Developed for the conceptual stages of design, SketchUp is a powerful, yet easy-to-learn 3D program. Using a few simple tools, we will create 3D models for quick massing studies, exploring and comparing design options, set up perspectives from hand drawings, and explore ways to use SketchUp for presentations. The first day will be spent mastering the basic tools needed to create massing models. On day two, we’ll explore more advanced concepts, including texturing and adding shadows. Students are encouraged to bring a floor plan and/or elevation that can be scanned to be used as a drawing base for the final project.

Note: Students must bring a laptop computer with a free SkechUp download.

Course start time: Saturday, 9am
Course end time: Sunday, 5pm

 

  • Competency Level: Beginner
  • AIA credits: 14

Course Objective

  • To become familiar with the concepts and tools necessary to quickly create 3D models and manipulate them in 3D space.

Suggested Readings

Sketchup is available for free through http://sketchup.google.com. We suggest you download a copy and familiarize yourself with Sketchup before taking the course, but it is not required.

Materials to Bring

  • Laptop computer - check to make sure your computer meets the minimum system requirements listed for Google Sketchup 7 at http://sketchup.google.com/systemreq.html. If you can bring a 3-button mouse, it will make your life easier.
  • Bring a sketch of a project you would like to study in 3D, preferably scanned and saved as a jpeg.

Course schedule

  • On Day One, students will learn all the drawing and modification tools by recreating a sample project provided by the instructors. Once students have mastered the basics, we'll play with adding textures and shadows.
  • On Day Two, students will have the day to create their own 3D designs. We'll also talk about ways to present your models and show examples of how we use Sketchup in our office.
Start Date: April 13, 2013
Closed