Transforming simple architectural spaces into emotionally resonant visual experiences requires more than technical mastery—it demands an artistic sensibility and a passion for storytelling. In this making-of feature, veteran 3D artist Diego Drews takes us behind the scenes of "Cabin", a personal study project designed to refine his skills in composition, texturing, and lighting. The result is a beautifully lit, cozy interior that radiates warmth and serenity. Join us as we explore Diego's creative workflow and uncover the techniques that brought this atmospheric scene to life!
About me.
Hello 3d community,
My name is Diego Drews, and I am a designer specializing in 3D renderings and animations, based in Portugal. With over 20 years of experience, I have been involved in major projects and collaborated with companies in architecture, interior design, virtual reality, and product design. My goal as a 3D designer is to achieve the highest level of realism in every project, with a strong focus on textures, lighting, modeling, and excellent finishing details.
About The Project.
This project was conceived as a personal study, designed to refine my skills in lighting, texturing, and composition—while most importantly, nurturing my creativity. The goal was to transform a modest cabin into a visually captivating and emotionally inviting space. Drawing inspiration from architectural photography and the work of fellow designers, I aimed to create a scene that feels both intimate and beautifully crafted, with every detail contributing to a warm and cohesive atmosphere.
Software used.
For the creation of the static images and animation, I relied on 3ds Max for modeling and scene assembly, paired with Corona Renderer for its exceptional ability to deliver photorealistic results. This powerful combination allowed for both creative flexibility and technical precision throughout the entire CGI production process.
3D Assets.
At the outset of the project, I gathered a curated selection of reference images to guide the creative direction and establish a cohesive visual language. Many of the scene’s elements were sourced from the Quixel Megascans library for their high-quality detail and realism. However, to better suit the aesthetic and scale of the interior, I chose to remodel several key assets—including the armchairs and coffee tables—adding a personal touch and ensuring full control over form and finish.
Lighting.
To achieve a warm and natural atmosphere, I utilized an HDRI map as the primary light source, replicating realistic daylight conditions. To complement this and enhance the overall light bounce within the space, I strategically placed rectangle lights behind the windows. This combination helped create soft shadows, balanced illumination, and a welcoming mood throughout the interior.
Post-Production.
To preserve visual consistency between the still images and the animation, I deliberately avoided any external post-production. Instead, all final adjustments—such as exposure, contrast, and color balance—were handled directly within the rendering engine using Tone Mapping. This approach ensured maximum fidelity and authenticity across all outputs, showcasing the raw quality of the render straight from the frame buffer.
I’d like to extend my sincere thanks to Rebus Render Farm for the opportunity to share this project. For more updates, behind-the-scenes content, and future works, feel free to connect with me through the links below!
Thank you for reading!
Diego Drews.
About the artist
Diego Drews is a Portugal-based 3D designer with over 20 years of experience in architectural visualization, product design, interior design, and virtual reality. His work is driven by a relentless pursuit of photorealism and artistic integrity. Whether working on client projects or personal explorations, Diego consistently delivers immersive visuals that capture both the structure and soul of a space.
