by Darlene A. Brady

When Charles Gaushell, AIA first used DataCAD in 1989 to develop a 3D model of the Memphis, Tennessee Ronald McDonald House, he learned how powerful the computer could be as a design tool. Because the CAD program was easy to use and enhanced the ability to envision the final project, he also realized that 3D modeling can be an important presentation tool.

These understandings drew him to the field of architectural illustration. Because many firms cannot develop digital expertise in house, Charles Gaushell and Scott Carter started Paradigm Productions, LLC in 1992 to fill this need. The Memphis firm specializes in 3D computer graphics, animation, and multimedia services.

Initially, Paradigm completed renderings that were started by an architecture firm, or they created renderings from scratch. Their work has now expanded to include medical visualization, exhibit design, television, video production, legal reenactments, and interactive multimedia markets.

From Architecture to Illustration

Both partners of Paradigm Productions come from architectural backgrounds. Carter has a bachelor's in architecture from the University of Arkansas. Gaushell is a registered architect with a bachelor's degree in architecture and a minor in finance from Louisiana Tech University.

They find that these backgrounds give them a fuller understanding of the potential of the medium than would a traditional background in animation. Working within a virtual 3D computer world is a natural extension of architectural design.

The proposed expansion of the 2nd Presbyterian Church in Memphis, Tennessee was designed by The Crump Firm, also of Memphis. Image: Paradigm Productions Prototype studies for the Flagstar Bank, by Archimania Architects, Memphis, were rendered in LightWave. Image: Paradigm Productions   Click on thumbnail images to view full-size pictures.