VR in architecture is a powerful design and visualisation tool
Anyone with an interest in design knows VR in architecture is having a moment.
More luxury architects are incorporating immersive VR tools in the process of designing buildings.
That now includes the team here at Studio J!
Here’s how we’re using this exciting development to improve your homes.
Our VR in architecture debut
We recently took our virtual reality experience to networking events our Wakefield architects were attending.
Delegates embraced the chance to wear the VR headset and take a virtual tour of a property we had designed just for the occasion.
They were able to walk around, explore the space and gain a realistic sense of its scale, space and design.
The feedback we received was incredible – people unanimously loved it.
Realising spaces with VR
There are many benefits to using VR in architecture.
Enhanced visualisation is a key factor.
It means our clients can realise and sit in a space before it is built, they can almost ‘try before they buy.’
For many people, this gives them a far greater understanding of architectural concepts and details compared to looking at a 2D plan.
Accessibility and collaboration are also improved.
The video can be shared with the client’s relatives, friends or people who may not be able to otherwise see the design.
As architects, we can also share the VR plan with builders or engineers, no matter where they are based.
How VR in architecture saves project time and money
For our architects in Leeds, creating a VR design for a client’s new-build house or remodelled property takes more time.
It takes around twice the work to create compared to a standard plan.
However, once the design is created, it allows clients to give more detailed feedback at an earlier stage.
This is crucial when it comes to saving both time and money.
It is much more efficient to alter a design before construction work begins than to make changes halfway through or to have to revisit the planning application process.
So while the initial design stage fees will increase, we would expect the total cost to be less than one per cent of a significant project.
In general, the larger the project is, the greater the benefits of using VR will be.
We find it has the most profound impact when applied to new-build properties, barn conversions or remodelling projects.
Improving design accuracy and high levels of detail
When we create a VR design, the level of detail available is incredible.
Instead of walking around inside a sterile white space, you will be able to see all elements of both inside and outside the house.
Minute details such as vases of flowers, duvet covers and art on the walls can be included.
This is undoubtedly fun to see, but it is also an important part of giving clients confidence and reassurance.
Creating a new-build home or remodelling your property takes many months or even years.
Being able to revisit the vision of what will be achieved, in an immersive fashion, is comforting.
For our Wakefield architects, we can also use VR designs to identify any adjustments that might be needed, test features or assess the environmental impact of a building.
The VR in architecture creation process
To create a VR design, our architects Leeds will follow a three-step process using VR architecture software.
We still create our usual drawings, plans and elevations in2D & 3D using industry-leading software, Revit.
Then, we transfer them to specialist software TwinMotion, which is a cutting-edge real-time visualisation tool.
This allows us to add in all the realistic context which brings designs alive. It can take many hours to complete this stage of the process.
Finally, Meta Quest Pro 3 is the VR headset system we use so clients can walk around the design in real-time.
We can also create a recorded video of this experience.
Why we all love virtual reality
VR is everywhere in 2024.
Even property television shows such as Your Home Made Perfect are using it in their programmes.
People are drawn to virtual reality because of the immediate interactivity – it can feel like playing a game or being transported to a different world.
Aside from the novelty factor, virtual reality architecture can offer improved education or engagement as well as unique experiences.
Talk to our virtual reality architects (in person!)
Our Leeds architects are embracing the possibilities of virtual reality, and we’d love to help you do that too.
Book in a chat for more information or a no-obligation quote by making contact with the team.
We haven’t quite got around to building a virtual reality office just yet, so the catch-up will be in person or on a call with one of our architectural experts.
