Efficiently import house model into Unity

Your goal is to import a house model from Google SketchUp, edit it in Cinema 4D, and then use the finished model in Unity. This guide will walk you through the process step by step, focusing on efficient methods to make the model usable in Unity as quickly as possible.

Main insights

• Using Google SketchUp for model creation
• Efficient editing in Cinema 4D
• Exporting the model in FBX format
• Importing and arranging the model in Unity

Step-by-step guide

First, select a house model from the Google SketchUp Warehouse. Open the Google SketchUp page and search for model options. You can simply type "SketchUp Warehouse" in the search box. Choose a modern house that appeals to you, ideally with some interior to have more detail.

After selecting the model, click the download button and choose the latest SketchUp version (e.g., 2015). This version is optimal as it can be easily opened in Cinema 4D, making further editing easier for you.

Once the download is complete, open Cinema 4D. Select the "File" option and load the downloaded file. You can disable anything you don't need and then click "OK." The model should now appear in your Cinema 4D environment.

It is important to clean up the workspace in Cinema 4D to maintain clarity. Remove all unnecessary elements like plants and grass so you can fully focus on the house.

Rename the various roof parts in your model to recognize them later in Unity. For example, you can call them "Large Roof" and "Small Roof." These named elements are helpful when working with materials and objects in Unity later on.

Now you need to ensure that all unused materials are deleted to avoid unnecessarily bloating the FBX file. You can do this by going to "Function" and then "Delete Unused Materials."

Save the scene in Cinema 4D as an FBX file. You can name it "modern house," for example, and keep all the presets. This file will be needed to import the model into Unity later.

Switch back to Unity and import the saved FBX model into your project. Simply drag the FBX file into the project view to integrate it into the scene.

Now you can arrange the house model in your Unity scene. Set the transform values to zero and scale it to the desired size. Minor adjustments are advisable to set the right perspective and position in the game.

An important step is checking your camera position. Make sure the camera is positioned so that the model is visible in the desired field of view. Often, rotating the model can be helpful to achieve the best view.

Before starting with the game, it is advisable to make some final adjustments to the model and the camera movement. In the next step, you will learn how to animate the camera within Unity to allow smooth movements through the model.

Summary - 360° Architecture Views with Unity and Cinema 4D: Importing and Exporting House Models

This guide has shown you how to import a house model from Google SketchUp, edit it in Cinema 4D, and finally use it in Unity. Through a clear, structured process, you can work efficiently and save time.