Exploring immersive digital environments

Abstract

In contemporary architecture firms, most design drawings are done via use of 3D modelling software. This method requires advanced knowledge of the software in order to produce an accurate representation of space into the digital environment. The paper argues that conventional 3D visualization methods to design and analyse are restrictive to how well the user understands the space on a computer, as drawings are done ex-situ and without testing the design concept in-situ, hence there might be a level of disparity between the design and final fabrication. This is particularly a challenge when designing Urban Interaction Design concepts, as combinations of variables play a role in how the design will be received by the audience. Observing the design challenges for Urban Interaction Design and applying knowledge to architectural representation, potentially an alternative sketching process can be developed to alleviate the disparity between the conceptual design and post fabrication. This paper discusses an experimental process of using wireless spatial sensing devices to digitize physical spaces in real-time and to use on-the-spot analysis. In its conclusion the paper argues that this method enables the designer to gain advanced conceptual understandings of the intended space and thus make more informed decisions. © 2014, The Association for Computer-Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia (CAADRIA), Hong Kong.