Design with me #2 - Furniture design process and 3D model scene building.
Science & Technology
Introduction
Welcome to the second episode of the "Design with Me" series! In this segment, we will explore the intricate world of furniture design and build a 3D scene. Let’s dive in and begin with some initial sketches of an armchair.
Sketching the Armchair
Starting in a studio environment, I set up a square canvas, intending to design an armchair. Utilizing the symmetry tool from the drawing toolbar, I can create a balanced sketch. The symmetry tool allows for both vertical and horizontal symmetries, which can be repositioned and rotated easily.
First, I adjusted the brush opacity and size to create thinner lines since these are interpreted as silhouette lines in visualization communication (viscom). By keeping the opacity low, I can sketch lightly and create a geometric armchair design.
I begin with a basic structure: sketching the outline of the armchair, the cushion part, and the legs. Holding down the shift key permits me to draw straight lines—essential for geometric shapes. After constructing the base structure, I clean up unnecessary lines to avoid confusion in later designs.
Next, I soften the hard edges of the design to create a comfortable appearance and further define the cushion sections. Once the initial sketch is complete, I can use the description feature in viscom for a better interpretation, highlighting it as a modern armchair with a tufted seat and backrest.
Coloring and Refining the Sketch
To enhance the visibility of different surfaces, I create a new layer for color blocking. Setting this layer to 'multiply' allows me to visualize the surfaces without losing the underlying sketch. Sticking with a lighter color for the wooden armrests helps differentiate that section.
Next, I apply a contrasting color for the cushion, highlighting the different materials and enhancing the sketch’s interpretability. I can then add highlights to mimic light reflection, adding realism to the sketch. This process allows viscom to better understand the shapes we want to present.
When generating the final interpretation in viscom, I've noticed that surfaces appear more accurately defined thanks to the colors added. Exploring different layer settings and adjusting rendering influence can lead to variations in the rendered outcomes, enhancing realism.
Creating the 3D Model
Once satisfied with the armchair’s appearance, I can generate and export it as a 3D model. Additionally, I sketch and develop a simple stool design. Utilizing symmetry helps streamline the design process, color blocking the stool for a quick visual reference.
After creating and refining both the armchair and stool models, I can set up a cohesive scene. Uploading existing 3D models and arranging them within a designated space gives depth to the scene’s overall design.
To further enhance the visualization process, I incorporate reference images. These images serve as mood and aesthetic guidelines, allowing viscom to adjust the scene to match. By experimenting with different materials and integrating human figures into the scene, I can communicate intended functionality effectively.
Finally, through iteration and refinement, I develop the final visual scene featuring an individual reading a newspaper in the armchair with matching stools, completing a cozy and cohesive living room setting.
Conclusion
The journey through furniture design and 3D scene building highlights the importance of sketching and utilizing visualization tools effectively. By layering, color blocking, and refining designs, we can create aesthetically pleasing and functional models.
Thank you for joining me on this design adventure! I welcome your feedback on this episode and suggestions for future topics in our design series.
Keywords
- Furniture design
- Armchair
- Stool
- 3D modeling
- Sketching
- Visualization Communication (viscom)
- Color blocking
- Symmetry tool
FAQ
What tools are used for furniture design in this process?
We mainly use a sketching tool with features like the symmetry tool and layers to visualize and refine furniture designs.
How does color blocking aid in visualization?
Color blocking helps differentiate positive and negative surfaces, allowing for clearer interpretations in visualization tools.
What is the significance of using reference images?
Reference images provide a cohesive aesthetic and mood for the scene, aligning the model's materials and colors with the desired vibe.
Can I create 3D models without extensive sketching?
Yes, you can utilize simple color blocks and strong contrasts to communicate design intent, allowing for basic 3D interpretations without detailed sketches.
What is viscom, and how is it relevant?
Viscom, or visualization communication, is a tool that interprets sketches and designs into more refined graphics, making it essential for presenting design ideas effectively.