SketchUp visual with x-ray function activated.

Students of Design have asked me on a number of occasions, “what software do I use for creating great perspectives”?

Without question, my preferred method for quick visuals is to build a computer generated model, import cad furniture and choose from a selection of dynamic views.  There are numerous CAD packages in the market but without doubt, the simplest and fastest Modeller is SketchUp.  Developed, owned and run by Google, the giant of search engines; SketchUp has impressive credentials behind it.  Oh, did I tell you……… it’s also FREE!

Armed with a sheet of rough dimensions, it is possible to build an average-sized model in around 1-2 hours (perhaps a little longer if you’re a CAD novice).  When your model is built, there are easily 101 ways to render a final perspective which (hopefully if I find time) I will share some techniques with you.

For now and for those who have asked me how to get started with SketchUp, I have sourced a very good video tutorial which lays down the ground rules.  Please take time to watch.  More importantly, take time to watch, listen and learn at a pace you feel comfortable with.

Above all, ……..enjoy yourself!

David

PS

On starting the software for the first time, rather than selecting feet/inches (old Imperial), you may be better prepared and more familiar with the Metric system.  I prefer to use the template “Architectural-Millimetres”.  Whatever you choose, just make sure you’re familiar with the dimensions and are comfortable using them.

Click the “Play” button on the screen to watch.

Please enjoy! If you’d like to comment, please do. I’m always happy to discuss ways I could make a design better, bolder and more unique.

David.

I have however, tested this site and it looks perfect in “Firefox”, the browsing division of the Mozilla group; “a Public Benefit Organisation dedicated to making the Internet better for everyone”.  It’s faster too and without all the crash glitches familiar to IE.  You can download Firefox on the button below, or you can just go there, learn more and check it out first.  It’s perfectly safe and destined to be the No1 browser…….if it isn’t already!

Either way, whichever is your preference is ok……..but please, don’t criticise this website if it doesn’t look right in your default browser!

David

Oak Leaf (screenprint, poster paint and newsprint)

Hello and a very big, warm welcome to all.

I don’t know how you managed to find this site.  Maybe you clicked on a link, maybe you searched for me or maybe divine providence guided you here……..whatever manner you found me, it’s not important.  What’s great is that you’re here now and I hope you will continue to come back time and again…even if it’s just to catch up with what I’m doing.  You’re welcome to drop me a “hello, how are you?” anytime.

Now you’re here, what can you expect?  Expect to find a collection of my ideas, my thoughts, my work, my ideals and my creations……all centred around the creative fields of Architecture, Art, Garden Design, Interior Design and Photography.   In fact, anything I feel inspired about or prompted to get out of my mind and down on “paper”.  Whatever I decide to publish, you are all very welcome to comment about, advise upon and share your thoughts with me and those who come here to visit.

If you’re here to find inspiration, great, you’ve come to the right place.  Here you’ll find all sorts of inspired words, pictures, ideas and designs.  Some are for fun.  Some are by others.  Some are created by me, for others.  If you’re looking for design advice, you’ll find that here too.  Occasionally I will sell items of Art that I have created.  Again you are very welcome to comment or purchase if you would like an original.  Also open to new commissions and design projects…..all you have to do is drop me a message with your query.

I hope you will enjoy your visit.  Please feel free to interact with me and with those who visit and comment.  Looking forward to getting to know you…..better.

David MacQueen

Please contact me on 07974 927564 inside UK (International +44) if you would like to chat live with me, or if you prefer to email me, please send me your query to david@davidmacqueen.com and I’ll get back to you right away.