The Process

1. How long does it take Atomworks to complete an architectural visualization project?

It really depends on several factors, depth of the project, square footage of the structure, required details etc. A general rule of thumb, however, is two weeks.

2. What do you need to begin work on the project?

With new clients, we ask for a deposit of 25-50% of the total project worth. The percentage required depends on the project size.

3. We have our own 3D models, can you use those in your renders?

Absolutely. Often times the models will have to be modified to work with a custom texture process, but using pre-existing models can lower overall project costs.

4. How do you handle plan or blueprint errors?

It depends. If the errors are small, then there is no extra charge. If an error results in work having to be redone or rooflines being changes then the quote will be adjusted to reflect that. Please note that we will make you aware of this should it occur.

Pricing

1. Do you require a deposit?

New clients pay a deposit of 25-50% of the total project worth. The percentage required depends on the project size.

2. How much do you charge for a 3D render and/or animation?

The Project costs depend on the following factors:

• the physical size (sq. footage) of the structure
• the style of the structure(s) being created
  the amount of detail required
  the materials used

3. Will my quoted price for my project ever increase?

Project pricing increases only under the following situations:

• Plan errors. This is the most common cause of budget overages.
  Scope changes - if the project scope changes after the project has started, this can cause overages
• We always let the customer know before a budget overage occurs and the decision will be up to them to decide how to proceed. The customer will always know what their final bill is.

4. How much do you charge for rush jobs?

Rush work is done at a rate of 1.5 of our normal rate.

3D Rendering

1. Why would I want traditional architectural illustration and 3D computer rendered illustrations?

3D computer generated projects have so many more advantages over traditional architectural illustrations. Some of these advantages include:

• multiple stills from various angles can be generated from the original work at a lower cost
• the project can be animated if needed
• the models and images can be used to identify problems early in the design process to help minimize costly design errors mistakes in the future
• 3D computer rendering can be more accurate
• one of the great advantages of 3D visualization is that it can greatly aid in the design process and help to avoid any confusion amongst the project stakeholders.

2. Are the final images high enough resolution for print?

Absolutely. Final images are generated at print resolution and can be custom rendered to any size necessary.

Files & Architectural Assets

1. What are your minimum requirements for creating a architectural visualization?

We require the following:
a set of accurate plans
a list of materials and colors used in construction

2. What kind of files do you accept?

We accept PDF, DWG, and DXF digital files.

3. I only have the printed plans. Can you create a pre-visualization from those?

Absolutely.

3D Visualization vs. Traditional Animation

3D Visualization has many advantages over traditional illustration. They include:

• leveraging the work that was done in the first image to any subsequent images
• 3D visualization projects can be animated
• colors can be easily changed
• lighting can be accurately simulated for time of day, month or year