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COMPLETE RHINO 3D (v8) + D5 base for Architects & Designers

4.7 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Based on 83 ratings
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jonathan Alotto

We will design together a tower in 3D starting from a sketch all the way to renderings and layout.

During the process, i will make sure to hit all the most important commands that you need to know as a designer.

I have been using Rhino as a design Architect for more than 15 years. What i realized is that you only need to know approximately 80 to 100 commands to model any geometry that your architecture journey will put before you.

In this course i will cover 130 commands which will give you a solid toolbox to generate the simple but also the more advanced massing.

Read more

We will design together a tower in 3D starting from a sketch all the way to renderings and layout.

During the process, i will make sure to hit all the most important commands that you need to know as a designer.

I have been using Rhino as a design Architect for more than 15 years. What i realized is that you only need to know approximately 80 to 100 commands to model any geometry that your architecture journey will put before you.

In this course i will cover 130 commands which will give you a solid toolbox to generate the simple but also the more advanced massing.

At the end of each chapter, you will see a workflow consolidation course. This is where you will gradually enrich your shortcut skills and efficiency in using the software. This is an important step that will help you save a lot of time in your modeling.

Since Rhino rendering isn't the best. I added a course using a free software that is way more appropriate for designers. With a minimum amount of effort, you can get out amazing images and save a lot of time on designing instead of setting up lighting, texture, people etc...

Finally you will learn how to get the most out of your 3D model for diagrams by playing with the Rhino Display Mode. Texture Mapping, adding shadows, play with line-weight etc..

We will also see how to slice your model and generate Layout with annotations.

A 100% of what you see in the presentation video is extracted from the course.

This course is appropriate for all levels, even for absolute beginner.

I will be using Rhino 8 for PC. Mac users, and or PC users with lower Rhino versions can still follow the class as more than 90% of the commands will be the same. However, for the rendering software i am presenting in Chapter 9, Mac users will not be able to use it as it is not compatible.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Import a hand skecth to scale in rhino
  • Vectorize your sketch with 2d curves
  • 3d modeling from basic to advanced geomery
  • Model your site from surveyor's document
  • Learn how to apply texture and play with display mode to export diagrams of your project
  • Create more realistic images and animation with a free software synchronized with rhino
  • Setup and export layout drawings from your model
  • Improve your workflow efficiency with rhino

Syllabus

Introduction

Here are two documents you can print on the side to help you follow the course. the first document lists out all the key commands you will learn in each video. The second document is my personal recommendation on what are the most critical commands you need to know as an Architect.

Read more

In this course we will have a quick overlook on the Rhino interface. We will cover the essentials so you can start modeling right away with me on next course. At the end of each chapter, i will add a workflow consolidation course so you can gradually complete your rhino interface knowledge.

Learn how to import your hand sketch into Rhino and ensure it's in the right scale. 

Adjust some display settings to make it more easy for you to trace over it using curves.

Curve identification and control points.

Setup our plan grid.

Setup the tower columns using Blocks.

Offset curves with all the different offset options.

Curve connection and manipulation.

Use curve operation to draw more organic lines.

Curve adjustment such as split and trim on multiple curve at a time.

Explore sub-options of curve tools

Understand the "Project" option and the Construction Plane functionalities

Learn the surface typology and how Rhino differentiate them. Understand what is a Surface in Rhino and what useful data you can get out of them

Build a 3D geometry from sketch and Curves

Find out a lot of the surface tools are similar to the Curve tools which makes them easier to understand and remember.

Import an object from other source and work with it

Improve your focus and design efficiency

Use and understand the difference between Sweep1 and Sweep2 command

Learn how to use 2 different types of array while building the tower.

Build a curtain wall facade using blocks and ArrayCrv

Apply facade to all the tower

Be more efficient with your selection method

Use block in a smart way to show options in the same folder.

Improve your snapping efficiency

Organize your file and texture to synchronize with the rendering Engine.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Covers 130 commands, providing a solid toolbox for generating both simple and advanced massing, which is essential for architectural design
Includes workflow consolidation courses at the end of each chapter, enriching shortcut skills and efficiency in using the software, which saves modeling time
Demonstrates how to get the most out of 3D models for diagrams by manipulating Rhino Display Modes, which is useful for presentations and design communication
Uses Rhino 8 for PC, but is also accessible to Mac users and PC users with lower Rhino versions, as more than 90% of the commands are the same
Teaches how to create realistic images and animations using a free rendering software synchronized with Rhino, which is valuable for design visualization
The rendering software presented in Chapter 9 is not compatible for Mac users, which may limit the experience for some learners

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Reviews summary

Rhino 3d + d5 for architecture

According to learners, this course is a solid foundation for using Rhino 3D, especially for architects and designers. Students frequently highlight the instructor's expertise and clear explanations, finding the focus on essential commands and workflow tips particularly valuable. The hands-on project, building a tower from sketch to rendering, is seen as a practical and effective way to learn. The inclusion of D5 Render is a significant positive, offering a better alternative to Rhino's native renderer. While it's considered great for beginners, some more experienced users might find it less detailed on advanced topics. The course covers a wide range of practical applications, from modeling to layout.
Tips provided to improve modeling speed.
"The workflow consolidation courses at the end of chapters are very helpful for building efficiency."
"Learning the instructor's recommended shortcuts and workflow tips is a game-changer for speed."
"The course emphasizes practical ways to improve modeling speed and organization."
"I learned valuable techniques for managing complex models and speeding up my process."
Course is suitable for those new to Rhino.
"As someone completely new to Rhino, I found this course easy to follow and a great starting point."
"It truly is appropriate for absolute beginners, guiding you from the very basics of the interface."
"The pace and explanations are tailored well for someone without prior 3D modeling experience."
"I was able to confidently start using Rhino after completing the initial chapters of this course."
Useful addition for better visualizations.
"The D5 Render section is fantastic! It's much easier and faster to get good renderings than using Rhino's built-in tools."
"Learning D5 Render as part of this course adds significant value, especially since it's free and integrates well."
"The rendering chapter was a major plus, providing skills needed for presenting architectural projects effectively."
"I found the D5 portion particularly helpful for producing high-quality images without a steep learning curve."
Teaches core commands necessary for design.
"The course really delivers on its promise to teach the most essential Rhino commands needed for architectural modeling."
"Instead of overwhelming you, the focus on the critical 80-100 commands is highly effective for getting started."
"I learned the key tools necessary to start modeling my own designs quickly and efficiently."
"The curated list of important commands saved me a lot of time compared to trying to learn everything at once."
Hands-on tower project helps apply skills.
"Building the tower from start to finish was an excellent way to see how all the commands fit together in a real workflow."
"The project-based learning solidifies understanding much better than just isolated command explanations."
"Working through the tower model provided practical experience that I can apply to my own projects."
"Following the creation of a complex model step-by-step made the learning process engaging and effective."
Instructor is knowledgeable and explains well.
"The instructor is extremely knowledgeable and explains concepts very clearly. His background as an architect using Rhino is evident."
"I appreciated the instructor's pace and his ability to break down complex commands into understandable steps."
"He goes over the essential commands thoroughly, which is exactly what I needed as a beginner in Rhino."
"His teaching style makes it easy to follow along and apply what you're learning immediately."
Mentions specific version and OS needs.
"Important to note that the D5 Render portion is not available for Mac users as mentioned in the course description."
"The course primarily uses Rhino 8 for PC, though most commands are similar in older versions or on Mac."
"Being aware of the Mac limitation for D5 is crucial before enrolling if rendering is a key goal."
"While the core Rhino content is largely cross-platform, the rendering section has OS restrictions."
May lack depth on some advanced topics.
"While great for essentials, it doesn't go into significant depth on very advanced or complex modeling techniques."
"Could use more coverage on specific organic modeling tools or complex surface manipulation for intermediate users."
"I found that some niche tools weren't covered, requiring me to look elsewhere for advanced topics."
"The course provides a strong base but leaves some higher-level functionalities for self-exploration."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in COMPLETE RHINO 3D (v8) + D5 base for Architects & Designers with these activities:
Review 2D Curve Creation Techniques
Reinforce your understanding of fundamental 2D curve creation techniques in Rhino to prepare for more complex 3D modeling tasks.
Show steps
  • Practice drawing lines, arcs, and circles using different methods.
  • Experiment with different curve editing tools like trim, extend, and fillet.
  • Recreate simple 2D shapes from reference images using Rhino's curve tools.
Read 'The NURBS Book'
Gain a deeper understanding of the underlying mathematical principles behind Rhino's NURBS-based modeling.
View The NURBS Book (Monographs in Visual... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the chapters on curve and surface definitions.
  • Study the examples of NURBS applications in geometric modeling.
  • Relate the concepts in the book to the tools and commands used in Rhino.
Model a Simple Building Facade
Apply the Rhino commands learned in the course to create a detailed 3D model of a building facade, reinforcing your modeling skills.
Show steps
  • Find reference images of a building facade you admire.
  • Break down the facade into simpler geometric components.
  • Model each component in Rhino using appropriate commands.
  • Assemble the components to create the complete facade model.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Rhino Command Cheat Sheet
Compile a personalized cheat sheet of frequently used Rhino commands to improve workflow efficiency.
Show steps
  • List the Rhino commands you use most often.
  • Write a brief description of each command's function.
  • Include keyboard shortcuts for each command.
  • Organize the cheat sheet for easy reference.
Follow Advanced Rhino Tutorials
Explore advanced modeling techniques and workflows by following online tutorials focused on specific architectural design challenges.
Show steps
  • Search for tutorials on topics like parametric modeling or complex surface creation.
  • Follow the tutorial step-by-step, paying attention to the commands and techniques used.
  • Adapt the tutorial's techniques to your own design projects.
Read 'Rendering with V-Ray for Rhino'
Learn how to create photorealistic renderings of your Rhino models using V-Ray.
View Putting Knowledge to Work on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the chapters on lighting and materials.
  • Experiment with different V-Ray settings to achieve desired effects.
  • Practice rendering your Rhino models using V-Ray.
Develop a Portfolio of Rhino Models
Showcase your Rhino modeling skills by creating a portfolio of architectural designs and visualizations.
Show steps
  • Select your best Rhino models from the course and personal projects.
  • Create high-quality renderings and diagrams of each model.
  • Write a brief description of each project, highlighting your design process and modeling techniques.
  • Organize the portfolio in a visually appealing format.

Career center

Learners who complete COMPLETE RHINO 3D (v8) + D5 base for Architects & Designers will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Architectural Designer
An Architectural Designer conceptualizes and develops building designs. This course helps build a foundation in 3D modeling, which is essential for visualizing and presenting architectural concepts. The course covers 130 commands to generate massing, which provides the skills needed to translate design ideas into detailed 3D models. Learning to import hand sketches and vectorize them into 3D models is crucial for early design phases. Furthermore, this course teaches how to set up and export layout drawings from models.
See salaries and explore the career path for Architectural Designer
Interior designer
An Interior Designer plans and designs interior spaces to be functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing. This course helps the designer build a strong foundation in 3D modeling. With the course, the interior designer is able to visualize design concepts and create detailed plans. Learning to apply textures and customize display modes helps designers present their ideas effectively. The ability to create realistic images and animations allows the designer to showcase the final design. This course can help in creating detailed layouts with annotations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Interior designer
Model Maker
A Model Maker constructs physical and digital models for various purposes including architectural visualization and product prototyping. This course helps build skills in 3D modeling, which is essential for creating digital models. The course covers essential commands for generating architectural models, providing skills to translate design ideas into detailed 3D models. Learning to import sketches and vectorize them into 3D models is crucial for creating scaled models. This course will help model makers create detailed layouts with annotations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Model Maker
Urban Designer
An Urban Designer focuses on the design and management of public spaces in urban environments. This course is useful in visualizing urban designs in three dimensions. By covering site modeling from surveyor's documents, the course helps create realistic representations of planning areas. The ability to apply textures and customize display modes can be useful for presenting urban design concepts. This course will allow the designer to create detailed layouts with annotations. The rendering and diagramming skills taught in this course can also be useful for urban designers to show off concepts to clients.
See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Designer
Landscape Architect
A Landscape Architect plans and designs outdoor spaces. This course is useful in creating 3D models of landscape designs. The course will provide the skills needed to represent terrain, vegetation, and other landscape elements accurately. Learning to model sites from surveyor's documents is particularly relevant. The ability to apply textures and customize display modes allows for effective presentation of landscape designs. A landscape architect will find that this course helps in creating detailed layouts with annotations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Landscape Architect
Furniture Designer
A Furniture Designer creates and develops designs for furniture. This course helps build skills in 3D modeling, which is essential for visualizing and prototyping furniture designs. The course covers commands to generate massing, which provides the skills needed to translate design ideas into detailed 3D models. Learning to apply textures and customize display modes is crucial for creating realistic renderings. The course helps the Furniture Designer create detailed layouts with annotations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Furniture Designer
Set Designer
A Set Designer creates the scenery for theater, film, and television productions. With this course you can learn to build detailed 3D models of set designs. The ability to quickly generate massing models and apply textures is valuable. The course emphasis on creating realistic images and animations is particularly useful for visualizing the final set. This course helps in creating detailed layouts with annotations, which the set designer can then use to present designs to directors and producers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Set Designer
Game Environment Artist
A Game Environment Artist builds the 3D environments in which video games take place. This course is useful in learning to create detailed 3D models of game environments. The course covers commands to generate both simple and advanced geometry. By learning about texture mapping and customizing display modes, you will be able to export diagrams of your project. This course would be useful to animation and rendering, which may be useful for in-game cutscenes. This course can help in creating detailed layouts with annotations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Game Environment Artist
Exhibition Planner
An Exhibition Planner is in charge of planning exhibitions. This course may be useful for creating 3D models to show off design concepts. The course may help with texturing and customizing display modes allow for effective presentation of design concepts. The course can help in creating realistic renderings and animations. This course will allow Exhibition Planners to create detailed layouts with annotations and present them to clients.
See salaries and explore the career path for Exhibition Planner
Exhibition Designer
An Exhibition Designer creates engaging and informative displays for museums, galleries, and trade shows. This course may be useful in developing 3D models of exhibit spaces and components. Learning about texturing and customizing display modes allows for effective presentation of design concepts. The course can also help in creating realistic renderings and animations, useful for visualizing the final exhibition. The skills in this course will allow the designer to create detailed layouts with annotations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Exhibition Designer
Civil Engineer
A Civil Engineer designs, constructs, supervises, and maintains large construction projects and systems, including roads, buildings, airports, tunnels, dams, bridges, and systems for water supply and sewage treatment. This course may be useful in creating 3D models of structures. The course covers commands to generate massing, which provides the skills needed to translate initial drawings and concepts into detailed 3D models. Learning to model sites from surveyor's documents may be particularly relevant. This course may be useful to Civil Engineers because it helps in creating detailed layouts with annotations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Civil Engineer
Industrial Designer
An Industrial Designer focuses on the design and development of manufactured products. This course may be useful in developing 3D models of product designs. The course covers essential commands for modeling complex geometry, which is essential for product prototyping. The texturing and rendering skills taught in the course allow for the creation of compelling product visualizations. The course helps the industrial designer create detailed layouts with annotations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Industrial Designer
Drafter
A Drafter prepares technical drawings and plans used by production and construction workers. This course may be useful in learning to create 3D models of structures. The course covers commands to generate massing, which provides the skills needed to translate initial drawings and concepts into detailed 3D models. Learning to apply textures and customize display modes is crucial for creating realistic renderings. Drafters will find that the course is useful in creating detailed layouts with annotations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Drafter
Urban Planner
An Urban Planner develops plans and programs for land use. This course may be useful for visualizing urban designs in three dimensions. By covering site modeling from surveyor's documents, the course helps create realistic representations of planning areas. The ability to apply textures and customize display modes can be useful for presenting urban design concepts. The course will allow the designer to create detailed layouts with annotations. The rendering and diagramming skills taught in this course can also be useful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner
Product Designer
A Product Designer develops the form and function of manufactured goods. This course may be useful in learning to create 3D models of product prototypes. The course covers essential commands for modeling complex geometry. The texturing and rendering skills taught allow for the creation of compelling product visualizations. Being able to generate realistic images could be useful for marketing and presentations. This course helps product designers create detailed layouts with annotations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Designer

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in COMPLETE RHINO 3D (v8) + D5 base for Architects & Designers.
Cover image
Putting Knowledge to Work
Save
Comprehensive guide to using V-Ray, a popular rendering plugin for Rhino, to create photorealistic images and animations. It covers topics such as lighting, materials, textures, and camera settings. While the course touches on rendering with a free software, V-Ray offers more advanced features and control. This book valuable resource for architects and designers who want to create professional-quality visualizations of their Rhino models.
Putting Knowledge to Work
Paperback
Check
Putting Knowledge to Work
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The NURBS Book
Save
Provides a comprehensive understanding of NURBS (Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines), the mathematical representation at the core of Rhino's modeling engine. It delves into the theory and implementation of NURBS curves and surfaces. Understanding NURBS will allow you to better control and predict the behavior of your models. While not required for basic modeling, it's invaluable for advanced users seeking to optimize their workflow and create complex geometries.
The NURBS Book (Monographs in Visual Communication)
Paperback
$$$
The NURBS Book (Monographs in Visual Communication)
Kindle Edition
$$$

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Rating
4.7 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Effort
12 total hours
Via
Udemy
Instructor
jonathan Alotto
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Covers 130 commands, providing a solid toolbox for generating both simple and advanced massing, which is essential for architectural design
Includes workflow consolidation courses at the end of each chapter, enriching shortcut skills and efficiency in using the software, which saves modeling time
Demonstrates how to get the most out of 3D models for diagrams by manipulating Rhino Display Modes, which is useful for presentations and design communication
Uses Rhino 8 for PC, but is also accessible to Mac users and PC users with lower Rhino versions, as more than 90% of the commands are the same
Teaches how to create realistic images and animations using a free rendering software synchronized with Rhino, which is valuable for design visualization
The rendering software presented in Chapter 9 is not compatible for Mac users, which may limit the experience for some learners
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