Calvin, I think those are great models but I am not as enthusiastic about the lighting as the other reviewers. For one thing I would expect soemr refelction on the floor from the recessed ceiling lights unless it is carpeted.Next I would turn on that big handging light over the Buddha and make sure its color temp was quite warm to contrast with the cold daylight. I would also brighten the hallway. My impression that the default settings many people use results in interiors that are way too dark.
I feel better about the lighting in the blue room, but it might be useful to think less like an architect and more like an interior designer. The room crys out to be accessorized. Even if a modern simplicity is the goal you should consider adding elements like some plants to create foreground framing which will add more depth to the picture. Less is more except in those cases where more is more. This could be one of those cases. put some plates dishes and flowers on the table.
Someone said they were afraid of distracting the viewer. For me, I want to distract the viewer and lead the viewer to an exciting visual experience. Zen gardens are the ultimate in simplicity, but they are also powerful and dynamic in leading the viewer to predefined experiences.
All said and done, I like both renders, but they could be more exciting. I can just hear the clock ticking in an empty space.Yo have the modeling and rendering aced. To go higher, I would tackle lighting, depth and a touch of drama.
