What's the most efficient/practical way to create square extrusions when working in subd?

Question

Below is an example of what I'm talking about.

My constraints are as follows:

My mesh is using the subdivision surface modifier.
I have to use support loops rather than edge creases.
I have to reduce the amount of polygons in the mesh.
There is an existing square face, and I want to extrude within that area without changing the topology outside of that area.

So my question is:

What does the ideal topology look like in this situation, assuming those constraints?
What's the most efficient way to create it, starting with a square face? Are there any addons that can help?

Edit: Here's an an example solution.

moonboots · Accepted Answer · 2023-02-25 08:58:14Z

0

You can use this kind of topology:

Same thing:

How I would go to create this topology? First create a 3x3 grid:

Bevel what needs to be bevelled:

Create these edges and dissolve these others:

You should end up with this:

answered Feb 23 at 9:21

moonboots

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$\begingroup$ Can this solution be used if I only have one face that I must work within (as stated in the question)? $\endgroup$
– P. Private
Feb 23 at 9:39
$\begingroup$ what do you mean by one face? Maybe show your wireframe if it helps to understand? $\endgroup$
– moonboots
Feb 23 at 9:40
$\begingroup$ Added an extra image to the question. $\endgroup$
– P. Private
Feb 23 at 9:45
$\begingroup$ If your solution works fine without pinching or artefacts, then I guess you can use it $\endgroup$
– moonboots
Feb 23 at 10:15
$\begingroup$ I see, so IIUC typically you would just start within something like a 3x3 or 4x4 grid of faces, then inset from there, since that gives you the support loops for free. $\endgroup$
– P. Private
Feb 25 at 8:38

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