The greatest thing about finally experiencing an AVL-enhanced space is that it becomes just that…an experience. Atmospheric stage lighting, immersive audio that fills a room, and powerful video can create an experience that has a powerful effect on your guests.
But long before you get to the final product, there’s a moment of doubt for every client when they look at a blueprint and wonder, “what is this really going to look like when it’s done?”
MediaMerge solves this problem with our previsualization process: Envision 3D Workflow.
See it before you build it.
Envision is a full-circle approach to showing potential clients exactly what they will be getting in an AVL setup by building upon the traditional 2D blueprints of a space until a photorealistic, 3D model is produced before the first day of construction is even set on a calendar.
Envision gives MediaMerge clients a multitude of ways to visualize their future products.
It adds power to the creative process for both creators and clients by allowing them to:
- Explore creative possibilities
- Experience your space virtually before it’s built
- Eliminate mistakes from confusion about design intent
- Communicate the vision to your team and get everyone on board
- Bolster fundraising efforts with powerful visuals
- Enjoy better project outcomes
Why use 3D previsualization?
Traditionally, the previsualization process began and ended with 2D schematics and drawings. In some cases, the architect might add 2D perspective views to simulate a bare-bones outline of what the additions would be like once the project was complete. Even so, there was still a LOT left to the imagination.
Even for professionals, blueprints can be difficult to read, and trying to imagine completely new additions to a space by layering on more 2D images is just too much for most people to visualize.
MediaMerge’s Envision 3D Workflow solves this issue by using the latest in Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology to show you what your space will look like after the AVL installation is completed.
Here’s how the Envision process works:
Step 1: Collect
We begin by taking extremely detailed measurements of the existing spaces that are being renovated, combining our own inspection notes of the site with any CAD files provided by your architect. For new construction, we rely heavily on the architect’s drawings. With this basic information about the space, we can begin to “build up” to our 3D model.
Step 2: Model
Here’s where things start to take shape. MediaMerge uses the data collected in Step 1 to begin developing the preliminary model of the space in our 3D modeling software. On new construction, the architect’s drawings provide us with most of what we need to begin 3D modeling, with the exception of AVL elements.
Step 3: Explore
The addition of the digital AVL elements is where the magic happens in the Envision 3D Workflow. We can place digital representations of AVL components and stage lighting equipment (such as loudspeakers, screens, light fixtures, and scenic elements) into our model to make sure that the finished product will sound and look perfect. This step is impossible with traditional 2D drawings and can help us avoid costly redesigns or end-products that fall flat.
Step 4: Refine
This step is when the project starts to become “accessible” to you, and really starts to show what the end-product will be like. In step four, the base model is complete and the digital space is traversable, just like a video game or the online open houses you might have seen. The AVL elements are in place, basic textures are on models, and the general feel of the space is apparent at this stage.
Step 5: Envision
Step 5 is the final coat of paint of the pre-visualization. We improve all of the models and textures on object surfaces to give you the clearest image possible outside of the finished product. Our 3D visualization can then be traversed in webview by clients so that they can understand the full scope of their vision without having to rely on their imagination alone.
Exploring creative possibilities and limitations
The most cost-effective aspect of 3D rendering is that there’s no receipt for all that wasted building material. We can build, demolish, and rebuild the project as many times as we need to in the virtual world–exploring different avenues of creative design and heading off costly mid-project issues–all without having to actually stop the project. This approach saves you the cost of making changes in the real world. Our 3D renders offer you a “do-over” button that can save countless headaches down the line once the project is underway.
This approach also allows us to avoid conflicts between trades. What if your facility’s ductwork, conduits, or water pipes are in the way of speakers or projectors? Well, a 3D model (coupled with our expert on-site inspection) can be remodeled with a few clicks of a mouse, rather than tearing down existing infrastructure or compromising your AVL systems.
Eliminating the client/contractor disconnect
How can you know if lines on paper will lead to the awe-inspiring vision you have in your mind? You can’t. That's why a professionally created 3D model is needed before a project gets underway. It allows you to stay connected to your vision while we handle all of the technical details.
A powerful fundraising tool
The Envision renderings will put everyone's minds at ease. You can use the 3D renderings to show the space off to your team, so their input can be based on a unified vision. You can also use the images in your fundraising efforts. Donors find it easier to back a project that they can clearly understand, and Envision will show them everything they need to see to get them excited about your project. The confidence gained from this understanding will transition everyone involved in the project from nervous uncertainty to eager anticipation.
Make sure you ask to see the 3D rendering
Knowing 3D rendering is available, it’s hard to believe that so few organizations insist on seeing one before a project commences. Considering the size of your investment, you should see exactly what you are buying before any work begins. Make sure the AVL company you are working with can provide you with a 3D rendering.