photo-realistic walkthroughs.
With 3D architectural walkthroughs, you can utilize the CGI assets to represent internal and external angles of a property, add minute details such as glass or metalwork, or provide the viewer with an opportunity to explore the property like they would in real life. Using animated electronic cameras in the design scene, the 3D elements are rendered and modified to produce a complete walkthrough video.
Essentially, there are two types of 3D video walkthroughs — one consists of a single, continuous electronic camera motion around or through the property’s structure. The other video is a multi-functional 3D video walkthrough that integrates animated electronic angles and informational content.
Elements of a 3D architectural video walkthrough
- 3D modeling — Modern architectural projects are based on various components. 3D modeling refers to creating designs in multiple dimensions that represent a residential or commercial property. These 3D models are mathematically and visually coordinated to represent each part of the property in minute detail — including walls, flooring, lighting fixtures, furniture, gardens, and more.
- Visualization — This refers to bringing the 3D models together to create a cohesive and realistic storyline for the 3D video walkthroughs. Visualization is mainly a technique to create a comprehensive storyline for the 3D video walkthrough in which all elements interact with one another. This includes giving each element a realistic texture such as wood or marble, adding material-based features such as reflection and transparency in glass elements, and composing subtle additions like music and additional text.
10 Benefits of adapting professional 3D architectural walkthrough services
As one of the most contemporary and sought after services in the architectural industry, 3D video walkthroughs are rapidly rising in popularity. The increasing demand and shift towards this experiential and creative real estate representation are due to its numerous benefits. These include:
- Detailed presentation — 3D video walkthroughs are highly presentable content sources for property and estate developers. They showcase the full architectural plan and capture every detail, including fixtures, furniture, and materials. This makes these detailed videos extremely engaging and accurate points of reference for potential investors and other stakeholders.
- Holistic interior and exterior views — Unlike 2D imagery and concept sketches, 3D video walkthroughs give a broader perspective to the viewer. With these videos, you can display a better and more complete picture of your property — including interior details of rooms and other spaces, outdoor areas, exterior walls and features, and electronically processed drone views of the entire property.
- Accessibility — Potential buyers and investors can make a purchase or investment decision by viewing 3D video walkthroughs. Planned and created to imitate the real property and its complete features, these architectural videos help gain full access and understanding of the property even during the early concept or development stages.
- Cost-efficient — Compared to other marketing collateral and property-based content, 3D video walkthroughs generate a greater return on investment. By providing realistic and complete building views, these animated architectural renderings minimize the requirement of multiple changes and revision costs. Any design changes or corrections can be dealt with before any major construction occurs — saving both time and money.
- High interactivity — With a strong focus on premium renderings and animations, 3D video walkthroughs are one of the most interactive and engaging property or real estate content pieces. Based on the video style, each walkthrough can be designed to either give the viewer a video similar to a complete in-person property tour or an informational video that pairs animations with written text. Walkthroughs can also allow viewers to toggle between camera or filter views such as rooms, interior and exterior features, or spaces with or without stylistic additions or interior fit-outs.
- Demonstration of scope — 3D video walkthroughs give a holistic view of a property with mathematical proportions in scale with the scope of the real dimensions of the development project. It displays the real-time relationship between proportions such as height, width, surface areas and neighboring elements.
- Competitive edge — No matter the type of business profile, a unique 3D video walkthrough will give you a competitive edge over other players in your landscape. A high-quality walkthrough displays your professionalism and dedication to giving your clients an immersive experience, compared to image galleries and simple floor plan sketches.
- Increased conversions — Real estate companies and property agents run many marketing campaigns to charm potential clients with their latest projects and properties. Based on a recent study by Biteable, 74% of marketers have found video content to have a higher organic search and landing page conversion rate. This makes 3D video walkthroughs more beneficial content investments over static images and floorplans.
- Emotional connectivity — Professionally composed 3D video walkthroughs have a unique sense of embedded storytelling. Photorealistic visuals and superior animation create an instant emotional connection with the viewer. With different themes, styles, and music, each architectural walkthrough has the capacity to become a high-value content source while forming an aspirational bond between the viewer and the property.
- User-friendly — One of the key benefits of implementing professional 3D architectural walkthrough services in your business is its user-friendliness. Whether you’re a property developer or an interior designer, video walkthroughs are easy to use and understand. This includes easy online sharing with stakeholders, corporate investors, potential homeowners, and development partners you might collaborate with when finalising the project.
Discover the power of 3D architectural walkthroughs with Arktek3D
If you’re looking to elevate your customer’s experience with expert-made, experiential 3D architectural walkthrough services, Arktek3D is the place for you. As a one-stop 3D architectural walkthrough company, we are dedicated to providing superior quality, interactive floor plans, architectural modelling, rendering, and 3D walkthrough services using industry-specific software tools and techniques.
Based in Houston, US, we have worked with a range of clients across the globe. During the process, we have gained the knowledge and experience to deliver an expansive range of customised modelling and walkthrough solutions based on your unique business needs and clientele.
Ready to take the next step into the ultimate architectural experience? Get a quote from our visualisation and walkthrough experts today. If you have any questions about our 3D walkthrough services, get in touch with our studio team and they will be happy to help.