Architects use various techniques of architectural representation to convey light in their designs, such as:
1. Sketching and Drawing: Architects use hand-rendered sketches and drawing to convey the quality and direction of light in their designs. This technique can effectively communicate the play of light and shadow on the building's surfaces.
2. Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Software: Using advanced software like SketchUp, Autodesk, etc., architects can create 3D models of the building that can be manipulated to show how light interacts with the space. They can also create different light scenarios, using various lighting systems, to evaluate the effects of different lighting solutions.
3. Physical Models: Scale models of buildings can be created to demonstrate how light affects the design, and models can be lit from different angles to show how shadows will form on the structure.
4. Renderings: Architects use computer-generated renderings to create realistic images of how the building will look once built with different lighting scenarios. This helps clients visualize the effect of lighting on different materials and textures.
5. Material Mock-ups: To evaluate the effect of light on different materials and textures, architects create material mock-ups of the main building components. Testing different materials can help them determine which materials will better reflect light, which will absorb it, and how important surface textures can be.
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