Transitioning from SketchUp to Lumion can unlock a faster, more intuitive visualization workflow — but only if your model is optimized for real-time rendering.
This guide offers actionable tips to streamline your modeling process in SketchUp and achieve professional-quality renders in Lumion.

Why SketchUp + Lumion Is a Powerful Combo

• SketchUp offers fast, flexible 3D modeling — perfect for massing, interiors, and schematic design.

• Lumion provides real-time rendering with rich environments, lighting presets, and animation tools.

Combined, they help architects and CG artists create immersive visuals without long render times.

1. Organize Your SketchUp Model for Success

• Group and Component Structure: Always model in groups/components to avoid merging geometry.

• Layer (Tag) Management: Use tags to separate building elements (walls, glass, vegetation…).

• Clean Geometry: Delete hidden lines, stray edges, and unnecessary faces.

• Set North & Shadows: Match true north to prepare for daylight accuracy in Lumion.

2. Prepare Materials Smartly

• Name materials clearly in SketchUp

• Use unique materials for each element — don’t reuse the same “Default” too often

• Avoid scaling textures inside SketchUp; use Lumion’s built-in material tools instead

3. Export and Import Correctly

• Export as .SKP or .DAE via Lumion LiveSync

• Use LiveSync plugin for real-time preview and easier adjustments

• Reimport via “Save & Reload” to maintain material assignments

4. Improve Realism in Lumion

• Replace placeholder textures with Lumion’s PBR materials

• Add Lumion landscape context: grass, terrain, trees, sky

• Use Real Sky, Sun, and Reflection controls to boost realism

• Populate scenes with people, vehicles, and animated elements

5. Bonus Tips for Rendering Quality

• Use Orthographic View in Lumion for diagrams

• Set up camera paths for cinematic animation

• Adjust depth of field and global illumination

• Export in 4K or UHD for client presentations

Visual Ennode Workflow

At Visual Ennode, our team follows this pipeline:

1. SketchUp concept modeling

2. Lumion scene setup + animation

3. Photoshop post-production

4. Optional: Unreal Engine for interactive experience

See our portfolio for examples of SketchUp + Lumion visuals.