Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What are the advantages of computer simulations over more traditional forms of presentation — artist’s sketches, cardboard models?

Q2: At what stage of design development can I incorporate Maraizon computer simulations?

Q3: What information do you need to create a computer simulation?

Q4: Just how accurate are computer-generated presentations?

Q5: Are computer graphics effective for environmental impact studies?

Q6: What exactly are photo-simulations?

Q7: What is the point of animating a presentation?

Q8: How do you simulate site design?

Q9: How do you simulate materials? Can they precisely match architects’ specifications?

Q10: How do you interpret interior lighting and design?

Q11: Can you add people to your presentations?

Q12: What systems/software do you use?

Q13: Why do you specialize in computer simulations for construction projects?

Q14: How can computer graphics be used for marketing and promotions?

Q15: How long does the process take?

Q16: How are clients kept informed on the project development?

Q17: How much do your services cost?

Q18: How do we get started?

A1: There are several advantages. The key advantage is that they offer a superior form of presentation — due to the following factors:

• Accuracy.
  Maraizon simulations start with a three-dimensional computer model, based on design drawings. All data is proportionally correct, and all views reflect realistic perspectives.

• Aesthetics.
  Maraizon International produces attractive and compelling computer graphic presentations.

• Diversity.
  Once a computer model has been created, it forms the basis for multiple forms of presentation including: animations, still views, photo-simulations, and interactive multimedia.

• Informative.
  Computer graphics provide a clear interpretation of complex plans and elevations, allowing project stakeholders to make informed decisions about a development as it moves through entitlement.

• Cost-effective.
  Once a base computer model has been generated, and materials simulated, design changes and new presentations are developed at nominal cost.

Q2: At what stage of design development can I incorporate Maraizon computer simulations?

A2: We can develop your graphics at any stage in the design process. Increasingly, clients are including computer simulations at the conceptual stage of project development to maximize their triple value as a design tool, an input for entitlement applications and finally for promotional materials.

Q3: What information do you need to create a computer simulation?

A3: Anything from a freehand sketch or photographs of similar projects, to measured drawings or CAD files. CAD files are preferable if accuracy is a key concern (as opposed to a development that is still in the conceptual stage).

Q4: Just how accurate are computer-generated presentations?

A4: Maraizon simulations are accurate to within a half-inch of the design data provided. We model buildings directly from design drawings, and our visual impact simulations always use existing known points as the basis for perspective alignment.

If we are working from freehand sketches or photographs, we model based on standard real world heights, distances etc. common to most building structures.

Q5: Are computer graphics effective for environmental impact studies?

A5: Computer graphics play a key role here. There are several options:

• Photo-simulations demonstrate the visual impact of a development in an existing context.

• Video-composited simulations combine animations of a computer model with live video, such as footage from a moving vehicle.

• Sunlight/shadow animations accurately depict the lighting/shadow of a proposed structure at any time of day on any day of the year.

• Vehicle movement simulations show indicate access, parking, maneuvering and potential congestion for a site.

Q6: What exactly are photo-simulations?

A6: Maraizon photo-simulations involve combining views of a computer model with a photograph of an existing site to accurately demonstrate the true visual impact of the proposed structure. We employ a three-part process:

1. We produce a computer graphic model from design drawings complete with materials and finishes. We also model several key elements from the existing site using survey data.
2. Next, we align a virtual camera to precisely match the view of the computer model to the vantage point of the photograph. This involves lining up the elements modeled from the existing site with the same elements as seen on the photos.
3. Finally we ‘mask’ out the foreground from the site photo and place it over the layer with the computer model. Finishing touches include simulating the shadows and lighting of the existing environment onto the image of the computer model.

Q7: What is the point of animating a presentation?

A7: Animations are the most powerful and versatile forms of presentation. Animation conveys a real sense of ‘being there’ — of ‘driving by’ a proposed new development, or ‘walking through’ interior spaces to help viewers truly determine mass, visual impact, and to envisage the new project in its intended context. It’s an essential tool for any project with a significant visual impact — in historical areas, areas of outstanding natural beauty, hillside, seashore and ridgeline developments, marinas and so on.

Q8: How do you simulate site design?

A8: We comprehensively simulate building sites and surroundings using several methods:

1. We model terrain and hardscape using topographic drawings. We maintain and continuously expand our in-house 3D library of common site objects such as signs, mailboxes, telephone poles, etc.
2. We maintain a library comprising over 500 trees, shrubs and flowers. We also use specialized 3D plant modeling software to simulate virtually any form of vegetation. We work closely with landscape architects to ensure that Maraizon simulations accurately reflect design intent.
3. We create super-realistic and accurate models of surroundings by taking extensive photographs around the site, as well as key measurements.

Q9: How do you simulate materials? Can they precisely match architects’ specifications?

A9: The 3D modeling software that we use employs an extremely sophisticated material simulation engine. Working from color chips or material samples, we can accurately recreate any kind of surface or color. Our revision process further ensures that our clients maintain complete control over the appearance of the finished product.

Q10: How do you interpret interior lighting and design?

A10: For accurate lighting simulation, we use the most advanced lighting simulation technology. This includes radiosity, volumetric lighting and global illumination. We also draw upon considerable skill and experience in the placement and configuration of lighting to complement scenes to best effect.

Q11: Can you add people to your presentations?

A11: We think it is important to add people to a presentation — they add a sense of scale and heightened realism to the graphics. We have employed still models of people to complement our computer graphic presentation, and more recently we have invested in specialized software and talented staff to populate all our animations with people performing appropriate activities for the sites and building models. Please check our website frequently to view examples from new projects.

Q12: What systems/software do you use?

A12: We use a range of systems/software to produce state of the art presentations. Here is an outline of some main components: