When 3D modeling first appeared, it was not at all what we know it to be now. And its value to architectural modeling has been underestimated for some time.

This brief overview of the history of 3D modeling for architecture and design should give you more insight.

The beginning: the 1960s

The history of 3D modeling begins with. Sketchpad, a program that could read drawings made with a light pen, invented by Sutherland in 1963. Sketchpad could create many similar drawings based on the main drawing. In addition, it could correct all of them when any changes were made to the main drawing.

Seemingly nothing to do with 3D modeling, right?

The stunning 3D designs we can see now have been evolving for decades.

First Steps: 1990-2000

Since 3D modeling became more popular, it’s no longer just used for advertising and television. Many industries have incorporated it, including design and architecture. In particular, this changed with the release of many 3D modeling programs in the 1990s. The first versions of today’s Autodesk 3d Max, Cinema 4D, Blender and Maya appeared around that time.

Around the same time NURBS modeling began to evolve. Although the first models were low poly and unrealistic, it was a whole new level for architecture and design that no one could even imagine.

Gaining popularity: 2000-2010

Over the next decade, the popularity of CGI in architectural modeling only progressed. It opened up many new possibilities and functionalities for designers. Computer graphics programs became even more advanced.

In particular, Autodesk 3d Max introduced the Fur & Hair module and new materials such as wool and glass. Autodesk Revit, a very popular program among engineers and architects, was released at this time. As 3D became more photorealistic, many rendering programs were also released during this period.

Total Success: 2010-2020

In the last decade, the concept of 3D architectural modeling has become universally accepted. You won’t meet a single designer or architect who doesn’t use 3D for rendering. Now you can find not only a variety of software, but also many 3D rendering services used in architectural design.

Architectural modeling now uses more textures, materials and lighting effects to create high-quality designs. You can hardly tell the difference between 3D design and real photographs.