3D model of a retro-futuristic nuclear house, featuring stylized architecture with both opaque and transparent elements. This independent project was based on my original sketch and reflects my interest in retro-futuristic design. Green nuclear canisters and clean, simple shapes give the model a unique, slightly stylized look.
Nuclear Futuristic House – 3D Modeling and Texturing
Software Used: Autodesk Maya, Adobe Substance 3D Painter, Adobe Illustrator
Project Type: Personal 3D Modeling and Presentation Design
This 3D modeling project features a small retro-futuristic house designed with inspiration from 1950s architecture and atomic-age themes. I created the model in Autodesk Maya, textured it using Adobe Substance 3D Painter, and used Adobe Illustrator to design the presentation layout and custom nuclear symbol.
This was the first time I worked with transparent materials like glass in a 3D model. At first, I tried using one UV map for the entire model, but that caused issues when applying textures to the glass. I solved the problem by separating the model into two UV sets, one for solid parts and one for transparent parts. This allowed me to texture each group correctly.
To give the house a retro feel, I used soft pastel colors like pink and blue. Bright green tubes were added outside the house with nuclear symbols to suggest a future where small homes rely on powerful energy sources. The shape of the house is simple but angled, which adds visual interest while keeping the design balanced. Before modeling, I sketched the concept by hand and studied mid-century home styles to build a look that felt both familiar and futuristic.
Since this was a personal project, I set my own goals and direction. After receiving feedback, I expanded the presentation by creating a graphic layout card that shows key parts of the model and explains how they connect to a larger story. I also added lighting effects to areas that would naturally glow, such as the outdoor lamp and the nuclear tanks. I checked that all textures were sharp and clean and that the layout supported the overall design.
This project shows my ability to:
- Model and texture detailed objects in Maya and Substance Painter
- Work with transparent materials and manage UV maps
- Use lighting and color to support a theme
- Build a design from sketch to final model with a clear concept
- Create presentation materials that support storytelling
The Nuclear Futuristic House is a strong example of my 3D modeling, problem-solving, and visual storytelling skills in a personal, self-guided project.