I came across this older thread as I find myself at a crossroads like others and thought it might be worth continuing the discussion. As a landscape architect our digital 3D workflow has always been a hybrid as with other things in our occupation. It makes sense as we regularly interface with other disciplines. This list from a few years back shows the diversity of programs that are useful to learn for the more digitally inclined: https://land8.com/landscape-design-software-which-is-best/.
Autodesk Civil 3D has become core to our plan and CD production and in ways has helped ease the terrain/ surface creation that is a challenge in all 3d modelling software. Every project starts with at least some basic AutoCAD linework and I don't see that changing. As a landscape architect my criteria is fast creation of simple site developments (walls, steps, patios, boulders); accurate terrain and grading representation and light manipulation; and straightforward rendering with good vegetation representation. Our role in the workflow (and generally on a project) is typically to mesh existing topo, design proposed topo, integrate a Revit model from the architect and add simplistic site elements and vegetation.
Anyway, I use SketchUp pretty intensely about ten years ago and for a number of reasons moved away from 3D modelling. I now have opportunity to get back into it and want to make sure I am spending my limited time efficiently in learning the right software to integrate into my workflow. Here are the options I am exploring:
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AutoCAD > SketchUp > Lumion - This is the workflow I am most familiar with and efficient in. My main issue is the energy around SketchUp seems to be waning and SU has limitations with big models, still has issues with any curved components and surfaces, has a hard time accepting big surfaces from topo DEMs, etc.
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AutoCAD > Rhino > Lumion? - I've played with Rhino in the past and it seems very powerful especially for more diagrammatic modeling. People who use it seeem to love it. Is it worth spending the time learning it as an LA? I've always been put off by an inability to manipulate meshes and a lack of vegetation library. I've also regularly been underwhelmed by rendered outputs but maybe using Lumion to render will help given it's extensive library
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AutoCAD > 3DS Max (Maybe with Infraworks + Lumion) - There is a benefit to this system since we already get Max included in our CAD license. It will definitely get continued support and development and presumably plays nice with other Autodesk formats such as Revit models from architects. However, Max just seems so overwhelming and honestly not very fun to learn.
What do you all think? Would love to get some input and gut check before I start spending a lot of time. I realize there is no perfect solution out there.
One thing I just thought I should add is that actual software cost is not so much of an issue. It's all expensive and when compared to other suites, SU is not that bad. I just don't want to invest my time into something that is dying.
