Nando Cabán–Méndez, SEGD » 3D Design and Modeling

Donor Recognition: Lance Armstrong Foundation

Nando — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 02:41:07 +0000

LiveStrong, the Lance Armstrong Foundation, contracted fd2s to create an Environmental Graphics package to recognize employees, volunteers, and donors throughout their new headquarters in Austin, TX. One of my assignments consisted in creating the donor recognition signage for both the interior and entrance to the main boardroom.
I used SketchUp for the concept development for a number of reasons: I think it’s very cost-effective; that is, once a model is made, it’s relatively easy to explore variations in form, materials, and colors. (Click on images for larger versions)

Another reason is I think three-dimensional images communicate better to the layman the intricacies of complex objects. Yet another reason is that, ultimately, three-dimensional models offer all the information needed for accurate orthographical views.

Even after some value-engineering, the similarity between the concept and the finished product is striking. Usually exceeding the clients expectations.

These simple drawings were created after the boardroom entrance concept. At this point, we didn’t feel a 3D model was necessary, as the dimensionality of the concept had been established.

The finished donor recognition sign.

I was also involved in the early creation of design concepts for the main entry sign. Here are some of my sketches:

Wayfinding: City of Marshall

Nando — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 23:29:54 +0000

My employer at the time,fd2s, was hired by the city of Marshall, Texas to develop a wayfinding strategy and design. I was involved in the initial concept phase, and responded to the design brief with a conservative post and panel design. The simplicity of the design is meant to both allow the content to stand out, as well as suggest a warm sense of handcraft. (Click on images for larger, more detail)

We conceived a flexible design, as this concept will likely be used in many different configurations and scales as the needs and location for the signs change.

The image above illustrates some of the many possible sign configurations. The model below suggests the use of one configuration at an intersection.

The “double twin bracket” theme was carried over throughout the system.

Part of the Marshall revitalization plan calls for the creation of an entertainment district. To direct traffic, and serve as a beacon to drivers on nearby I-20, we proposed the use of searchlights as well as custom overpass signage and lighting. It was my job to illustrate these concepts. Below you can see the original daytime photos on the left, and the photomontages for the concepts. (Click on images for larger, more detail)

Contact me (links on the right) to discuss how I can help your organization with my versatile skill set, creating a complete wayfinding solution.

3D Presentation: Polus Center

Nando — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 18:40:22 +0000

SketchUp models done as part of the Design Development for Polus Center, a mixed-use developmnet in Braşov, Romania. Concepts by the fd2s team.

This information kiosk incorporates a vertical LED display on two sides.

One of two concepts for the main exterior identification:

Detail of concept 1

The second of two concepts for the main exterior identification:

Detail of concept 2