SketchUp Model and Render programs

Hey

After Easter I am going to need to start really getting to grips with some modelling and rendering software for my Architecture portfolio.

Currently I can use Vectorworks which is an abysmal program so I am looking for something that can translate to 2D plans and sections but is able to 3d model.

I also need a good rendering program to start learning with that isn't KT

Thank you

 

For rendering, I use VRay. it is very expensive, but you might find a solution for that

It isn't hard to master, and is very powerful.

 

Most of the people here use either sketchup or solidworks for the actual designs.

 

if i were you i'd go with 3ds max and Vray. although that's a bit expensive.

 

I've used about 5/6 different cad packages over the years, and Vectorworks is very, very far from rubbish, haven't got around to sampling AC2K10 yet as I understand it's pretty good, but compared to all of the previous auto cad iterations Vectorworks is like a blessed... thing.... If you're going to be doing very complex nurbs curves then I'd seriously recommend rhino, beyond that, see above.

 

My issue with vectorworks is its poor ability in anything that is inclined in more than one axis otherwise its alright.

Dark silly question maybe but can you take sections and plans from 3ds max I can't seem to find out?

Thanks guys

 

throw some time into blender, its very capable but tricky to learn.

Other option is the expensive route of 3DS max, combine with autocad for your 2D work

 

I would recommend solidworks or Pro Engineer. They do everything in one package.

 

Solidworks and Pro:E are CAD programs for mainly mechanical design. They are not really suited for product design or architectural design.

 

if you mean importing/exporting to dwg, then yes.

Also,I agree with Javerh, such programs aren't made for architecture.

 

Right 3ds max it is as a rough estimate how long would you say it takes to learn to achive some good quality models and render them in vray.

Thanks

Mark

 

I would say they are specifically suited for product design because that is what I spend all day at work using them for, but you are correct they are not well suited for architectural design.

 

That depends. I use them for mechanical design where I design bearings, axles and such. They have been updated to incorporate moulded part and sheet metal design but they aren't really top notch for that. I consider product design more as industrial design where you try to make ergonomic hammer grips, curved panels for car doors and so on. You can do those on normal CAD programs but it is like pulling barbed wire through your nose. There are better programs for those purposes. (BarbedWire 2 Pro)

 

It took me a good year to get a decent understanding of 3ds. I didn't work with it every day though and I still have alot to learn.

 

I can see what you are saying man. I don't do a lot of curved surfaces for the stuff I work on...electronics packaging/chassis design.

 

That's funny, it's the basis for Artioscad, which is used by many many companies for designing their product packaging and container.

 

^^ Which is why most companies use simple boxes with or without cutouts.

 

+1 for 3ds...

 

I use Solidworks. Ive tried sketchup before and gave up after about an hour of not "getting it"

 

-1 for max, i really dont like it, it feels just like a bunch of plugins thrown together, give rhino a try, much easier to learn.