Transforming a Picture into a 3D Model: Quick Tips Importing into Your Interior Design Rendering Software in Minutes

Product Picture to 3D Model and AR (Augmented Reality) Experience Using AI

AI-Powered 3D Modeling for Interior Designers

GLB files, generated by AI-powered tools like MazingXR, are revolutionizing how interior designers create and share 3D models. These compact, versatile files offer fast loading times and seamless integration with web and AR applications, making them ideal for modern design workflows. However, designers often need to convert GLB files to edit or use them in various software platforms. This guide explores the world of GLB files, their benefits, and how to effectively work with them in interior design projects.

3D Model File Types

MazingXR offers an innovative solution for interior designers looking to transform 2D product images into 3D models suitable for rendering software. This AI-powered tool can generate AR models and downloadable .glb files from just 1-3 photos of a product. The resulting 3D models can be imported into various rendering software, enhancing visualization capabilities for designers.

When working with these 3D models, it's important to consider file compatibility across different software platforms:

• Mydoma Visualizer directly imports GLB files under 200MB, allowing for high-quality renderings and interactive panoramas

• Chief Architect doesn't directly support GLB, but designers can convert GLB to OBJ using tools like Blender before importing

• SketchUp Free offers a browser-based option for creating and editing 3D models, including GLB files

• For more advanced editing, Blender provides powerful tools to import, modify, and export GLB files or convert them to other formats like OBJ

By leveraging these tools and understanding file compatibility, interior designers can seamlessly integrate 3D product models into their design workflows, enhancing client presentations and improving overall project visualization.

What Are GLB Files?

GLB (GL Transmission Format Binary) files are compact, binary versions of 3D models that bundle all components - geometry, textures, materials, and animations - into a single file. Designed for efficient transmission and loading of 3D scenes, GLB files excel in web-based applications, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR) environments. Their key advantages include:

• Significantly smaller file sizes compared to other 3D formats

• Fast loading times and high performance

• Comprehensive 3D scene representation

• Support for Physically Based Rendering (PBR) materials

• Ability to include animation information

• Enhanced security due to bundled data

• Wide compatibility across various platforms and devices.

Creating and Editing GLB Files

Creating GLB files with MazingXR involves capturing clear photos of an object from multiple angles and uploading them to the platform, which then generates a 3D model for export as a GLB file. For editing, designers can use software like Blender, which allows importing GLB files, making modifications, and exporting back to GLB or other formats. Key steps in Blender include:

• Import the GLB file via File > Import > glTF (.glb)

• Edit the model in Edit Mode using tools like Bisect or merge vertices

• Export changes as GLB or convert to formats like OBJ for use in other software

When working with 3D models, it's important to watch out for common issues such as bad smoothing, overlapping faces, and excessive polygon counts, which can affect model quality and performance.

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Using GLB Files in Design Software

Popular design platforms offer varying levels of support for GLB files. Mydoma Visualizer directly imports GLB files under 200MB, allowing designers to create high-quality renderings and interactive panoramas for client presentations While Chief Architect doesn't directly support GLB, designers can convert GLB to OBJ using Blender before importing. For e-commerce applications, Shopify natively supports GLB files, enabling interactive 3D product visualizations that enhance customer engagement When working with GLB files across different software:

• Ensure models are optimized and follow platform-specific guidelines

• Use tools like glTF Pipeline Optimizer to reduce polygon counts and improve performance

• Experiment with PBR materials for realistic effects

• Stay updated on the latest developments in GLB file support across design software

Comparison of 3D File Formats

Various 3D file formats offer unique strengths and weaknesses for interior designers. OBJ files store geometry and textures but lack animation support, while FBX supports comprehensive features including animations but may face compatibility issues with non-Autodesk software. STL excels in 3D printing applications due to its simplicity, though it doesn't store color or texture information. For web and AR applications, glTF/GLB formats provide optimized performance and support for geometry, appearance, and animations. USD/USDZ, developed by Pixar, offers advanced features for complex scene descriptions and is favored by Apple for AR content, though it's still gaining widespread adoption.

SketchUp Import/Export File Types

2020 Fusion -

Based on the information available from the 2020Spaces website and its associated documents, here are the 3D file formats that 2020 Fusion can import and export:​

Import:

• SketchUp Files (.skp): 2020 Fusion allows users to import designs created in SketchUp, facilitating the integration of external 3D models into the software. ​

Export:

• Virtual Reality Modeling Language (.wrl): Users can export designs in the VRML format, enabling the viewing of 3D models in compatible VRML viewers.

• SketchUp Files (.skp): Designs can be exported to the SketchUp format, allowing for further editing or sharing within the SketchUp platform. ​

• Industry Foundation Classes (.ifc): 2020 Fusion supports exporting designs in the IFC format, which is commonly used for Building Information Modeling (BIM) processes.

Please note that while these formats are supported, the availability of specific import and export functionalities may depend on the version of 2020 Fusion and the licensing options in place.

Mydoma Visualizer- Imports and exports

The Mydoma Visualizer is a versatile tool that allows interior designers to create stunning renderings by importing various 3D model formats. Here's an overview of its import capabilities:​

Import Capabilities:

• Supported File Formats:

  • SketchUp Files (.skp): Compatible with SketchUp 2022 and earlier versions.​

  • 3ds Max Files (.max): Supports versions up to 2021.​

  • FBX Files (.fbx): Widely used for 3D models across various platforms.​

  • GLB Files (.glb): A binary format for glTF files, suitable for 3D models.​

  • Compressed Files (.rar, .zip): Allows for importing compressed 3D models.​

• Requirements and Limitations:

  • File Size: Each model file should not exceed 200MB.​

  • Dimensions: The model's dimensions should be within 30,000 x 30,000 x 30,000 mm (approximately 1180 x 1180 x 1180 inches).​

  • Units: Supported units are millimeters (mm) and inches.​

  • Textures: Textures should be in .jpg or .png format, with RGB mode, and a maximum resolution of 5000 pixels.​

  • Materials:

    • SketchUp: Only default materials are supported; V-Ray materials are not.

    • 3ds Max: V-Ray materials are supported, but V-Ray fur and hair materials may not render correctly.

• Common Issues Leading to Upload Failures:

  • Bad smoothing or hard edges​

  • Overlapping or broken faces​

  • Models exceeding 2,000,000 polygons​

  • Reversed normals or obsolete vertices​

  • Distorted or stretched UV parameters​

For detailed guidelines on uploading 3D models, refer to Mydoma's Help Center.

Export Capabilities:

Mydoma Visualizer allows users to export various elements of their projects:​

• Floor Plans: Downloadable for documentation or presentation purposes.​

• Renderings: High-quality images of designs can be exported for client presentations.​

• Panoramas and 720° Tours: Immersive views of designs can be exported and shared with clients.

Chief Architect Importas and exports:

​Chief Architect is a comprehensive design software tailored for residential and light commercial projects, offering robust tools for 2D drafting, 3D modeling, and rendering. A key feature of Chief Architect is its ability to import and export various 3D file formats, facilitating seamless collaboration and integration with other design platforms.​

Import Capabilities:

Chief Architect supports the import of several 3D file formats, enabling designers to incorporate external models into their projects:​

• OBJ (.obj): A widely-used format for 3D models, allowing the import of complex geometries and textures.​

• 3DS (.3ds): A legacy format from Autodesk 3D Studio, suitable for importing detailed models.​

• SketchUp Files (.skp): Integration with SketchUp models enhances design flexibility.​

• AutoCAD Files (.dxf): Supported in Home Designer Pro, facilitating the import of 3D models from AutoCAD.

Export Capabilities:

For sharing designs with clients or collaborating with professionals using different software, Chief Architect offers various export options:​

• AutoCAD Files (.dwg, .dxf): 2D and 3D exports compatible with AutoCAD, supporting both DWG and DXF formats.

• COLLADA Files (.dae): Facilitates the export of 3D models for use in applications like Lumion.

• 3DS Files (.3ds): Allows for exporting models to software that supports the 3DS format.​

These import and export functionalities make Chief Architect a versatile tool, allowing designers to integrate various 3D models into their projects and collaborate effectively across different platforms.

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How to Convert AI-Generated GLB Files from MazingXR for Interior Design Software

Why AI-Generated 3D Models Are Game-Changers for Interior Designers

The interior design industry is evolving rapidly with AI-powered tools, making 3D modeling faster and more accessible than ever. Platforms like MazingXR allow designers to convert 2D images into high-quality 3D models in just a few clicks. The output? A .GLB file, which is perfect for augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and web-based design.

But what happens when you need to edit, refine, or use these models in your go-to design software like SketchUp, Chief Architect, Mydoma Visualizer, or 2020 Design Live? This guide will walk you through how to convert GLB files for use in your interior design workflow.

What Are GLB Files & Why Should Interior Designers Use Them?

A GLB (GL Transmission Format Binary) file is a compact, binary format that packages all elements of a 3D model into a single file. It includes:

• Geometry (shape and structure)

• Textures and materials

• Animations (if applicable)

• PBR (Physically Based Rendering) materials for realistic lighting

Why Use GLB in Interior Design?

• Optimized for web, AR, and VR applications

• Smaller file sizes for faster rendering and loading

• Supports interactive 3D product visualizations

However, not all interior design programs support .GLB files, meaning conversion is often required.

Which Interior Design Software Supports GLB Files?

Mydoma Visualizer – Supports GLB files under 200MB. If the file is too large, consider converting it to FBX or 3DS.

• Chief Architect – Does not support GLB files. Instead, convert the model to OBJ or 3DS before importing.

• SketchUp – Does not support GLB files directly. To use a 3D model in SketchUp, convert it to SKP, FBX, or OBJ.

• 2020 Design Live – Requires FBX or 3DS instead of GLB. Convert the file before importing.

• AutoCAD – Does not support GLB files. Convert models to DWG or DXF for compatibility.

If your software does not support GLB files, follow the conversion steps below to ensure seamless integration into your workflow.

How to Convert GLB Files for SketchUp, Chief Architect, and More

1. Converting GLB to SKP (for SketchUp)

SketchUp does not natively support GLB, so you’ll need to convert it first.

Steps:

1. Use Blender (Free & Open Source)

   • Open Blender → File → Import → Select .GLB

   • Export as .FBX or .OBJ

2. Convert to SKP using Transmutr or SimLab Composer

   • Import .FBX or .OBJ into Transmutr (paid) or SimLab Composer (free trial)

   • Export as .SKP (SketchUp Format)

3. Import into SketchUp

   • Open SketchUp → File → Import → Select your .SKP file

Now you can edit and render the AI-generated model in SketchUp!

2. Converting GLB to OBJ/3DS (for Chief Architect)

Chief Architect does not support GLB but works well with OBJ and 3DS formats.

Steps:

1. Open the GLB File in Blender

2. Export as .OBJ or .3DS

   • File → Export → Choose OBJ or 3DS

3. Import into Chief Architect

   • Open Chief Architect → File → Import .OBJ or .3DS

Now you can use the AI-generated 3D model in Chief Architect!

3. Converting GLB to FBX/3DS (for 2020 Design & Mydoma)

Both 2020 Design Live and Mydoma support FBX and 3DS formats.

Steps:

1. Open GLB in Blender

2. Export as FBX or 3DS

   • File → Export → Choose FBX or 3DS

3. Import into 2020 Design Live or Mydoma

   • Open your software → Import the converted file

Now your AI-generated model is ready for rendering!

Best Free Online Converters for Quick GLB Conversion

If you don’t want to install Blender, try this online converter, it does contain ads but work well. Doesn’t do .Skp files but does many others.

• AnyConv – Convert GLB to OBJ, FBX, 3DS

Pro Tip: Online tools may not always preserve textures and materials perfectly—always double-check in your rendering software.

How to Optimize GLB Files for Better Rendering

When working with AI-generated 3D models, you may encounter issues such as large file sizes, broken geometry, or inefficient rendering. To ensure smooth performance and high-quality visuals, follow these optimization steps:

• Reduce Polygon Count – Use glTF Pipeline Optimizer to create lightweight models.

• Check Normals & Faces – Ensure there are no overlapping or reversed faces, which can cause rendering errors.

• Optimize Textures – Use JPG or PNG format in RGB mode, with a maximum resolution of 5000px, for better performance.

• Test PBR Materials – Experiment with physically based rendering (PBR) materials to achieve realistic lighting and textures.

Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Format for Interior Designers?

If you’re working with AI-generated models from MazingXR, converting GLB files ensures compatibility with industry-standard interior design software.

• SketchUp – Convert GLB to SKP, FBX, or OBJ for seamless integration.

• Chief Architect – Use OBJ or 3DS formats for compatibility.

• 2020 Design Live – Convert GLB files to FBX or 3DS before importing.

• Mydoma Visualizer – Supports GLB, FBX, and 3DS, making it one of the most flexible platforms for 3D models.

Next Steps: Try It for Yourself!

Now that you know how to convert AI-generated 3D models, experiment with these tools and integrate them into your design workflow. Having the ability to quickly create, edit, and import 3D models can enhance your client presentations and improve overall project visualization.

For a step-by-step walkthrough on importing and converting AI-generated 3D models, check out Importing and Converting Your AI 2D Pic to 3D Model formats from The DAIly, demonstrating how to import 3D models into Blender, convert them for use in SketchUp and Chief Architect, and troubleshoot common issues with textures and model accuracy.

Have questions about AI in interior design or 3D modeling workflows? Reach out below and check out The DAIly to keep up with all the AI tools available and check out the AI Design Tech Summit in April!

This article was written by Jenna Gaidusek, founder of AI for Interior Designers™, and enhanced using ChatGPT.

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