This project synthesizes the core principles of Environmental Design and Computing for Designers. You will design and develop an interactive 3D environment that communicates the unique ecology of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The objective is to create an immersive, educational experience that demonstrates technical proficiency in 3D asset creation, scene lighting, and real-time rendering, underpinned by an efficient and intelligent computational workflow.

Environmental Design (3D Asset Pipeline):

• Modeling: Created a complex, original 3D models using industry-standard polygonal modeling techniques in Maya.

• Texturing: Develop high-fidelity textures and materials for your assets using Adobe Substance Painter, demonstrating understanding of diffuse, normal, roughness, and specular maps.

• Lighting & Scene Assembly: Model a simple underwater scene and illuminate it effectively using Unity's lighting system (combining baked and real-time lights) to create a specific mood and highlight your central asset.

Computing for Designers (Technical Execution):

• Interactivity Script: Implement basic user interaction (e.g., mouse-over to display the organism's name, click to rotate) using fundamental C# programming within Figma or Adobe XD.

• AI-Augmented Workflow: Utilize generative AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Midjourney) in the conceptual phase only to brainstorm environment ideas, generate color palettes, or quickly prototype texture concepts. This use must be clearly documented in your process portfolio.

Learning Outcomes & Conclusions

This project provides hands-on experience with the complete pipeline for creating real-time 3D environments, a critical skill in fields like game design, simulation, and interactive media. You will demonstrate not only artistic skill in modeling and texturing but also crucial computational thinking regarding optimization, data management, and the strategic use of emerging AI tools to enhance the design process. The final deliverable is a technically sound, visually compelling interactive piece that showcases your ability to communicate complex information through environmental storytelling.