ATELIER 3D (with Google Sketchup 7)

Course Overview:

A new generation of three-dimensional modeling and visualization software makes it possible to approach architectural design as a fun, intuitive and immediate 3D experience, rather than a tedious 2D drafting chore.

This course will guide you step by step through the process of using Sketchup to sculpt form and shape 3D space. You will learn to navigate the 3D modeling environment by mastering the "virtual camera" that permits you to instantly experience your design, as it evolves, through eye-level perspectives, "walk-thrus," "fly-bys" and other techniques.

The theme of the course is Designing your dream house and a walking tour of Frelighsburg village will give students a close up look at several exceptional examples of residential architecture, both modern and historical.

Course Outline

Day One:

Introduction and orientation; A short history of digital 3D, from Tron to Avatar; Navigating virtual modeling environment; Fundamentals of 3D shape generation; Step by step exercises in atelier format; Editing shapes, adding colours and textures;

Day Two:

Town walking tour: architectural jewels; 3D strategies: layers, groups and components; Shadows, lighting, importing models; Saving views, animation sequences; Guided exercises in atelier format; Planning a final project;

Day Three:

Oranizational strategies for larger models; Terrain modeling, vegetation, furniture; Final project development; Architectural and presentation tips; Exporting and printing colour renderings.

Instructors

Eden Greig Muir is a licensed architect who uses 2D and 3D software in his Eastern Townships residential design practice. Muir was the director of the Digital Design Lab at Columbia University's School of Architecture where he taught computer-aided design (CAD). He has published several books on CAD topics including Guide to 3D Modeling with form*Z (Onword Press), and Guide to Creating 3D Worlds (Wiley).

Teaching Assistant Eric Renaud-Houde is a 3D consultant and student at McGill University. He has worked in computer-graphics programming as well as architectural modeling.

Start date:
TO BE ANNOUNCED

Duration:
TO BE ANNOUNCED

Tuition:
TO BE ANNOUNCED

Instructor:
Eden Greig Muir, Architect

Location:
Galerie Design, Frelighsburg

Language:
English & French*

Requirements

1. Your own Mac or PC computer. Check that your laptop meets the minimum system requirements for Sketchup 7 at sketchup.google.com/systemreq.html . You should already be comfortable with the operating system, loading software, finding, opening, saving and backing up files, printing, and so on.

2. Three-button mouse, mouse pad, USB key, power & security cables. Note that hi-speed wireless Internet access will be provided.

3. Highly recommended: Digital camera

4. Hard-cover sketchbook and pencils

Note: This course will use Sketchup, a powerful but easy-to-use software which is available for free from Google at www.sketchup.google.com. If possible, download and test Sketchup before arriving.

* Course lectures & demonstrations in English; individual assistance in workshop sessions in French or English.