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How to Make 3D Buildings

Three-dimensional buildings can be constructed in just about any 3-D software. They are useful as backdrops and props for video games or for artwork. While the specific commands may vary between programs, the techniques for making simple buildings are straightforward and applicable to most software.

Things You'll Need

3-D software

Instructions

- 1
  Open a 3-D graphics program such as 3ds Max, Bryce or Carrara 3D.
- 2
  Create a cube. Make it as wide or as tall as you need the building to be for your scene.
- 3
  Apply a glass texture with high reflection. This is your building base.
- 4
  Duplicate the building base in the same position. Keep the duplicate selected.
- 5
  Adjust the x, y and z axis measurements of the duplicate so it is just slightly larger than the building base. For example, if the base is 10 inches in the y dimension, make the duplicate no more than 10.1 inches.
- 6
  Apply a grid texture to the duplicate. Use one with a clear grid and transparency between the grid lines. Placed over the building base's glass texture, this will give the impression of repeating window frames, like on a typical office building.
- 7
  Paste in another duplicate cube. Set the horizontal dimensions slightly wider than the first duplicate, but make the vertical dimension 5 percent or less of the other duplicate's height. Lift this duplicate to the top of your building and apply a concrete or asphalt texture to create a rooftop.
- 8
  Group the three cubes together and position your building where needed.

Computer Games