Based in Copenhagen, Denmark, studio Nor3d specializes in telling stories built around architecture and creating unique visualizations for each project, along with engaging design, fashion, and art. They use still images, animations, virtual reality, or dynamic images to craft a unique story for each project. Nor3d was nominated for the 2024 CGarchitect 3D Awards in the 'Best Commissioned Image' category with their outstanding project 'Postbyen,' reflecting their commitment to excellence and innovation in the field of architectural visualization.
As a top cloud rendering service provider and leading render farm in the industry, Fox Renderfarm sponsored this challenge and had the pleasure of interviewing the Nor3d team. Let's step into the world of Nor3d, where architecture and art blend perfectly and imagination knows no bounds.
Fox Renderfarm: Hi Mantas! Thank you so much for accepting our interview! Could you please introduce yourself to our readers?
Mantas: Hej! First of all, thank you for having me—it’s an honor to share my journey with your readers. I’m Mantas Vilkelis, founder of NOR3D, a multidisciplinary creative studio that brings architecture to life through 3D visualization, storytelling, animations, photography, and immersive technologies.
Our mission is to help clients and stakeholders step into the heart of unbuilt, innovative designs, making the future feel tangible today.
Fox Renderfarm: Congratulations on being nominated for the 'Best-commissioned Image' category in the CGArchitect 3D Awards! How do you feel about it?
Mantas: Thank you very much. It’s an honor, to say the least. Being recognized among the best in the industry feels both humbling and motivating.
Best-commissioned Image © Studio Nor3d
Fox Renderfarm: Could you give us a brief overview of the project that your team brought to the 2024 CGArchitect 3D Awards? What were the key elements that your team wanted to highlight?
Mantas: In this project, we wanted to take a different approach. Instead of making the building the hero of the scene, we focused on how people experience the architecture in everyday life—whether it’s commuting, catching a train, or simply passing by. Architecture isn’t just a standalone object; it’s woven into people’s daily lives. By shifting the perspective, we sought to highlight how the design becomes part of these familiar and meaningful moments.
Fox Renderfarm: What were the key milestones and decision points in the design process for this project?
Mantas: Our first major milestone was defining the image’s direction. We started by deeply understanding the narrative behind the design and its impact on the cityscape. From there, we focused on crafting the right composition, capturing the perfect moment, and establishing the desired mood. The client’s full support throughout the process provided a strong foundation for the project.
Fox Renderfarm: What innovative techniques or technologies did your team employ in this project that set it apart from others? Can you tell us about the pipeline as well?
Mantas: We have used pretty standard approach of making a strong photographic base. In order to understand the area, feeling and uniqueness to the place/ project, we spent extra time on analysing surroundings. After first step then was just adding the right amount of detail to the image in order to match the Copenhagen morning commuting vibe.
Fox Renderfarm: What was your team’s strategy for choosing the camera angle and perspective to best showcase the project?
Mantas: We used extensive sessions within the whole team, going one by one image from site visit and discussing pros / cons of each to create a complete set.
Fox Renderfarm: How long did it take your team to complete this piece from concept to final render, and which part was the most time-consuming part? Why?
Mantas: This image took approximately three days to complete. Fortunately, most of the buildings were already modeled from earlier stages of the project, which included 16 images in total. The most time-consuming part was ensuring the scene’s overall composition and lighting perfectly matched the intended atmosphere.
Fox Renderfarm: How many team members were involved in this project, and how did you divide the workload among the team members to ensure efficient production?
Mantas: Our entire team of four contributed to this project. The workload was divided into key areas: 3D modeling and texturing, site photography, and seamlessly combining these elements into the final image. This division allowed us to work efficiently while leveraging each member’s strengths
Fox Renderfarm: What are some of the standout projects your team has worked on, and which one are you the most proud of?
Mantas: It is difficult to say as each project is unique and challenges in different ways. A set of small images explaining the tiny living concept could be in a mix together with videos.
© Studio Nor3d
Fox Renderfarm: Have you had any experience with Fox Renderfarm's cloud rendering services in the past? If you have, what is your opinion of our cloud rendering offerings?
Mantas: We have not yet experienced to be honest but currently looking into it.
Fox Renderfarm: Lastly, what advice would you offer to aspiring 3D artists who want to break into the industry or participate in similar awards?
Mantas: To all aspiring 3D artists: don’t let shyness hold you back. Step out of your comfort zone, ask questions, start conversations, and engage in meaningful discussions.
Collaboration is a powerful tool—it’s where new ideas, skills, and approaches come to life. In my experience, teamwork often leads to the most inspiring and impactful results.
Thanks again to Mantas for accepting our interview! Wishing new heights in your professional career!!
Nor3d Studio’s social media:
- Behance: https://www.behance.net/nor3d
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nor3d
- Web: https://www.nor3d.com/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nor3d
