Starling Loose Cover Sofa Model | Next

Starling Loose Cover Sofa – Production Model

Next | Modeling & Cloth Simulation

The Starling Loose Cover sofa is a branded production model created for Next, designed to balance visual realism with the technical constraints required for large-scale retail use. The key challenge of this asset was achieving the relaxed, draped appearance of a loose-cover sofa while keeping the model efficient and suitable for a production pipeline.

The base structure was built using traditional polygonal modelling techniques, ensuring clean topology and consistent edge flow across the frame, cushions, and arms. To achieve the characteristic looseness and natural sag of the upholstery, cloth simulation workflows were integrated into the process, allowing the fabric to fall, crease, and settle in a believable way without relying on excessive geometry.

Throughout development, I worked closely with the branded team to refine proportions, softness, and silhouette, ensuring the final asset accurately reflected the physical product while remaining optimised for rendering and reuse. Particular care was taken to avoid over-density in areas such as folds and overlaps, while still preserving enough surface detail to hold up in close-up product shots.

The final model strikes a deliberate balance between realism, performance, and flexibility, making it suitable for a wide range of fabric variants and lighting setups within Next’s production environment.

Key Focus:
-Branded asset creation for Next
-Hybrid workflow: polygonal modelling + cloth simulation
-Realistic loose-cover fabric behaviour
-Production-optimised topology
-Close collaboration with branding and product teams
-Scalable model suitable for multiple fabric applications