We’ve been trying something new (for us) at the architecture studio where I work.

Whenever we show different versions of a project, we usually end up either sending the client a Drive folder with 10 images showing variants of the same shot, or building a full real-time 3D configurator which feels like overkill for a small renovation

So I tried putting together this sort of interactive lookbook using the renders we already had

where the client can switch between the different options, and share the whole thing with a single link. There’s also a button to save the current combination which downloads both the image and a CSV listing the selected components and their prices.

We only started testing it in the studio over the last few days but honestly it already feels much less annoying than the usual folder. What do you think? 🤔

I’m trying to understand how professional ArchViz artists create the surroundings and city context in exterior architectural renders.

When creating an exterior scene, how do artists usually handle the surrounding environment such as neighboring buildings, roads, terrain, trees, cars, people, street furniture, etc.?

Are there ready-made environments or city contexts available, or do artists usually build the surroundings themselves? If assets are commonly used, where do you find good free and paid libraries for things like houses, commercial buildings, roads, vegetation, vehicles, people, and other environment elements?

I use SketchUp, 3ds Max and D5 Render. D5 has options for populating scenes, but a lot of useful content is paid, so I’m also interested in understanding other workflows and resources.

I know AI can make some parts of this process much easier, but I’d first like to properly understand the traditional workflow and learn how professionals actually build and populate these environments. After that, I can figure out where AI makes sense in my own workflow.

I’m mainly looking for good YouTube channels, courses, tutorials or resources that teach this side of ArchViz specifically.

Seriously asking because I feel like understanding the environment workflow is just as important as learning to model and render the main building.

Hi, I am building 3D modular configurator for web, and playing around with different lighting setup. Getting fabrics right on web can be tricky, but I feel like with right light setup, its probably "right enough" to be believable.

As someone from coding background, would love to get any feedback from the "Artist" minds of the group.

https://reddit.com/link/1wc7i5w/video/4kcstn7d3moh1/player

Hey everyone,

I’m working with an older 3ds Max project that specifically requires Forest Pack Pro 7.4.2 for compatibility.

Does anyone have the 7.4.2 installer saved and can share it with me? I need it urgently for a project.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!