Virtual reality technologies have long ceased to be the privilege of the entertainment industry. They are penetrating into serious spheres: medicine, industry, spacecraft development. Today we are going to touch upon the subject of the use of VR in architecture and design
4 ways of using VR in architecture
1. Presentations in VR
Most often VR in architecture is used for conceptual presentations. The fact is that the clients of construction companies and creative bureaus are not known for their imagination. Architects and designers find it difficult to explain their ideas in words. Mock-ups from paper and models printed on a 3D printer do not make the task any easier.
With VR, a specialist can show the customer a version as close to reality as possible. Customers get excited and are more willing to part with their money.
2. Directing contractors
Team coordination is an important part of a successful project. It is desirable that all contractors have an idea of the end goal.
In the U.S., prior to erecting facilities, VR presentations are given to top management and construction team foremen. They, in turn, convey the information to the rank-and-file employees.
3. Multiple Choices
It’s not uncommon for a design to look great in sketches, but not fit into the actual interior at all. Or a house standing alone on a model looks great, but it does not fit in with the urban architecture.
A virtual “fitting” reduces the risks. For example, IKEA has released an AR application. Anyone can download it and choose the ideal furniture.
If you have ever had a project approved by a client, you are already familiar with situations where the client is clinging to a minor detail, and can’t see the rest. For example, the color of the walls irritates him. He gets hung up and “wraps” the entire job.
In virtual reality, you can interact with objects. With one movement, you can repaint the unfortunate walls or remove distracting objects.
4. Model detailing
The existing methods of layout are not flexible enough. You will not be able to work out every detail of the interior in a 3D printer, and drawing in the editors will take a lot of time.
Using VR apps for architecture and design, you can work out the details. Show different models of furniture in the same space. Decorate a room with cute things.
5. Portfolios in VR
A trend of recent years. They attach videos shot in 360, or mini simulations, to the traditional photo portfolio. This approach attracts potential clients.
Top 7 VR apps for architects and designers
1. Enscape
The Enscape app generates virtual reality in real time. If you make changes to your 3D model, the result is displayed in the same second. You can control the time of day to see the color of objects in different lighting conditions. Enscape functionality also allows you to select interior and landscape materials.
2. insiteVR
InsiteVR is a virtual platform for remote team communication. Participants are placed in a three-dimensional model of the project. Architects, designers, managers can: walk through the rooms of the future building, move objects, change their scale. InsiteVR has a “Notes” function – you can write comments directly on the elements of the layout.
3. Twinmotion
Twinmotion is useful for professionals in the field:
- architecture;
- construction;
- city planning;
- landscape design.
4. Revizto
Revizto – multifunctional software for architects and designers. Combines the constituent parts of the project into a single 3D object. Allows you to find yourself inside the layout and detect flaws in the early stages of development.
5. IrisVR .
Provides a smooth transition from 3D model to virtual reality. In IrisVR you can:
- hold meetings;
- comment on the elements of the layout;
- draw;
- measure the dimensions of objects;
- change the scale;
- take virtual screen shots.
The platform can be used by up to 12 people simultaneously. This makes IrisVR a clear leader for teamwork and design in VR
6. Fuzor
Fuzor allows you to create and customize design settings in virtual reality. For example, move furniture or change the material of surfaces. The program is a bit like The Sims with an architectural twist. In Fuzor, you create your avatar. You can communicate with other users. An additional feature is the possibility to animate the plan of the project.
7. Revit Live
Revit Live is a cloud-based rendering engine. In addition to the static and panoramic rendering features, the option to go to VR is available.
Click the “Go Live” button. The service will upload the 3D model to the cloud, process the data, and send you the VR version. The mechanics of navigating through the layout are intuitive. The interface will give you hints, directing you to doors, stairs, and transitions. In the rooms you will be able to turn the lights on and off.
