Shadow study / 3D model

Using the 3D modelling software I extruded buildings from a base plan used as a layer which i traced through to get the boundaries. The building heights were calculated based on the amount of floors.

Then a series of graphics were exported to show the shadows cast by the Sun, with the comparison between winter and summer showing morning, midday and evening shadows.

This has proved very useful in identifying microclimates and potential problems with wind while also giving a real sense of scale. I was sup prised that the terrace area of my design, by the Thame side, is not as shaded as i thought it would be and even though I was well aware of the tall building which surround the site, it is difficult to imagine the scale until creating a model. 

Master planning to Detail stage

An area was chosen to be refined at 1:200 scale. This reveals a lot more detail than can be shown at 1:500, some areas now look very large and empty. Not always a bad thing if the design requires a large open space but for the most part this can be improved through refinement.

 A trace overlay was made, one to examine the planting, one for the structures and another to identify any elements which either need work or need to go!

Using my sketch up model of the design in context, I produced an eye level image within this part of the park.

I like using this method instead of just freehand drawing as it gives a realistic and accurate placing of all the elements which make up my design.

I then added some people for scale then the image was ready to be printed so I could use it as a base drawing.

 

Once I had traced through the structures in the image I added the planting layers while trying to create it as a picture, adding to the foreground, middle and background.

Next part of this process is to add colour. I have been using my watercolour scans for a while now so have begun to incorporate a little photographic textures in with this. Hopefully I can find a good balance between the two but first I need to get some shadows sorted out.