SketchUp by @Last Software, Inc.
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reviewed by Peter Grealy
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 In a market that is saturated with complex modelling programs and expensive graphic rendering software, I have often wondered if I would ever find an application that would be as simple to learn and time efficient at modelling architecture as MacPerspective. Upon visiting SketchUp’s website, it became apparent that the program could be a move in the right direction. It was perfect for generating fast wireframe architectural models and simple graphic renderings. It is purpose-built for sketch-based 3D modelling and architectural visualization and it is exceptionally easy to learn which makes it a great fit for architects and architectural illustrators.
SketchUp streamlines the 3D drawing process in practical and versatile ways. A simple, user-friendly interface, integrated with a robust tool set, makes modelling fast and efficient. “Inference locking” is my favorite aspect of SketchUp. With this feature the program can infer or suggest possible construction lines and points which are parallel, perpendicular to mid points, or end points of other lines and planes. This function saves a significant amount of time entering directional coordinates and superfluous measurements and its ease of operation allows you to focus more on visualizing construction. Modelling tools are basic and practical and are designed to draw and sketch both loosely and accurately. The handy “push-pull” tool quickly generates surfaces into 3D forms and faces of objects can be actively adjusted. This tool is great for quick construction and visualizations. It also makes the familiar request for changes from clients that little bit more manageable, which is generally not the case with other more complex applications.
Interactive camera and zoom tools are plentiful. Choosing views and navigating around the model has never been easier. Precise camera viewpoints can be set by clicking on two points (a viewpoint and a center of vision) and specifying viewing angle, or by simply panning or walking around the scene using the mouse.
Display styles and rendering shaders include “wireframe,” “hidden line,” “shaded” and “shaded with textures.” SketchUp’s signature sketchy images are controlled by three display variables that give broad control over the style, weight and detail of line-work. Rendering shaders have additional parameters such as “X-Ray” and “transparent material” modes that create multilayered effects. These modes are great for visualizing space and mass, for verifying construction integrity and for design feedback. Real-time shadows are easily generated and controlled through simple “time of day” sliders and more specifically through custom geographic location options. All display and rendering styles are supported in “Open GL” so your visual feedback is instantaneous, which makes shadow studies effortless. Collectively, Sketch-Up’s line style parameters and rendering options can produce a vast array of quality images from sketchy wireframes to stylistic graphic presentations suitable for any type of project from small residential to macro urban planning projects. The program offers architectural illustrators a quick and easy method for producing wireframe perspectives and is great at producing a versatile array of digital sketch styles.
An additional benefit of SketchUp is the flexible import and export options, which is usually only found in more expensive software. SketchUp can import CAD models in DWG or DXF formats along with 2D images and SketchUp library components. You can import architects’ models and have the option of exporting models back to them — a scary prospect for some, but still an advantage to be able to do it. SketchUp supports AutoCAD, 3DS and VRML export formats.
2D images (in JPEG, PNG, TIFF and EPIX formats) and vector files (EPS, PDF) along with animation files can also be exported at any resolution and size. These export options make SketchUp compatible with most if not all of today’s digital editing and illustration software.
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 SketchUp also has great online support. Clients can download free viewing software (an approximately 2MB download) to view your creations and animation sequences. There are plenty of “hints and tips,” “surface materials” and “library components” available through user forums and free downloads. Help is made easy through responsive technical support. Well-structured, step-by-step video tutorials make learning effortless and effective: after a few short tutorials you should be well on your way. You can also download a demo version of SketchUp and try before you buy. I’m surprised software developers do not fully market these services more as they are exceedingly helpful to the consumer and add value to the product. After learning more complex software packages like Form·Z, I found using SketchUp refreshingly simple and exceedingly time efficient and I’m no self-proclaimed user expert.
Overall, SketchUp is an amazingly easy and efficient program to use, producing a wide variety of sketch and presentation styles. It has a great feel as a program and would be well suited for illustrators who are not ready to invest large amounts of money and training in high-end modelling/rendering programs. It would also be a perfect replacement for MacPerspective. It retails for under $500 as an electronic download, which represents great value for money. It has won several significant awards and comes highly recommended from users.
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Illustrations by the author.
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