How much art and how much technology in an architectural rendering is a question that no doubt has many answers. Choosing between art-based techniques and the possibilities technology offers will depend on who the client is, whether there is a deadline, architectural goals, aesthetic aims, and other factors.

Architects use various media to present their ideas. Regardless of whether turning to traditional tools, like watercolor, pen and ink, or doing an outline sketch; the goal is to present a facsimile of a proposed space in two-dimensions. Computer graphics and design are a recent addition to the architectural toolbox and many questions remain about whether it is an addition to the older tools or should replace them.

Drawing and design are integrally related in architectural design, which also includes an engineering component. Since digital tools are more like an engineer’s instruments than an artists some see them as more scientific than intuitive in the creative space. Others suggest it is how the user handles the tool that determines the final aesthetic quality.

Aesthetics in architecture is generally seen to live on the artistic side of an approach. When working primarily with hand based tools (pencils, paints, etc.), the results show more of the architect’s personality.

Work done within a digital framework has less room for a personal touch. Many architects supplement these tools with hand sketches, claiming that architectural visualization has more creative space in a pencil-driven environment.

The question of balance also has historical roots. When Brunelleschi presented his design for the dome on the Cathedral of Florence (1419-1436), his background in engineering was a helpful as his work as an artist. While the dome gave additional stature to architect’s, many associate Brunelleschi more with his paintings that display linear perspective.

All in all, how much art and how much technology is an architectural rending is more of an open-ended question than something we can firmly decide. Perhaps one of the joys of working in the field is coming to terms with the problems that include both aesthetics and practical applications.

Find more information and details about how 3D architectural rendering can bring your idea to life! When you have an architectural rendering of a building, you can easily see the benefits and advantages of each placement before you commit.