Ireland in 3D: First Steps

Our trip to Ireland has begun. Come on, join us!

Either on a travel or at a construction place, we need some tools. Artist's main tool is 3Ds max. Of course, we won't be able to do without V-Ray and PhotoShop. So, we are equipped. Now, where are we heading for?

After some arguments it was decided that the first destination and the central piece should be an awesome animation reel, Ireland from Dubai World being the featured star. Yeah, that simple... Any other ideas?

Anyway, let me boast some of the first results. As the initial step is always modeling, we've set on it. Everyone's got a building to create in 3D and here's what we already have:
This is only one of up to 25 builings, some of which are very much alike thought (7-8 types). We took the shots from different sides to let you see how it looks like now. The next step for this one will be texturing. And here's where the first challenge comes: the building should have thatch roof and the artist needs to make it look real. What would be the ways out?

I'm sure, we'll see what our artists came up with very soon. Of course, I'm looking forward to seeing some of your ideas here, either as to the technical issues like modeling, texturing and lighting or as to what you'd like to see as the final result.

Follow us on the way to Ireland!