Thanks guys

Yup Podium has come a far way since December last year, the above were done with the new version 1.5 beta (available to all registered users) which has many new features like clipmapping (alpha maps), bump mapping, scripting, better light and sun control, recognition of front faces even if they are not all facing out etc (there are more but thats all I can remember) and it's free to anyone that owns the basic version.

As mentioned the above renders where done in 1 to 4 minutes on average, only Vivid logo was added, so these are all RAW renders.

Hopefully very soon a new texture tool and figure creator will be available (my software, independant of Podium, but within the Sketchup program) that will make mapping odd shapes a breeze as well as introducing mid size poly people into models that can be textured in detail for use in foreground requirements.
I will keep you posted.

All texturing and lighting was done in Sketchup, render times varied from 1 to 4 minutes. Rendered with the new version 1.5.

I am putting together a texture and lighting library as well as a new texturing process for registered Podium users, here are a few samples of what I have so far. The model is formed with Zbrush, imported into SU and rendered in Podium.

If I'm not mistaken there a modelling challenge a few months ago for garage doors (I think, as I submitted one that didn't do any cool things) I am not sure where they are, but Krisidious may know.

I am not sure who knows who in the world of CG, however I am sure that the 'code guy' at Kerky knows the 'code guy' at Podium, so they should talk as Podium has just overcome the face thing, without reversing faces the render engine will render the front face regardless which way it faces.
I am sure it's a geeky code thing...but it makes life so much easier.
KT is a cool looking app...I will wait for new upgrade and give it a whirl.

I was refering to your ground textures, they look like the new 'Crysis' direct x 10 engine style. Age of Empires 4 (if it ever gets made)

Those are amazing, excellent work.

As Eeva asked I too would like to know how you got the wall and ground plane to blend so well.
As for the procedural planes, did you make them yourself? are they sourced? if yes, would you mind sharing a link to them?