Tuesday, March 18, 2008

SketchUp - First go

This is my first time using sketchup.. I enjoy the program, however, I find it very time consuming to do exactly what I want, particularly with organic shapes like those in the cross section I chose. I managed to create this, although it needs much development to make it more simple for me to work with. I am struggling with the interior of the building, slowly learning the tools to hide layers and such.. Some tutorials on the net are helpful others, not so. 

Being my first design, I was just really playing around with textures, trying to choose lighter more transparent textures which to me, relate to the word 'intricate' and materials such as glass have an ability to catch and refract light unlike other substances. Such effects are 'fascinating', again relating to my words of description. I have the idea to use some sort of stone, as I feel that certain cuts and carvings of stone can be beautiful and intricate in its design.  These materials are in preference to heavier, bulkier materials such as concrete and thick stone. 

I was unable to create the underground level, fiddling for hours and continually being unsuccessful in my design.. So, for the moment, there is no underground level but it is on its way!

Sketch chosen for Google SketchUp

Level above ground: 'intricate'
   below ground: 'fascination'

My abstract cross-sections...