All You Need to Know About Interior Design Renderings

Interior Rendering in the Interior Design World

Did you know that interior design 3D renderings have changed the way interior architects and clients collaborate on interior space projects? In this article, you’ll discover the essence of interior design renderings, the 3D rendering software options for using to produce 3D interior projects, the rendering process, and a few benefits for both interior designers and clients. You’ll also explore real-world examples and learn valuable tips to have appealing and storytelling interior visualizations in your business and projects. Let’s dive in!

storytelling architectural visualization

Pending competition / Iconic Mosque, Dubai, UAE / Designers: Sterling Presser Architects + Engineers x EMAAR / Outsourcing 3D rendering services to: RNDR

What is the Main Purpose of Interior Design Renderings?

Interior design renderings are digital visualizations which help to develop presentations of a project’s progress, showcase layout, elements and colors, and aid in refining projects and designs before implementation. That is why interior 3D renderings main role is helping interior architects and their customers visualize the final project, allowing for more accurate feedback and a better end result.

The Essence of Interior Design Renderings

Interior design renderings play a crucial role in refining designs before project implementation, as they enable interior designers to illustrate their ideas graphically and facilitate the transition from conceptualization to manifestation. The primary distinction between a rendered 3D interior design and a sketch is that renderings allow for the evaluation of all design elements in appropriate sizes and proportions, with accurate colors and textures. This way, both interior architects and customers can ensure that the proposed space ticks all the boxes for aesthetic appeal and functionality.

In today’s world, interior design renderings are not only limited to residential properties like living rooms and kitchens, but also extend to commercial spaces such as shopping malls and office buildings. With the help of 3D rendering software, interior architects can produce photorealistic, storytelling and quality 3D images of the space from different angles, allowing customers to visualize the final project result and provide valuable feedback during the creative process.

real estate rendering

HWIII Zitadellenweg, Berlin Spandau, Germany / Interior architects: Pott Architects / Architectural 3D interior design rendering: RNDR

Types of Interior Renderings

Interior renderings can either be 2D or 3D, though 3D interior renderings provide a more realistic and immersive visual experience. There are various rendering techniques, such as solid, surface, and wireframe rendering. Solid rendering uses geometric shapes like cylinders, cones, and spheres to generate interior architectural forms. Surface rendering, on the other hand, is used to generate panoramas of interior spaces.

Wireframe rendering is another technique that involves creating a 3D model composed of lines, points, and curves that trace the object’s shape. This method is particularly useful for interior architects who want to focus on the structural components of a space rather than the surface details. Each type of rendering has its unique advantages and applications, depending on the specific needs of the designer and the project.

3D Rendering Role in the Creative Process

Interior architecture renderings in interior design offer several benefits:

  • Facilitate comprehension and accuracy in designer presentations
  • Enhance the aesthetic appeal of the design
  • Identify miscalculations or inaccuracies in the layout
  • Allow for prompt modifications, adjustments, and ultimately saves time
  • Streamline communication and ensure everyone is on the same page
  • Contribute significantly to customer satisfaction.

Moreover, interior design 3D renderings enable interior architects to capture micro details and explain intricate solutions to customers who may not have design experience. With virtual reality views, customers can immerse themselves the proposed layout of the space, breaking down any technical language barriers and providing a clear understanding of the designer’s vision.

Ultimately, the use of interior design renderings in the creative workflow saves time and money by identifying potential issues early on, leading to expedited approval, a higher likelihood of success, and benefit your architectural business.

interior renderings

Unit Houses Interior / Interior designer: Ocean Community / Architectural interior rendering showing the micro detail of maritime project: RNDR

Top Rendering Software for Interior Designers

A variety of 3D rendering software options are available for producing simple interior design renderings to cater to every designer’s needs. Some popular in-house choices include:

  • Autodesk AutoCAD software: Can be used for designing, drafting, and documenting precise 3D concepts and drawings. The LT version offers a free trial followed by a monthly fee of $55.
  • SketchUp Pro software: Available for an annual fee of $269. Provides custom styles and materials, compatibility with virtual reality platforms, unlimited cloud storage, and report generation.
  • Foyr Neo software: Foyr Neo offers a 14-day free trial and allows interior architects to create 2D floor plans and customize 3D designs in real-time, as well as access one-click 3D model walk-throughs.
  • Other software options, such as Lumion, Twinmotion, Autodesk Revit, Archicad 25, Unreal Engine, and TurboCAD, also provide powerful tools and features to enhance the designer’s workflow and basic 3D renderings made internally.

Which Rendering Software is the Best for Interior Design?

3ds Max rendering software is the clear winner for interior design, leading the 3D rendering studios industry, offering modeling, 3D rendering, and animation solutions. It has a wide range of features that make it the perfect choice for any 3D rendering studio or interior designer, from its intuitive user interface to its 3D rendering capabilities.

Choosing the Right Software

When selecting rendering software for interior design visualizations, it is essential to evaluate aspects, such as features, usability, compatibility with other software, cost, and hardware requirements. Some features to consider include the rendering software’s capability to generate realistic visuals, a variety of textures, customizable lighting, and animation production.

Compatibility with other software, such as CAD programs, 3D modeling software, and other rendering software, should also be taken into account to ensure a smooth workflow of a designer. Additionally, consider the cost of the software, as well as any additional costs related to hardware needs or supplementary features.

By carefully weighing these factors, interior architects can choose the right design software to produce at least basic interior design renderings that cater to their specific needs and requirements.

interior visualization

Mumbai University, India / Interior designer: Foster + Partners / Architectural interior renderings help to create interior design: RNDR

The Interior Design 3D Rendering Workflow

Creating interior design renderings involves a series of steps, starting from gathering data and resources to modeling and texturing the room, through choosing the right perspective, and finally applying lighting and rendering techniques. The initial phase of gathering data and resources involves researching the space, taking precise measurements, and collecting relevant images and other resources that can be utilized to generate the design.

Next, the process of modeling and texturing involves constructing a scale drawing or 3D model of the proposed design, illustrating the placement of structural components, furniture, and appliances in the space.

Lastly, lighting and rendering techniques are applied using 3D rendering software to generate photorealistic images, giving the customers a clear understanding of the final product.

#1 Gathering Data and Resources for 3D Rendering Project Creation

Interior designers and architects must collect accurate information on space dimensions, textures, and furniture to create or to outsource quality and storytelling 3D renderings. This data can be obtained through online databases, libraries, and other sources, ensuring that the renderings accurately represent the space being designed.

Having access to the appropriate data and resources for interior design 3D rendering is crucial, as it enables interior designers to produce accurate renderings that accurately reflect the space being designed. By gathering all the necessary information and resources, interior architects can:

  • Ensure accurate measurements and dimensions of the floor plan
  • Use accurate textures and materials in the rendering
  • Incorporate accurate lighting and shadows
  • Showcase their design ideas in the most effective manner possible, not only on mood board
    3D interior rendering

    Kitchen at Hattersheim, Germany / Interior designer: Immowerk / 3D interior rendering: RNDR

    #2 Modeling and Texturing as a First Step in Rendering Workflow

    The process of modeling and texturing is an essential component of interior design 3D rendering projects, as it enables interior architects to generate 3D representations of their designs, furnishing customers with an accurate preview of the final outcome. Modeling involves constructing a scale drawing or 3D model of the proposed design, illustrating the placement of structural components, furniture, and appliances in the floor plan.

    Texturing, on the other hand, involves applying materials and textures to the 3D model to produce a lifelike representation as a 3D rendering of interior of the floor plan. By combining accurate modeling and texturing, interior architects can create interior design 3D rendering that effectively showcases their design ideas and help customers visualize the final result beyond the technical language barriers.

    #3 Choosing the Right Perspective of Rendering

    The next step is framing and choosing the most suitable perspective. This is crucial step due to the fact that it decides what will be shown and what will be hidden on the interior rendering.

    More you can read in this article: Principal Viewpoints for Interior Renderings – Choosing the Right Perspective

    #4 Rendering and Lighting the 3D Interior Project

    Applying proper lighting techniques and rendering is crucial for enhancing the realism and appeal of interior design renderings. The most commonly used lighting techniques in interior design renderings are:

    • Ambient lighting: provides a general illumination in the scene.
    • Directional lighting: used to create shadows and highlights.
    • Point lighting: employed to create a more realistic effect, such as a light source coming from a window or a lamp.

    By utilizing these lighting techniques effectively, you can create stunning and realistic interior design renderings. On top of that by choosing 3D rendering software, interior architects can:

    • Generate quality 3D rendering set that provide customers with a clear understanding of the design options and showcases the project layout through different camera angles.
    • Experiment with different lighting techniques to develop 3D renderings that effectively demonstrate the design elements.
    • Provide customers with a comprehensive view of the proposed floor plan and develop presentations for better customer satisfaction and project understanding.
    3D interior design visualizations

    Geneva International School, Switzerland / Architecture design: Kraaijvanger Architects / Architectural interior 3D rendering: RNDR

    Benefits of Interior Design Renderings

    Interior design renderings offer advantages for both interior architects and their customers. For interior designers, renderings enhance communication with clients, facilitate collaboration between interior architects, architects, and builders, and enable them to develop a strong reputation and acquire more customers. They also allow interior designers to experiment with different design options and avoid costly mistakes.

    For customers, renderings provide a clear visual representation of the design, enabling them to identify design flaws earlier, strengthening communication and relationships with clients and increasing the likelihood of success and prompt approval. In addition, renderings allow customers to provide feedback and make necessary alterations prior to the commencement of construction or renovation, ensuring that the design is precisely to their liking.

    For Interior Designers and Architects

    Renderings are essential for interior architects as they help communicate design concepts effectively and showcase their ideas in a visually appealing manner. By providing realistic 3D interior design renderings, interior architects can capture micro details and explain intricate solutions to clients who may not have design experience.

    Moreover, interior design renderings enable interior architects to:

    • Identify potential issues in advance, thus avoiding costly mistakes
    • Save time and money
    • Streamline the planning process
    • Deliver a better final product to their customers

    By using renderings to present their design ideas, interior architects can achieve these benefits.

    For Clients

    For customers, interior design renderings offer a clear visual representation of the proposed design, allowing them to recognize any design discrepancies and make necessary alterations before construction or renovation begins. This ensures that the design is exactly what the client envisioned, saving time and money on potential redesigns or changes during the construction process, which is very cost-effective.

    Furthermore, interior design renderings enable clients to provide valuable feedback on the design, allowing for a more collaborative and efficient planning process. By incorporating 3D renderings into the design process, customers can work closely with interior architects to create a space that meets their needs and preferences, leading to a more satisfying final result.

    exterior storytelling rendering

    1st Prize / Azieweg in Haarlem, Netherlands / Interior architects: VORM x Bosch Slabbers x Geurst & Schulze Architecten / 3D interior design rendering: RNDR

    Real-World Examples of Interior Design Renderings

    Interior design renderings are used in various settings, showcasing their versatility and practicality. In residential spaces, renderings are often utilized to visualize:

    • Living rooms
    • Kitchens
    • Bedrooms
    • Other areas of the home

    This allows customers to see the potential of their future home before construction or renovation begins.

    In commercial spaces, renderings can be employed for:

    • Hotels
    • Restaurants
    • Retail stores
    • Office spaces

    These 3D interior renderings help businesses create a more appealing and inviting atmosphere for patrons. Public spaces, such as museums, libraries, and parks, also benefit from the use of interior design renderings to pre-visualize the design and its elements.

    interior visualizations

    16-storey building, Bellevue, Washington, USA / Interior designer: Katerra Inc. / 3D interior living room design rendering of a residential space: RNDR

    #1 Residential Spaces

    In residential spaces, an interior designer often uses interior design renderings to help customers visualize the design of their home.

    • Living rooms
    • Kitchens
    • Bedrooms
    • Other areas of the home

    By providing a clear and accurate representation of the proposed space, interior architects can ensure that their customers are satisfied with the final result and that the design meets their specific needs and preferences.

    Examples of interior design renderings in residential spaces include showcasing living rooms with different furniture arrangements and color schemes, as well as detailed 3D models of kitchens, showcasing various cabinetry styles and layouts as in real life. These 3D interior renderings enable clients to make informed decisions about their home’s design and ensure that the final outcome is exactly what they envisioned.

    interior visualization

    1st prize competition / Langeweg Hoek, Residential Complex, Netherlands / Interior designers: Groosman Architecten x LAP Landscape & Urban Design / 3D interior design rendering of a residential space: RNDR

    #2 Commercial Spaces

    In commercial spaces, interior renderings are commonly employed to visualize the design of:

    • Hotels
    • Restaurants
    • Retail stores
    • Office spaces

    These 3D architectural renderings can help businesses create a more appealing and inviting environment for their patrons, as well as visualize the potential of their space before construction or renovation begins.

    Examples of interior renderings in commercial spaces include detailed 3D models of hotel lobbies, showcasing various seating arrangements and decorative elements, as well as photorealistic images of restaurant interiors, highlighting different lighting techniques and material choices. By utilizing renderings in commercial spaces, businesses can make informed decisions about their design and ensure that their space is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

    Architectural rendering of coworking spaces

    Watergeus in Leiden, Netherlands / Real estate developers and interior architects: FSD x Architekten Kombinatie x Delva / 3D interior design rendering of a commercial coworking business space: RNDR

    #3 Public Spaces

    Interior renderings are regularly used in public spaces to pre-visualize the design of the space prior to its construction. This may include seating plans, color schemes, and other design elements for spaces, such as museums, libraries, shopping malls, and parks. By using renderings in public spaces, interior architects can create a more welcoming and visually appealing atmosphere for visitors.

    Examples of interior renderings in public spaces include detailed 3D models of museum exhibits, showcasing various display arrangements and lighting techniques, as well as photorealistic images of library interiors, highlighting different furniture layouts and material choices. These renderings allow interior designers and stakeholders to make informed decisions about the design of public spaces, ensuring that they are both functional and visually appealing for the community.

    interior render

    Natural History Museum / Interior project made with using different tools to create a 3D interior design rendering: RNDR

    Tips for Creating Appealing Interior Design Renderings

    To create high-quality and visually appealing interior renderings, it is essential to pay attention to detail, use the right tools, and experiment with lighting and materials. By focusing on these key aspects, interior designers can create renderings that effectively showcase their design ideas and provide customers with a comprehensive understanding of the proposed space.

    Incorporating these tips into the 3D rendering process can greatly improve the quality and realism of the final product, ensuring that clients are satisfied with the design and that the designer’s vision is accurately represented – all with just a few clicks.

    With the right approach, interior design rendering services, can be a powerful tool for both interior designers and customers, leading to successful projects and beautiful, functional spaces.

    #1 Attention to Detail

    Ensuring accuracy in dimensions, materials, and textures is crucial for creating realistic and appealing renderings. By paying close attention to micro detail, interior designers can generate images that accurately represent the space being designed and provide customers with a clear understanding of the final outcome. This includes incorporating human elements, such as a throw on the sofa, to create a more “lived-in” and realistic look in the 3D renders.

    By focusing on the finer points of the design, such as the placement of furniture, the choice of materials, and the effect of lighting, interior designers can create renderings that effectively communicate their ideas and showcase the full potential of the space.

    Interior render

    Amsterdam University Competition / Interior designer: Studio Leon Thier / 3D interior design rendering: RNDR

    #2 Using the Right Tools for Interior Rendering

    Selecting the appropriate rendering software and tools for the job can greatly impact the quality of the renderings. With a range of software options to choose from, like Autodesk AutoCAD, SketchUp Pro, and more, interior designers can find a program that meets their specific needs and requirements.

    stroytelling interior render

    Private Villa, Ibiza, Spain / Interior design: Desarrollos Vista Alegre S. L. /  An image showing the effect of process of creating interior design rendering using the right tools: RNDR

    #3 Experimenting with Lighting and Materials on Interior Rendering

    Playing with different lighting techniques and materials can enhance the realism and appeal of the renderings. Ambient, directional, and point lighting are commonly used, each offering unique advantages depending on the desired outcome. Experimenting with materials, such as fabrics, wood, stone, and metal, can also help interior designers create a variety of effects and textures in their renderings.

    Do Interior Designers Produce 3D Rendering?

    Yes, interior designers make 3D renderings by themselves or outsource their creation to a 3D rendering company, in order to visualize their designs for clients comprehensively. This allows them to show the client exactly what the space will look like before any construction begins. It also helps them to make sure that the design is exactly what the client wants.

    3D Floorplan rendering

    3D floor plan rendering showing the spatial relationships

    How do Interior Design Rendering Services Help Designers and Architects?

    Interior design renderings help interior designers effectively communicate their ideas, explore different options, and prevent costly errors. They provide a visual representation of the space, allowing to see how the elements of the design will work together. They also help to identify potential problems before construction begins, saving time and money.

    In conclusion, interior design renderings play an important role in the design process, offering benefits for both interior designers and clients. By understanding the essence of interior design renderings, utilizing the right software and tools (or outsourcing them to the right 3D rendering company), and following tips for creating appealing renderings, interior designers can effectively communicate their ideas and bring their visions to life. With the power of interior design renderings, the possibilities for creating stunning and functional spaces are truly limitless.

    Want to Know More About Architectural Visualizations?

    If you’re an interior architect or designer interested in exploring and learning more about the artistic 3D illustrations we produce, please visit our website and our social media accounts:

    Malgo Widaj

    Malgo Widaj

    founder and owner of RNDR, art director, and head of all operations at RNDR

    After 10 years of designing public spaces around Europe in both projects and competitions, a desire was born to start an international atelier with an inclusive and sustainable approach, that focuses on meaningful beauty creation driven by tech. And it happened!

    Now RNDR teams are helping product designers, architects, and developers around the globe to increase visual communication through storytelling images, improve media presence, win project competitions or leverage sales through rendering experiences.

    DO YOU HAVE THE TIME AND SKILLS
    TO CREATE HIGH-QUALITY RENDERS?

    DO YOU HAVE THE TIME AND SKILLS
    TO CREATE HIGH-QUALITY RENDERS?