Modular Walls by BoringBones

What could we do with a wall that takes up just 1/4 of the grid? The answer is: a lot! That’s why we decided that in our own game, the wall would occupy exactly 1/4 of the grid. No more, no less. It’s the ideal number — and to prove (and of course, test) it, I converted the idea into a mod for The Sims 3.

And together with many of your ideas, based on our most recent survey, I worked on a modular set that brings a level of freedom never seen before in the game! That’s because you can use these walls as full Walls or… as Half Walls!

The result goes far beyond simple walls — it’s a creative system that opens the door to nearly infinite combinations. With it, you’ll be able to mix and snap pieces in different ways: full walls, windows, half walls, and variations that let you build everything from simple structures to unique and complex creations.

Think of this set like those wooden blocks in all sorts of shapes that you probably played with as a kid! They let you build train stations or any kind of building that came to mind.

The focus here isn’t just giving more tools, but offering total freedom. So instead of working with fixed options, you’ll have blocks that snap together, allowing each player to invent their own architectural language within the game.

This is one of those projects that changes the way you build, because it’s no longer about picking something ready-made — it’s about creating.

It had been my greatest wish, up until the release of this set, to be able to create frames that fit curved surfaces. Unfortunately, I must admit, this has remained a very big challenge for me — especially in a way that these pieces align properly with their vertical and horizontal counterparts. I hope that in the future I’ll have the skills needed to fill this gap.

For now, I decided to share these wooden pieces that work well as a more simplified version of window framing. They can be combined to create all kinds of window shapes and sizes you can imagine!

They are separate pieces, and the bottom piece can also be used as a top trim (versatile, saving space in the game catalog).

My main goal with this set is to make it:
1- Easy to use
2- Catalog-friendly (with great versatility)
3- Efficient and effective

Handling all of these aspects in The Sims 3 proved to be quite a challenge. I used Pillars as the base object for all these items to ensure that Sims wouldn’t walk through them (after all, they are walls). But that also means, unfortunately, that you can’t use them to create arches :c

This was one of those cases of “This OR That.”

I would have liked to be more catalog-efficient, but to make it easier to use, you’ll notice there are duplicate pieces. The first usually refers to the bottom use, and the next is its counterpart for top use. This way, the catalog remains visually easier to navigate.

There are a few pieces I chose to leave out for now, as I still want to give them special attention — like the roofs. I’m thinking of taking the same approach as with the walls (regarding openings) to allow a similar degree of customization for roofs, rather than having pre-defined openings.

For this idea to work the way I envision, I’ll need to figure out (and learn) how to create windows effectively and efficiently, so I can make glass panes that can be added between areas. It probably won’t stop the rain from entering your house, but it could provide a beautiful view of the outdoors in the summer!

Tomorrow, I’ll be back with the Download for Supporters and more tips on how to get even more out of this set. We have a long road ahead, and the modular walls are just the first step. Share in the comments what you liked the most and how you plan to use them! I’m curious to know!