FAQ
Architectural Visualisation FAQs
Architectural visualisation FAQs cover cost, turnaround, revisions and the files the studio needs to begin.
What is architectural visualisation?
Architectural visualisation is the production of photoreal images, films and interactive scenes that show an unbuilt building before construction.
How much does architectural visualisation cost in the UK?
The cost depends on the model, site context, image count and delivery specification. Request a project-specific quote; the displayed figures are illustrative, not confirmed studio rates.
How long does a CGI take?
The programme depends on model readiness, scene complexity and review stages. The written quote establishes first-draft and final-delivery dates.
What files do you need?
Revit, SketchUp, AutoCAD, ArchiCAD, IFC or PDF drawings, plus a materials schedule and site location.
How many revisions are included?
The written quote establishes revision rounds, approval stages and the scope of changes. Confirm these terms before commissioning.
Do you work outside London?
Yes. The studio works across the UK, including Manchester, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Cardiff and Belfast.
Project guidance
How do you choose between still images, animation and a tour?
A still image explains one controlled viewpoint. Animation connects spaces through a planned camera route. A panoramic tour lets the viewer look around linked positions, while a real-time environment renders a model during navigation. The choice follows the audience and the spatial relationships the presentation needs to communicate.
Agree the final viewing channel before production. Film duration, panorama resolution, browser support and interactive hardware affect scope. These outputs share design information but require different preparation and validation.
Project guidance
Does realistic CGI count as verified planning evidence?
Realistic CGI is not automatically verified planning evidence. A verified representation uses documented photography, survey references, model sources and camera matching. The assessment brief identifies the viewpoints, method and presentation requirements for the scheme.
AVR Levels 0–3 describe London representation levels. Landscape Institute Visualisation Types 1–4 use a separate classification. Record the requested method explicitly rather than treating these labels as equivalent.
Project guidance
What happens when the design changes during production?
Design changes require a review of the affected geometry, materials and outputs. A revised building envelope changes every dependent exterior view. A new finish package affects interiors and related campaign versions. Distinguish corrections to the agreed brief from later design instructions.
The written quotation establishes revision allowances and the treatment of additional work. Numbered mark-ups, coordinated drawing revisions and recorded approvals keep review decisions clear. Final publication should use images representing the accepted design issue.
Project guidance
Do renderings establish dimensions or building performance?
Renderings communicate design appearance and spatial relationships. Dimensioned drawings establish measurements, while specialist assessments establish daylight, accessibility, clinical suitability or other performance claims. Furniture scale and camera selection still require careful review so the presentation does not misrepresent usable space.
Use a 3D floor plan to explain room relationships, not as a replacement for a measured plan. Label indicative features and retain the original design sources alongside the final image approvals.
Further reading
Which guides explain these decisions?
- What Is Architectural Visualisation? →
Architectural visualisation is the production of photoreal images, films and interactive scenes that show a building before it is built.
- How Much Does Architectural Visualisation Cost in the UK? →
Architectural visualisation cost depends on modelling, context, output format, image count and review scope. A written project quote establishes the actual price.
- What Are Verified Views? AVR Levels 0–3 Explained →
A verified view is a photomontage that places an accurate 3D model of a proposed development into a surveyed photograph, so planners can judge its visual impact.