11 Online Courses For Learning Architectural Visualization

Bring architectural and interior designs to life by learning the best ArchViz software with expert-led courses

ArchViz, also known as architectural visualization or rendering, allows you to turn technical plans and drawings into stunning, 3D art environments. The practice blends building design with CGI, leading to a whole host of career opportunities in 3D animation, gaming, VR and AR, traditional architecture studios, real estate, and of course personal projects where you bring your dream spaces to life.

But how do you get started in this relatively new industry? Learning key software like Blender, 3ds Max, Unreal Engine, V-Ray, and more will lay a strong foundation. That’s why we’ve put together 11 online ArchViz courses for you to explore and choose the right starting point for your style and goals.

1. Introduction to Architectural Drawing in AutoCAD, a course by Isabel Martínez

Just getting started? AutoCAD and architecture have gone hand in hand ever since the first version of this legendary software was released in 1982.

In this introduction to architectural drawing course, architect Isabel Martínez (@isabelmabascal) will show you the basic tools you’ll need to design architectural projects in AutoCAD. Get familiar with the interface, draw out your first plans, and turn them into elevations and axonometric perspectives, so you can get to grips with the basics of presenting your work.

2. 3D Architectural Design and Modeling with Revit, a course by Arturo Bustíos Casanova

Having worked on residential projects, restaurants, and even airports, Arturo Bustios (@arturo_bustiosc) is an architect specialized in BIM (Building Information Modeling) methodology. He explains that Revit is all you need to get started presenting projects in a visually appealing way.

In this course, you will learn how to design and model an orthogonal house in Revit, and get to grips with the different steps involved in creating a 3D architectural project, from using software to creating slides to present to your client, as well as modeling all of the elements of your house.

3. Architectural Visualization with V-Ray Next for SketchUp, a course by María Alarcón

SketchUp is a popular and useful tool for laying out your spaces, but when you want to take the visuals to the next level, V-Ray will make all the difference.

In this course, architect María Alarcón (@mariaalarcon_) will teach you how to render an architectural model in SketchUp using V-Ray Next. You will see how to use and edit V-Ray materials, learn how to position the camera and create scenes, and discover techniques for lighting an interior room with artificial or natural light.

4. Introduction to Unreal Engine 4 for Architectural Rendering, a course by Miguel Albo

Originally built as a real-time rendering engine for video game development, Unreal Engine has become a leading ArchViz program, thanks to its ease of use, compatibility with architecture software, and photorealism.

In this this four-course Domestika Basics package, you’ll learn to create an interior scene from scratch with Unreal Engine 4. Miguel Albo (@miguel_albo) will also guide you in making a final 3D version of your scene, using advanced techniques to create lighting and materials that achieve a realistic result and add depth.

5. Visual Storytelling for 3D ArchViz, a course by Sonny Holmberg

Architectural visualizations are an opportunity to set the atmosphere and mood of your creation. Through his studio Depth Per Image in Copenhagen, Sonny Holmberg (@sonnyholmberg) has created unique storytelling experiences with his designs.

In this course, get an in-depth walkthrough of how to use powerful ArchViz software, 3ds Max. Sonny guides you step-by-step through the design process to create a compelling design with the different software plug-ins.

6. Rendering and Digital Collage for Architectural Displays, a course by Architecture on Paper

Brenda Roqueta and Alba Estévez, founders of Architecture on Paper (@architectureonpaper), know how to turn early designs into polished sketches that show stakeholders how magical a finished space will be.

In this course, you will delve into ArchViz with 3ds Max and Photoshop. Import a 3D model, then learn how to bring your unique style and design awareness using composition, the camera, material choices, lighting, textures, and more.

7. Architectural Models with Rhino 3D and V-Ray, a course by Saul Kim

Architectural designer Saul Kim (@saulkim) specializes in creating designs that explore new architectural possibilities. Ready to dive into the world of future design thinking for yourself?

In this course, Saul teaches you his design process to make playful and unique architectural spaces using Rhino 3D and V-Ray. You’ll start by designing an object and creating a paper model for it. Then, you’ll transform it into a digital rendering to create experimental architecture.

8. Interior ArchViz: Create Surreal 3D Designs with Blender, a course by Camille Boldt

Architectural visualization has the ability to create realistic compositions that have paved the way for some of the most impressive buildings in the world. However, when coupled with elements of surrealism, they have the power to create designs that could only exist in our dreams.

In this course, Designer Camille Boldt (@camilleboldt) gives you a complete walkthrough of Blender for interior ArchViz. Learn how to create striking compositions of interior spaces, and create a pastel-colored dreamland to inspire your audience.

9. Matte Painting Techniques for ArchViz, a course by Fran Mateos

Matte painting is the art of creating scenes and settings by layering images. For architect and ArchViz expert Fran Mateos (@fran_drama), this technique enables him to showcase the full potential of yet-to-be-constructed projects.

In this course, you’ll learn how to use Photoshop to enhance architectural models. Using matte painting techniques, learn to achieve the perfect lighting and scale, as well as how to layer your renders with fine details that leave viewers thinking they're real.

10. Photorealism for Interior Spaces with Lumion, a course by Angular Lab

Architects Emely Córdova and Charles Infante are the cofounders of the ArchViz studio Angular Lab (@angularlab), and use rendering engine Lumion to produce photorealistic images of interiors.

In this course, Angular Lab teaches you the basics of photorealism for interior design using Lumion with SketchUp. They teach you how to infuse your space with atmosphere, as well as apply textures and materials, and finish with breath-taking effects.

11. Home Extension Design: Transform a Living Space, a course by nimtim architects

Tim O’Callaghan and Nimi Attanayake, founders of Nimtim Architects (@nimtim), believe in creating sustainable and playful designs that reflect the personality of those who live in them. If you’re looking to visualize a project for your own home, this course will be a huge boost!

In this course you’ll use AutoCAD and SketchUp to plan a new space in your home and design a brief that can be shared. Discover how to transform an existing space by identifying its strengths and translating its new design in a 3D visualization.

English version by @eloiseedgington. Updated by @lauren_duplessis.

Explore the art of building design with these resources

1. Get inspired by these iconic buildings from around the world.

2. Get pro tips from this free ArchViz tutorial to deepen your understanding.

3. Completely new to architecture? Try these 10 online courses for beginners to learn the basics.