Jack Adams, last updated August 2026

Contents: Overview | Tools | Sources | Steps | Publishing

Now how did we do this?

Overview

This project demonstrates how to make a 3D model of a structure using historical reference material (in this case Mission San Francisco Solano). Using information gained from paintings and google maps, we were able to make a reasonable recreation using the 3D modeling software SketchUp. This allows viewers to get a better sense of the size and layout of the original structure.

Tools

• SketchUp v3.1, for modeling
• Google Maps
• SketchFab, for hosting

Sources

First image reference:

Second image reference:

Steps

This section provides a narrative description of the steps taken to complete the process. Each step includes a general statement of the goal and then provides a short description of how the project lead implemented the step.

Modeling

• Begin by opening Sketchup

• Use the rectangle tool (the fourth tool from the top on the bar on the left side of the screen) to create a rectangle on the axis parallel to the ground. After you begin to create the rectangle you may type in the dimensions you would like it to be then hit enter (You can see the dimensions you are typing in the bottom right hand corner of your screen). This rectangle is only a preview and will not be created until you click something else.

• Repeat the previous step using your structure’s dimensions until you have a full 2D “floor plan” of the structure.

• Now using the Push/Pull tool, directly under the rectangle tool on the tool bar, drag each part of your structure up. Similar to the rectangle tool you may type in the height of the structure you are recreating.

• With the main structure created, we need to create the roof. Select the line tool which is the third from the top and just above the rectangle tool. Start by creating your first point in the middle of the top line on the short side of one of your structures. The line tool will snap to center.

• Drag this line up and same as the previous tools you may type in the height you would like to make this line which will be the center and tallest point of your roof.

• Using the line tool connect the top of your center line to the corners of the structure to create a triangle.

• Repeat these steps for the other side of your structure.

• Connect both tops of the centerpoint lines to complete the roofs.

• Repeat these steps for the rest of the structures roofs.

Clean Up

• Use eraser tool (second from top) to remove any unnecessary lines.
• If desired, add windows/doors and colors/textures.

Publishing

• Export the model Sketchup
• Open up Sketchfab
  • Create an account if necessary. There is a “free” (i.e., freemium) version of the program. It requires uploaded models be created as open access items.
• Upload the model into Sketchfab
• Add metadata and relevant information
• Publish model with metadata

Longevity

Five years estimate

3D models are not entire stable for the longterm and freemium programs are not reliable for long-term storage. As of yet, Sketchfab haas not removed open access models. It’s possible that this model might be avaible for decades. Nonetheless, there is no certainty and creaters should not count on ongoing availability.