How a 3D Rendering Helped Win a Design Project

In foodservice design, the ability to visualize a space before it's built can have a huge impact on winning a project. That was certainly the case with the recent cookline installation at Sheridan Technical College, where a request for a 3D render helped seal the deal.

Sheridan Technical College was looking to upgrade its aging cookline to better serve two key functions: culinary training and campus feeding. Their Culinary Training program focuses on food preparation in a commercial kitchen, menu planning, and hospitality management. Winning this project was a great opportunity to get Vulcan equipment in front of future cooks and chefs.

The project came to FL Reps through Barry Sisselman of Johnson Lancaster, who had attended a MOD suite learning event hosted in Fort Lauderdale by FL Reps, featuring presentations by Dan Montgomery, Vulcan's Director of Design and Project Business. That event sparked the connection and ultimately led to the opportunity.

Steve Smith from FL Reps was quoting against a competitor. The day before a decision-making meeting with the client, Steve reached out to the Vulcan Project Team with a request: could we provide a 3D render of the proposed Vulcan lineup to help bring the vision to life? 

The goal wasn’t just to show how the cookline would look, but to also verify fit and functionality within the existing space. The original lineup featured 34" ranges installed in a recessed floor, making fit and functionality critical concerns.

Our CAD/Revit designer, Cullen Cook, quickly produced a detailed 3D render of the cookline. Using Vulcan's comprehensive modeling process, Cullen was able to deliver a visual that not only showcased the equipment but also demonstrated how it would fit into the space. 

Our Revit modeling process includes:

• Full parametric data
• Precise utility connection points
• Clearances and service zones
• Realistic material finishes for enhanced visualization

This level of detail allows consultants, designers, and the end users to see exactly how the equipment will function within the space, reducing guesswork and increasing confidence in the design.

The final lineup included a 36" Open Burner Range, 36" Heavy-Duty Range, 18" Griddle Top, 36" Charbroiler, 36" Modular Griddle, 36" Infrared Broiler, Two battery PowerFry3™ Fryers, and a Frymate Holding Station.

The impact of the 3D render was immediate. Seeing the cookline in a realistic context helped the client visualize the final installation and understand how the equipment would meet their needs.

Thanks to the render, Steve Smith's quote stood out, and the client chose his over the competition. The cookline installation moved forward, and Sheridan Technical College now has a state-of-the-art setup that meets both functional and aesthetic goals.

This project is a perfect example of how visualization tools like Revit and 3D rendering are essential in foodservice design. For consultants and designers, partnering with manufacturers who offer robust modeling can be a strategic advantage.

At Vulcan, we understand that every project is different. Our Design Team provides continuous Revit support, custom drawings, and deliverables with quick turnaround on revisions to meet the unique requirements of each project.

For more information, contact Vulcan Project Manager - Custom and Heavy-Duty Products, Alex Piñero. Subscribe to our design and consultants email subscription list for updates.