The architectural industry has evolved more rapidly than most through, partly due to the innovative technology available. The sector – driven by digital innovation – incorporates elements of 3D and 4D printing (scanned materials) real-time ray tracing, augmented reality and artificial intelligence (to name a few).

Architects are creating virtual worlds that are revolutionising property marketing and other industries.  Many trends have surfaced over the past decade, and in 2019, they are gravitating around the advances in virtual reality, parametric designs, and prototyping.

Visualising virtual reality

Cloud computing has offered every industry the ability to evolve with technology. In the virtual architecture sphere, it has empowered designers to incorporate technological tools during the planning, designing and managing phases of developments. Virtual reality is an example of technology transforming prototypes into a computerised reality. While this creates a virtual illusion, this environment offers a completely immersive experience of the senses.

Virtual reality turns conceptual designs into existence through its sophisticated software. While creating this new form of reality it also dramatically improves the communication between virtual architects and their clients. Through these virtual models, mistakes are spotted, empowering designers to add additional value to the projects.

Modern Prototyping

Traditionally, physical prototyping was pivotal to conceptualise a design or building; however, with the increase of technological developments, they are rapidly being replaced by virtual reality and its vices. Virtual prototyping is creating immersive experiences that help architects and constructors develop better-informed insights.

Contemporary forms of prototyping are empowering constructors to create spatial connections to building elements. This connection benefits both the client and designers, as it reduces errors in the building phase of the design. Much like data and analytics, modern prototyping will occupy a pivotal role in constructing innovative, durable buildings.

3D, 4D Printing and Scanned Materials

The rise in 3D and 4D printing is attributed to their innovative nature and popularity in both this industry and beyond. These two technologies are predicted to change the look and feel of buildings in the future, incorporating better (recycled) materials and more. Along with the power of this type of printing, virtual architects are also harnessing the power of scanned materials. Scanned materials or PBR provide texture, light and depth to an object in a render. They absorb reality into a virtual environment and offer a more holistic view of an object. Scanned materials are occupying a prominent position in multiple spaces namely the real estate, construction, architecture, prototyping and gaming environments.

The evolution of technologies requires modern architects to understand trends and develop informed insights around them. As virtual architectural specialists, Vizform is not only futuristic in design but also visualises the result incorporating elements to best suit your needs.