Marking a 3D model of this iconic stadium
We were tasked with modeling the Maracana Stadium which would host the final of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
A lot of time was spent researching and collating images of the stadium, including references to the seats, dugouts, entrance and exits, the pitch, roof and outer structure. Furthermore, images of construction plans and measurements were sourced, so we could build the stadium as accurately as possible.
Using Lightwave 3D and the LWCAD plugin range, we mapped out the main areas of the pitch and the four-foci-ellipse (or isocircle – aka false ellipse) seating area and roof. From there we were able to match side profile construction plans and extract the correct number of rows for the lower and upper tier seating areas.
Using Lightwave 3D 11.6 instancing, we placed an instance placeholder poly for each of the stadium seats and where symmetrically possible, mirrored groups of poly placeholders. This allowed us to create the base seat geometry, for both open and closed seating, reference the instance placeholders and reduce final render times.
The resulting model is now available on TurboSquid in lwo, lws and obj formats.