How to make your builds look more aesthetic in Minecraft

Minecraft might be mainly a survival game, but building is a significant part of the gameplay experience. Many players concentrate solely on creating impressive structures, treating the game as a canvas for their imagination. Building in Minecraft is not just placing blocks; it's a new form of art and is all about creativity. Some of the creations online are as artistic as paintings and sculptures anywhere else.

To improve your builds in Minecraft, you have to consistently practice, and knowing how to practice is equally important as it helps you build better and faster.

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Tips to guide your practice and enhance your building skills in Minecraft

Use references to build

Use references to learn how to use unconventional blocks for building (Image via Mojang Studios)

Taking inspiration from real-life architecture, artwork, or other Minecraft builds helps to get an idea of how a structure can look and work. To enhance the visual appeal of your builds, consider combining different types of blocks to add layers.

For instance, you can mix cobblestone with mossy cobblestone to create an aged texture. For contrast, try pairing wood planks with stripped logs. Don't hesitate to use unconventional blocks in your designs, such as looms, composters, or even ore blocks.

Using shaders can greatly improve the lighting and reflections in your game, especially if your builds don't look as impressive as those you admire. Shaders can significantly elevate the ambiance of your creations. Many gamers also utilize editing programs like Photoshop to adjust the lighting and color in their screenshots.

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Test the builds in Creative Mode

Use the unlimited resources in Creative Mode to learn (Image via Mojang Studios)

Use Minecraft's Creative Mode to try your structures before building them proper in Survival. With unlimited resources and not having to worry about hostile mobs, you can focus entirely on your build. You can try new block patterns to find what works. There are websites like blockpalettes.com that provide you with a lot of block patterns that work well together.

Experiment with mixing blocks of similar shades or contrasting tones to create striking designs. Break up flat surfaces by adding stairs, slabs, and trapdoors. Consider switching to Minecraft's Survival Mode when you feel confident enough.

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Feel free to create a unique base design

Have fun with the foundation to build structures that stand out (Image via Mojang Studios)

The foundation is the backbone of your building, setting the stage for the rest of your design. To make your constructions truly unique, think beyond traditional shapes. Start with a basic rectangle or square, then add extensions to create a more intricate layout. Experiment with shapes like circles, hexagons, or even asymmetrical patterns for a build that doesn’t end up looking like huge boxes.

When building upwards, craft each floor to be distinct from the others. For example, your second floor could extend outward with balconies or even a new room that doesn’t exist on the basement floor. Use layers to create dimensions, such as recessed windows, protruding columns, or framed walls. You can even add overhangs and stepped roofs to create a sense of depth.

Add vines, leaves, or hanging plants to give your buildings an organic, lived-in feel. Greenery always enhances your builds in Minecraft.