Learning LComputer e a r nGraphics ing S k e t cPortfolio hUp H E I D I G A E D D E R T
C C S F A R C H 2 0 : C O M P U T E R G R A P H I C S
WEEK ONE
G E T T I N G S TA R T E D : B U I L D I N G A D O G H O U S E
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
Learning Objectives
Explore and use SketchUp tools to create a simple structure doghouse Duplicate doghouse to make several structures Import 2-D model of a dog to demonstrate scale of project Add shadows and create scenes Export scenes as 2D graphics in the form of JPEG files
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Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
D e s i g n S u m m a r y : To o l s & A p p r o a c h e s
After getting acquainted with the axis and setting up the toolbox window, I drew a rectangle starting at the point of origin. Using the push/pull tool I gave the rectangle volume, creating a basic cube. I selected the cube and copy/moved it to create two duplicates. I then created roofs for the doghouses using different approaches, using an assortment of tools such as line tool, scale tool, copying and pasting, and the move tool‌after all, there’s almost always more than one way to achieve design goals in SketchUp! I gave the volumes doors using guidelines and the line tool, and then used either the eraser tool or push/pull tool to create the opening. Afterwards I used the materials window to add color and texture, and imported a dog into the model from the 3-D Warehouse for scale. The final touch was adding shadows.
WEEK ONE
G E T T I N G S TA R T E D : B U I L D I N G A D O G H O U S E
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
Reflections
As with learning anything for the first time, it can be a little slow in the beginning. I am so accustomed to drawing by hand that it was difficult for me to switch gears. But after learning how the basic tools work my mind began to operate in a different way, and began to visualize the steps I need to take in order to create different shapes and volumes. Time can slip away so fast working on the computer! The most helpful tools are the ones that save time. The only way to learn this is to practice doing the same thing in different ways, so that once I start working on more complex models I will know which option will be the best time-investment. Â
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Once I had the hang of some of the basics, I wanted to experiment with making some dog houses that were a little more complex. In the scene above this canine couple each have their own house, under the shelter of a nice tree.
WEEK ONE
LEARNING MORE OF THE BASICS
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
Learning Objectives
Practice using groups and components Create a larger-scale and more complex structure Create domes using the follow-me tool D e s i g n S u m m a r y : To o l s & A p p r o a c h e s I began assembling this structure by creating a 4’ cube building block. I gave it some some detail to suggest fenestration using my line and push/pull tools. I selected the form and made it into a component. Creating groups and components can be very useful and essentials tools when using SketchUp. Creating a group combines several lines and faces to keep them separate from other design elements. A component does the same, but goes one step further; any changes that are made to one
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Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio component are made to all the components. After turning my building block into a component I duplicated, rotated and stacked them into a square unit and duplicated it several times to create a large-scale building. Using the follow-me tool, I created domes on the vertical faces to add variety and interest. The structure began to look like a hotel or large residential building of some sort, so I added a translucent element to suggest a point of entry. Finally, I imported a few trees for scale.
WEEK ONE
LEARNING MORE OF THE BASICS
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio Reflections The most important lesson I pulled from this exercise is the benefit of using groups and components. They keep certain design elements separate from others and makes editing several elements quick and easy. One challenge I faced was fighting the desire to make it “accurate,� as opposed to using the tools to create a conceptual form. I am realizing that SketchUp is a great tool for developing an idea, just like sketching with a pencil and paper, and that it does not always have to reflect all the details of a final design. Once I had gotten to point where I felt finished I observed what I had created. I wanted to import some trees for scale, and for some reason it looked like a building that would exist by the beach or somewhere warm, so I planted some palm trees outside.
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Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
WEEK TWO
B U I L D I N G A C I R C U L A R S TA I R C A S E
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
Learning Objectives
Create a circular staircase by building one tread and duplicating and rotating it about a center point Create a handrail with vertical stanchions Place the staircase into a multi-level environment.
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D e s i g n S u m m a r y : To o l s & A p p r o a c h e s Using the circle tool, I drew three concentric circles. The first two circles at 5.75” and 6” radiuses to create the inner collar, and the third at a 6’ radius to create the shape for the tread. When a circle is drawn in SketchUp it is actually a polygon with several line segments. I used the default setting of 24 segments, and then used my pencil tool to draw lines to connect the collar to the endpoints of one of the outer-circle’s line segments. This left me with the shape of one stair tread. Using my push/pull tool I gave the tread volume. I turned the tread into a component and then created an array of 24 stairs, raising them up one by one. To create the stanchions and handrails, I used my line tool to create vertical and angularly projected lines, and then used the follow-me tool to drag a circular shape along the path to give it volume. Because the tread was already turned into a component, stanchions and rails were simultaneously created for all the treads, leaving me with a staircase that could now group together and duplicate.
WEEK TWO
B U I L D I N G A C I R C U L A R S TA I R C A S E
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
My next step was to create a series of floor plates with openings to allow the staircases to extrude through from level to level. I also built a semi-circular handrail around the opening for safety. After duplicating the floor plates to array and stack them into a multi-level building, I added thick columns to express stability. I also added glazing to some of the facades for protection against the outdoor elements.
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Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
I added a roof with two translucent domes, and a plaza with stairs wrapping around. Importing trees and people from the 3-D Warehouse were the final touches to give this building a sense of scale and space.
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WEEK TWO
B U I L D I N G A C I R C U L A R S TA I R C A S E
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
Reflections
The most important part of this exercise was executing groups and components. I like to use groups when I’m designing an independent element that I don’t want to be altered by other adjacent elements. I like to use components when there is a repeated design element; that way if they need to be edited for some unforeseen reason, they can all be edited at once instead of individually, and it saves a lot of time. When I was building my semi-circular handrail, I originally started building it directly on the floor plate. However, in trying to build the volume of the rail, the follow-me tool would not follow my command. So I learned that I needed to build the handrail independently, and then move it into place as a group. This project was so much fun! I liked building a structure with several elements, getting to know the materials a little bit with the glazing, and adding entourage to make it a more believable environment.
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Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
SHORTCUTS
Learning the Keyboard Commands
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio In working on the model for the circular staircase, I learned several keyboard commands in addition to the ones I already knew. This saved a significant amount of time and sped up my design process. Anyone using SketchUp consistently should take advantage of these shortcuts:
Tool
Keyboard Command
Select
Spacebar
Pan
Shift
Line
L
Rectangle
R
Circle
C
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Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio Tool
Keyboard Command
Move
M
Scale
S
Rotate
Q
Push/Pull
P
Offset
F
Tape Measure
T
Eraser
E
Paint Bucket
B
WEEK THREE
Malevich Inspired Construction
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
Kazimir Malevich was a Russian painter and pioneer of geometric abstract art. The images in his lithograph to the left, Supremacist Composition 2, relate strongly to the ideals of Russian constructivist architecture, some of which are as follows: Hierarchical layering of elements Emphasis on structural frame Repeated patterns Linear and curvilinear forms Monumental and dynamic Open forms that extend into space
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L e a r nComputer i n g O b j e c t i vGraphics es
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Learning Portfolio
Import JPG image to use as a design template Use layers to separate template from design elements in model Create a monumental structure that represents the design language of Russian constructivist architecture
WEEK THREE
Malevich Inspired Construction
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
Design Summary
I began this project by importing a JPEG file of Malevich’s art piece, and assigning it to it’s own layer. Then, on a new layer, I used my line tool to trace over shapes of the composition. I did this using “X-ray face styles” so that I could have full understanding of all the shapes that were there as I was working on gathering information. Each time I extracted a new shape from the composition, it was very important to create a new group. I did this because in using my push/ pull tool to turn the the shapes into volumes, I didn’t want my shapes sticking to each other; rather, I wanted to have control of them independently.
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Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
Once I was satisfied with the shapes I had chosen, I turned off the X-ray view and began transforming the forms into volumes using my push/pull tool. I turned off the JPEG layer so I could see what I was designing a little more clearly.
I felt the portion of Malevich’s art piece I chose was lacking curvilinear elements that were in other parts of the piece, so in order to make my form more dynamic I added what looked like an exterior privacy barrier. I also started extruding a roof line.
WEEK THREE
Malevich Inspired Construction
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio I continued my design process by adjusting the scales of the different volumes, and trying to make harmonious combinations. It began to look to me like a residential building, so I added fenestration to suggest that it was a two-level house. I used the Malevich composition as a reference for colors, using a range of neutrals, reds, yellows, and oranges. By coloring certain facades differently than their adjacent facades, it created variety and defined the volumes. I also added a stone texture to an exterior/interior wall, and to the privacy wall which I envisioned enclosing a patio area. In the large image to the right, Susan seems to be waiting outside for her friends to arrive for a dinner party she plans to host on her patio. In the smaller image, Susan is enjoying her sculpture garden.
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Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
WEEK THREE
Malevich Inspired Construction
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
After completing my first Malevich-inspired model, I wanted to create a larger scale, more monumental structure.
The images to the right show the steps for creating a custom background. At top, the JPEG image has been imported into the model and is laying laterally on the ground. I then rotated the image into a vertical position, scaled it to relate to the size of the building, and copied it. Then I drew a rectangle for the ground plane and filled it with a vegetation texture. I scaled the texture so that it was larger and more believable.
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Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
In this image my structure has been placed into its built environment.
WEEK THREE
Malevich Inspired Construction
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
Reflections
The most important part of this project was being able to import JPEG files and use them as a jumping point for the design process. Whenever I begin a creative project, one of my first steps is to find visual inspiration. And in this case, I was able to translate a 2-D graphic directly into a 3-D expression of form. In the early stages of this process, after tracing over shapes, I quickly realized I needed to execute using groups. If I didn’t, the shapes would stick together and get distorted. Also, using the X-ray view helped immensely in drawing and altering shapes and volumes that were overlapping in the composition. Something I hadn’t done before this exercise was using the push/pull tool to push a volume from the ground up. In retrospect it was a simple thing to do, but until this exercise I hadn’t realized how easy it was to create cantilever forms this way.
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Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
And doesn’t Susan’s house look so much better with a custom background?
WEEK FOUR
Folding Paper Airplanes & Sandbox Studies
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
Learning Objectives
Fold “paper” airplanes using the rotate tool Create 3-D terrains using sandbox tools Use the stamp and drape tools to enhance a 3-D terrain Design Summary This week we learned a lot of tools in SketchUp that enhance three-dimensional space. We started off by building a simple airplane. Well, making one out of paper is a little more simple than making one digitally, that is until you have a hang of the tools to execute the process.
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Learning Portfolio The imageComputer below shows allGraphics the steps for making the airplane. I actually used the same process with my SketchUp tools as I would with my hands and a piece of paper. First, I created a plane and folded it in half. Then using my protractor tool I created a guideline at 45 degrees upon which I would make my first fold. I selected the plane I wanted to fold over, and used my rotate tool to fold it about a selected axis. When using the rotate tool it will normally default to rotation about the x, y, or z axis. However, in this case I selected my own axis upon which to fold. This is a two-click process: First, click on one end of the desired axis and then, without letting go, slide along the axis and let the button release upon another point of the “folding” axis. Then click on the selected plane to fold and pull it over to it’s desired position.
WEEK FOUR
Folding Paper Airplanes & Sandbox Studies
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio I then made folds on the same plane, using the same tools, on axis at 22.5 degrees and then at 11.25 degrees. When folding an airplane out of paper the folds are always made in half; that is how I calculated the degrees to make the guidelines with my protractor tool—by dividing 90 degrees in half, and so on and so forth. Once one half of the airplane was completed, I simply selected, copied, and scaled it to become a reflection and moved it into place to complete the whole. Then I rotated the whole airplane up so it was ready for flight.
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Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio I copied my airplane several times and arranged them to make a fleet of airplanes in a triangular formation. Using my sandbox tool, I created a plane for a three-dimensional terrain. I set my grid spacing at 2’, and created a plane that measured 100 square feet. I selected the sandbox plane to put in into edit mode. Then, using my “smoove” tool set at various radiuses, I began to pull parts of the plane up along the blue axis to create hills and valleys.
WEEK FOUR
Folding Paper Airplanes & Sandbox Studies
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio Once I was happy with the contours of my terrain, I used my bucket tools to color it green. I selected and copied the terrain several times to array it and make the overall outdoor environment larger. Next, I colored the tops of the airplanes in my fleet a nice, deep red tone. I moved the fleet over the terrain to make it look like it was flying through the environment I created. I turned my shadows on and adjusted the settings so that the shadows would cast nicely over the terrain below. Finally, I turned on my fog and adjusted the settings to further enhance the surrounding environment. In the image to the right, it seems this fleet of airplanes is out to accomplish a mission, soaring over a lush terrain as the the fog is rising from the valley.
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WEEK FOUR
Folding Paper Airplanes & Sandbox Studies
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
There are additional sandbox tools that can be used to alter a 3-D plane. In the image to the left, I have drawn a plane and a simple volume I want to place there. Using my stamp tool I created a lateral footprint in the terrain that has a gradation to the existing contours of the sandbox plane.
First I selected my stamp tool. It prompted me to enter an offset measurement, which determines the degree of gradation between the footprint and the terrain. Then I selected the plane I wanted to stamp. In this case it was the bottom plane of the rectangular volume. Then I selected the plane upon which I was stamping, which was the 3-D sandbox plane. As you can see, it created a nice plot for me to place the volume onto the curvilinear plane.
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The images to the right show how Computer Graphics to “drape� linear paths onto a curvilinear plane. I first drew a translucent plane above the sandbox plane. Then I drew vertical lines connecting the translucent plane to the curvilinear plane. Using my arc tool, I connected the points of the lines on the translucent plane where I wanted my path to follow. Once I was happy with that, I used my drape tool to project the shape downwards. It prompted me to select the object to drape and what to drape it on, and I was left with my path traced below.
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Learning Portfolio
WEEK FOUR
Folding Paper Airplanes & Sandbox Studies
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio Once my path was draped on the 3-D plane I deleted my construction lines and the translucent plane. I used my bucket tool to fill the plane with a green vegetation texture, and then went in and filled the pathway with a sand texture one square at a time. I imported trees and some cows from the 3-D Warehouse and turned on the fog setting. The image to the right shows the final product, a quaint cottage set atop a hill in the country.
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WEEK FOUR
Folding Paper Airplanes & Sandbox Studies
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
Reflections
The most valuable process I learned from this exercise was creating an outdoor environment in which to place my models. Being able to create a terrain and use the fog and shadows allowed me to tell a more interesting story to the viewer. Importing custom backgrounds, as I did in the Malevich exercise, is another way to strengthen a SketchUp model by telling a more detailed story. One challenge when using sandbox tools is applying colors and textures to the three dimensional plane. Because of the grid spacing, colors need to be edited square by square. However, in my opinion it is well worth the time in order to achieve the “look� desired. The four images to the right show four views of my country property, and what it would look like to walk up the path, say hello to the cows, and ascend the hill to my cottage.
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WEEK FIVE
Interior Studies
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio Learning O bjectives Explore the experiential impact of: Light patterns Shape of space Colors Textures Material choices Furnishing selection & placement Design Summary I began this exercise by creating some building templates to work with. Since SketchUp allows the ability to really explore the use of different design elements, I wanted to develop my interiors with a lot of variety.
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Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
First I made three interior partitions with a footprint of 10’x20’ with different types of fenestration—one with four Georgian style windows with several panes; one with sliding doors; and one with large fixed-pane windows that wrap around the corner. Next I made four types of ceilings—a half-vault ceiling with two skylights; a barrel vault ceiling; a reversed halfvault ceiling with three clearstory windows; and a flat conventional ceiling. Next I collected some furniture. The side tables were imported from the 3-D Warehouse, and the other pieces I built myself. And of course I chose a person to occupy each interior.
WEEK FIVE
Interior Studies
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio This interior has Georgian style windows with a heavy trim. I chose hard wood floors and white walls. I imported a kilim area rug with some intricate patterns and red hues, and a potted plant. I also created a piece of abstract art for the wall. As you can see from the images, windows with several panes create some really interesting shadow patterns as the sun moves across the sky. The best example of this is seen in the image with the conventional ceiling. My favorite ceiling application with this version of fenestration is the barrel vault. It allows more vertical space while maintaining a sense of warmth and intimacy. It looks like Calvin here is getting ready to settle in with a hot tea and a crossword.
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Vault Computer GraphicsBarrel Learning Portfolio
Conventional Ceiling
Half Vault with Skylights
Half Vault with Clearstory Windows
WEEK FIVE
Interior Studies
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio This interior has sliding glass doors. For this room I chose a tile floor, and a series of different area rugs. I also added an accent wall in light turquoise to go with the artwork and began experimenting with furniture arrangements. The ceiling that I feel fits this space best is the half-vault with the skylights. It seems to work best with the geometry of the doors and opens the space up nicely. The light patterns on the wall from the the skylights and doors look dramatic in this afternoon sun. My favorite area rug is in the same room, the black & white chevron rug. Its graphic nature relates nicely to the artwork, and the pattern invites the viewer into the room and draws the eye towards the outdoor view. Heather seems to be enjoying her new art piece that was just delivered from the gallery.
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Vault Computer GraphicsBarrel Learning Portfolio
Conventional Ceiling
Half Vault with Skylights
Half Vault with Clearstory Windows
WEEK FIVE
Interior Studies
Computer Graphics Portfolio This interior has large fixed-pane windowsLearning that return around the corner of the building. In the top two images I used a dark gray carpeting. In the bottom two I explored using concrete flooring; one is tiled and the other is polished. I also explored different arrangements of art and furnishings. The top left image feels very relaxed. The windows and artwork create a visual band around the room that follow the ceiling line. The top right image feels like a more sterile environment. The furniture arrangement suggests it may be a reception room in an office. The bottom left image is starting to look better. I like the feel of the concrete tile, but the placement of the skylights don’t seem to speak to the placement of the windows, which makes me feel disjointed. The bottom right version is my favorite. The gray accent wall speaks to the polished concrete floors and the rug adds a nice pop of color. The geometry of the skylights relate to the art arrangements and there’s some really nice light patterns happening. Jody looks content as she gazes out the window, watching the sun set over the ocean.
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Vault Computer GraphicsBarrel Learning Portfolio
Conventional Ceiling
Half Vault with Skylights
Half Vault with Clearstory Windows
WEEK FIVE
Interior Studies
R e f l e c t Computer ions
Graphics Learning Portfolio
What a great way to experiment with different interior combinations! The part of this exercise that was the most time consuming for me was creating all of my building blocks—my partitions, ceilings, and furniture. But once that was completed I was able to mix and match and have some fun. One challenge I faced was getting the light patterns just right. In a lot of the final images the rooms feel kind of dark. I oriented my rooms so that the windows faced south to get the best light, and changed the shadow settings so the sun would be low in the sky. In many cases I fought the urge to add interior illumination, which SketchUp unfortunately does not do. Using the 3-D warehouse can pose some problems. In many cases I couldn’t find furniture or artwork that met my needs so my solution was to model it myself. Ultimately this was better, because then I had more control over my design.
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Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
In other cases I tried to download a file that was too large (accent pillows for the sofa), and it slowed my computer down so much that I had to restart it. Thankfully, I save my design  work often and I didn’t lose any work. In the image above I added more people to the last interior I discussed to make it look like a cocktail party. I rotated the model to get better light patterns on the floor. The image on the page to the left shows how styles can be used to make the line work look loose and sketchy.
WEEK SIX
P h o t o M a t c h i n g & R i n ’s G a l l e r y
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
Learning Objectives
Use the photo-matching process to create a 3-D digital model from a photograph Build a model to match Tadao Ando’s Rin’s Gallery, located in Kobe, Japan
The image to the left shows the original reference photo superimposed over my finished digital model
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Design Summary
First I imported the photo I wanted to match by going to the Camera menu and selecting “Match New Photo.” When the JPEG is imported a series of grids, axis lines, and a horizon line appears over the image. I adjusted these lines as close to the photo as I could in order to construct the most accurate guidelines for my model. Once I was satisfied, I clicked “done” in the match photo box. Then I used my line tool to begin tracing over the photo and creating planes. It was important to use my arrow keys while drawing to make sure my lines were locked onto the desired axis. By orbiting away from the photo I was able to check my progress.
WEEK SIX
P h o t o M a t c h i n g & R i n ’s G a l l e r y
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
We were provided with a series of other photos taken on site at Rin’s Gallery. Once I gathered as much information from the original photo as I could, I began referencing other photos to expand my model and search for more information about the structure. Below shows the comparison of the original photo with its matching view from my model.
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Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
These images show another comparison of a photo with my model, this time looking down into the courtyard. Because my model doesn’t extend into space as it does in real life, you can see that the sidewalk and street are incomplete in comparison to the photo. In this image of my model I have turned off the shadow settings to see if it will better match the lighting in the photo, which was probably taken on an overcast day.
WEEK SIX
P h o t o M a t c h i n g & R i n ’s G a l l e r y
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
These images show the street view. The gentleman in the dark shirt is walking out of the courtyard seen on the previous two pages. I adjusted the textures to match the brick and sidewalk, imported hanging flowers from the 3-D Warehouse, and used the text tool to add the sign for Rin’s Gallery on the façade.
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Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
Here is another view of the courtyard from above, showing a partial view of the cafĂŠ on the upper level. In the image from my model the 2-D plant and people that were imported from the Warehouse appear flat from this view, which is a drawback of using 2-D files. The hanging flowers are 3-D models, which appear more accurate, but these files are larger and can slow down the computer program during the design process.
WEEK SIX
P h o t o M a t c h i n g & R i n ’s G a l l e r y
R e f l e c t iComputer ons
Graphics Learning Portfolio
The photo-matching process has pros and cons. The benefit of using it is a model of a space can be generated from a simple set of photos, without going on-site and taking extensive measurements. This is a great tool to use for renovations, remodels, or any project where changes are being made to an existing space. However, I noticed that when using this process accurate measurements can be difficult to achieve; the model is built from tracings, so the scale is often a bit askew. Therefore, photo-matching is best used for conceptual purposes. In trying to match my model as accurately as possible to the photos, I learned a lot about construction, and how different structural elements work together. I also realized that textures can be altered in SketchUp, (right click> texture> position) which helped me make my finishes more believable.
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WEEK SEVEN
C a s e S t u d y : To m K u n d i g ’s S o l D u c C a b i n
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
The Sol Duc Cabin was designed by architect Tom Kundig for a client who takes regular trips into the wilderness to go fly-fishing. The client requested an “indestructible” cabin that could be left uninhabited for lengths of time, and be safe from flooding from the nearby river. Nestled in the forest on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington state, this 350 square-foot structure sits off the ground on steel columns. It has a strong steel structure, with matching patina shutters that slide like barn doors to protect the windows when no one is home. It has two levels. The kitchen, living room, and bathroom are on the lower level, and the bedroom is on a second-level loft. A steel deck extends off the living room and a cantilevered roof protects it from the weather. It is compact and low maintenance. The Sol Duc Cabin won a housing award in 2014 from the American Institute of Architects.
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Learning Objectives
Deduce from multiple photographs and drawings from de zeen magazine article “Tom Kundig creates ‘virtually indestructible’ steel cabin on stilts” a comprehensive design presentation of this case study. Based on floor plans, sections, and photo images, generate a model with an exterior, interior, and a site that includes entourage for scale.
WEEK SEVEN
C a s e S t u d y : To m K u n d i g ’s S o l D u c C a b i n
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Design Summary
The first step in constructing this model was to determine the dimensions. The floor plan I was referencing showed relationships but did not include dimensions. So, based on what I observed visually, and knowing from the article that the cabin is 350 sq. feet, I began building with an interior footprint of 15’ x 24’ (360 sq. ft.) I used the doorframe on the floor plan as a unit of measurement. Assuming that it was 3 feet wide I began drawing the other interior elements. I offset the footprint by 8” for exterior walls, and drew all interior partitions at 6”. Once I had a floor plan, I could start building up. I pushed my walls up to 10’, with a plan to make 12”-thick floor plates.
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I started constructing the different building elements on their own layers from the very beginning, and made sure to group each layer once I was finished. With a structure this complex, I wanted to make sure all the building blocks could be altered independently. I took a lot of time studying the photos to understand the skeleton of the building. It looked like the frame was made from I-beams, and L-beams were used for the columns. So I began assembling the cabin piece by piece, feeling almost as if I was a project manager on-site in Washington.
WEEK SEVEN
C a s e S t u d y : To m K u n d i g ’s S o l D u c C a b i n
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Once my floor plates were constructed I revisited the upper and lower levels in more detail. Because the fenestration is the same for both levels, thus creating vertical continuity, I was able to model the structure for level one and duplicate it to create level two. In this image the bottom level is in the earlier phase of the design process. Level two shows the process more developed. I have added more finishes, and also realized there was a window I overlooked which lets natural light into the entry hallway and bedroom.
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Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio After I finished modeling all the elements of
the building I could start assembling them. The image to the left shows in ascending order: I- beam floor plate; level-one partition; I-beam floor plate; level-two partition; I-beam roof plate; I-beam; angled roof. I plugged the L-beam columns into the corner joints, added the steel deck, the entry stairs, and the plumbing column. The image to the left here shows the independent, level-one floor plate after I added the flooring finish and deck. I didn’t extend the floor finish into the bathroom because I had no plan for an all-inclusive view of the bathroom; I preferred to develop the parts of the cabin I found more interesting.
WEEK SEVEN
C a s e S t u d y : To m K u n d i g ’s S o l D u c C a b i n
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I modeled the stairs and deck in the same sitting because it required a lot of the same processes and because they are made of the same materials. This is a perfect example of where “dividing� a line can be very useful. For the deck I built the frame first, drew a guideline for the railing and divided the line into the sections I needed to create the stanchions. Dividing lines is very useful for building sets of stairs too. I first drew a triangle which seemed to match the incline of the stairs. Then I divided the line on the ground plane into 13 sections and push/ pulled them up into steps.
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Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio The roof plate is angled to allow
for runoff. I achieved this by selecting it and rotating one side up enough to sit on an I-beam. I adjusted the materials to match the photos. I created shutters for the windows. The largest shutter slides out on a cantilevered I-beam, and the others slide on rails attached to the exterior facades. I created some hardware to suspend the shutters, as seen in the detailed image to the left. The finish I used to express the patina of the exterior is actually one of SketchUp’s water textures, scaled up in size.
WEEK SEVEN
C a s e S t u d y : To m K u n d i g ’s S o l D u c C a b i n
ComputerI moved Graphics Learning Portfolio indoors to assemble the kitchen unit.
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wanted to import models of the appliances to save time, but all the files I liked the look of were too large. So I modeled my own kitchen which includes the oven & hood, cabinets, sink, waste receptacle, refrigeration unit, shelves and dishes. Next I focused on the bedroom loft. The floor is made to look like laminated 2x4’s, which I colored individually to get the right look. From the photos of the cabin it looks like the loft floorplate sits on top of the I-beam frame, so I plugged it into place. Then I built the stairs and handrail the same I way I built the exterior stairs and handrails. The angle of this particular staircase is more steep, as to not extend into the living room too much.
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It was finally time to furnish the cabin. I chose simple furnishings, because at this point my file was getting pretty large. The bed, chairs, and side table were all imported from the 3-D Warehouse. Something useful I noticed about Warehouse models earlier on is that they can be edited—exploded, scaled, and re-colored—in order to meet the designer’s needs. These models have stayed pretty much the same, but in the past I have changed finishes or the colors of people’s clothes. In the loft I added a shelf adorned with colorful books.
WEEK SEVEN
C a s e S t u d y : To m K u n d i g ’s S o l D u c C a b i n
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio It was time to create a wilderness environment for this cabin to live, so I moved back outside. I used my sandbox tools to create a slightly curvilinear ground plane and added a groundcover texture. Then I searched for a JPEG image that looked like the cabin’s environment in Washington, which I imported, duplicated, and positioned adjacent to each other. I imported 2-D trees and positioned them around the ground plane to create more of a foreground for the final images of my model.
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Now that the design process has been described, lets compare the model to the photos‌
WEEK SEVEN
C a s e S t u d y : To m K u n d i g ’s S o l D u c C a b i n
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
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WEEK SEVEN
C a s e S t u d y : To m K u n d i g ’s S o l D u c C a b i n
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
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WEEK SEVEN
C a s e S t u d y : To m K u n d i g ’s S o l D u c C a b i n
Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio
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WEEK SEVEN
C a s e S t u d y : To m K u n d i g ’s S o l D u c C a b i n
R e f l e cComputer tions
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First of all, I must say that whoever owns this cabin are very lucky people. What a special structure! I enjoyed studying this building for this SketchUp exercise because it stimulated both practical thought and creativity. The construction is so smart for its simple complexity. It seems to have met all of the client’s needs while achieving a union of utility and beauty. The most important aspect in building this model was using layers and groups. Just like construction in the real world, a building in SketchUp gets assembled piece by piece. It is important to keep things organized and grouped so that editing is an easy task if needed. Building a digital model of the Sol Duc Cabin was the culmination of everything I have learned in SketchUp. And as you can see, I have come quite a distance since the beginning of my studies in this program, when I learned how to build a simple doghouse.
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Computer Graphics Learning Portfolio Thank you, readers. I hope you have enjoyed joining me on this journey through the digital world of SketchUp. And a huge thanks to Jerry Lum, who has provided excellent guidance in design and in life experience.
All models and graphic design by Heidi Gaeddert
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