SkyBox: My Introduction to 3D Modeling and Concept Art

In 2017, I took on a school project that would unexpectedly become one of my first forays into the world of 3D modeling and concept art. This project didn’t come with rigid guidelines or a predetermined subject—it was freeform, allowing each student to bring a unique vision to life. It was the perfect opportunity to experiment, and I found myself captivated by the idea of creating something modern and architectural.

Discovering 3D with Trimble Sketchup

For this project, I was introduced to Trimble Sketchup, a 3D modeling program that would quickly become my go-to tool for conceptual design. My assignment was to design a building and then bring it to life not just on a screen but as a physical model through laser-cut plywood. The concept I envisioned was a modern, minimalist structure that I named “SkyBox.” This design was inspired by contemporary architectural trends, focusing on clean lines, geometric forms, and an open, airy aesthetic.

Creating SkyBox in Sketchup was both challenging and exhilarating. The software allowed me to build my design layer by layer, experimenting with shapes and angles until I achieved the exact look I had in mind. Working in 3D forced me to think about space and form in new ways, considering how each angle and surface would come together to create a cohesive structure.

Bringing SkyBox to Life: From Digital to Physical

Once the digital model was complete, the next step was to transfer the design from Sketchup to plywood. This is where the project shifted from purely digital work to a hands-on building experience. I exported the model as flat, laser-ready components, which were carefully cut into individual pieces that would form the final model.

Assembling these laser-cut pieces was like putting together a three-dimensional puzzle. Each piece had to be glued precisely, fitting together to recreate the clean lines and minimalist geometry of the original design. Watching SkyBox take shape in my hands was incredibly satisfying—it was no longer just an idea or a digital concept but a tangible, small-scale representation of a building.

Lessons from the SkyBox Project

SkyBox was my first project that blended digital modeling with physical construction, and it opened my eyes to the possibilities within 3D art and design. It taught me the importance of attention to detail, especially when translating a digital model into a physical form. I learned to anticipate structural considerations even in concept art, from the design phase to assembly.

This experience was foundational, shaping my future approach to creative projects. It’s also where I discovered the thrill of taking something from an initial sketch to a digital model, then turning it into a physical object that I could see and hold. This combination of digital and physical creation continues to inspire me in my work.

SkyBox was more than just a school project; it was the start of my journey into 3D art and design, blending creative vision with technical skills. This project not only sparked my interest in concept art but also laid the groundwork for future projects in digital modeling and design.