Virtual environment should be able to replicate real environment as realistic as possible. This paper proposes a design framework for constructing virtual environments using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Virtual Reality (VR) packages, or in short, CAD-VR approach. This paper discusses the technical issues involved based on the experience in developing two prototype models of the Universiti Utara Malaysia Sports Complex and Sultanah Bahiyah Library. The benchmark of the development is the compatibility of the three dimensional (3D) CAD models with VR packages. The CAD modelling issues that have been encountered throughout the development stages are also discussed for future guidelines
