Interior Design Advice on SketchUp and Enscape
An interior that perfectly matches the wishes of homebuyers
During her studies in ‘Styling, Interior, and Design,’ Marloes Mallens discovered the versatility of SketchUp. She has since started her own company, MAR Interieurdesign, and now uses SketchUp and Enscape for all her design projects, both in the residential and commercial markets.
In 2017, Marloes began her studies in ‘Styling, Interior, and Design’ at Nimeto Utrecht. During this period, she was first introduced to SketchUp. “We didn’t receive full lessons in SketchUp at the time. However, I used it a lot at home because I wanted to learn it. This helped me tremendously in presenting my ideas during assignments,” Marloes explains.
Convincing Homebuyers Faster
While still in school, in 2020, Marloes started her interior design firm, MAR Interieurdesign. She primarily focuses on the residential market but also offers services for commercial clients.
“For the commercial market, I provide 3D visualizations for sales purposes. Many people struggle to envision the potential of a space. With a 3D layout, the possibilities become clear, making decision-making easier. By creating a fully furnished impression of the space, buyers find it easier to make a decision. This can ultimately lead to faster sales of apartments and homes. In my opinion, this is a valuable addition to the sales process,” she explains.
“Additionally, I create photorealistic renderings for businesses that already have a 3D model. Clients provide a 3D SketchUp model, and I use Enscape to transform it into a photorealistic impression. This enhances the designer’s presentation and gives their client a much clearer picture of the final result.”
An interior that perfectly meets expectations
Marloes’ main focus, however, remains the residential market. “People with renovation or redecorating plans often struggle to find the right layout and tend to settle on the same arrangement. But that’s not necessary at all. During the initial consultation, we discuss the renovation or design plans and their wishes for the new interior.”
“Based on this, I create a mood board that serves as a starting point for various layouts. I then design up to two or three possible room layouts in 3D,” Marloes explains about the first steps in the design process.
A feedback round often follows, where the mood board and layouts are discussed. “This helps ensure we are on the same page, and any modifications can be made. Once we are certain that the plans fully align with the client’s wishes, I proceed with the final design and presentation,” she continues.
The next step is selecting colors and materials, which Marloes considers a crucial part of the process: “Colors and materials define the atmosphere of a space. I help clients select the best combination and request samples where possible, so they are well-prepared when shopping for new furniture.”
The final step is presenting the completed design. “At this stage, we go over the last details before moving on to the realization phase. After the presentation, the client receives the interior design advice both on paper and digitally. I also provide photorealistic renders of the space, ensuring they have a clear and realistic vision of their future interior,” she concludes.
Software in the Creative Process
Marloes uses SketchUp and Enscape for all her design projects. To refine and enhance her presentations, she also utilizes Adobe Creative Suite programs such as InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator. “I’m highly proficient in SketchUp and can quickly bring my ideas to life in 3D. This allows me to even design alongside clients. Clients particularly appreciate seeing different layout options in 3D. Because SketchUp offers so many possibilities, I can think outside the box and continuously come up with new ideas,” she explains. “For technical drawings and floor plans, I also use LayOut quite frequently. This is an invaluable addition to the SketchUp Pro bundle, helping me create precise 2D documentation.”
Once the interior design is finalized, Marloes uses Enscape for rendering—something she wishes she had discovered sooner. “Previously, I worked with Cinema 4D, which produced great renders but was very time-consuming. Enscape is the perfect rendering solution for me because it allows me to create high-quality, realistic images in a relatively short time. These final renders are then included in a booklet with all the design elements.”
For now, Marloes primarily uses Enscape for photorealistic renderings, but she’s considering expanding her services in the future. “I hope to have my own office someday, and I would love to incorporate Virtual Reality with Enscape. How amazing would it be if clients could experience my design ideas in VR? It would feel like they are already inside their new space!” she concludes.
"With SketchUp, I can think outside the box and continuously come up with new ideas." Marloes Mallens - MAR Interieurdesign
Contact
MAR Interieurdesign
Houten, Utrecht
