Digital technologies have transformed the way of producing and working in many sectors. And among these technologies, Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality have significantly improved the way of visualising and validating the tasks carried out, even increasing the productivity of companies. In the architecture sector, Virtual Reality stands out in particular, a technology that makes it possible to improve the designs previously made in 3D and to visualise the final result of a house, building or structure to be built much more accurately.

How is Virtual Reality used in architecture?

In recent years, Virtual Reality in Architecture has evolved to become a very valuable tool that benefits all areas of any project. From the planning stages, to project closure and beyond.

The technologies used in Virtual Reality, such as Building Information Model (BIM) software, allow you to understand each process much better, which in turn helps you to deliver a better design and, more importantly, improve communication and collaboration with your clients.

Thus, Virtual Reality in architecture is used before starting a project, studying and calculating the elements that will later form part of our design. You can also use it during the design of the same project, validating measurements and reducing possible errors. And above all, once the design is finished, Virtual Reality is a great support to show the architectural project to clients, collaborators or even builders of the work.

Benefits of applying Virtual Reality in architecture

Apart from boosting and favouring productivity, Virtual Reality applied in architecture offers other great benefits:

1. Personalisation of the individual experience
   With these solutions you will be able to involve your clients in an absolutely immersive environment. In this way, they will visit their future home, modify the finishes, combine colours, etc. In other words, they will feel part of the project.
   
2. Simulation of real-world scenarios
   With this technology you will be able to explore and improve the initial design by generating a real experience. For example, imagine you are building a public building: with this resource you can simulate the possible evacuation routes in case of emergency, to choose the most appropriate option. Virtual Reality can also help you to better understand the effects of glare, light distribution and compensation of artificial light to help save energy.
   
3. Construction training
   During the construction phase, Virtual Reality can provide a training ground for new construction workers. Accordingly, Virtual Reality applications act as a proactive approach that translates into efficiency and, above all, safety.
   
4. Savings
   While it is true that Virtual Reality technology requires an upfront investment, we are convinced that the ROI (return on investment) it will provide will more than compensate for it. Take, for example, the visit of properties. You will be able to show any project from the office without the need to travel, or even online.
   
5. Competitive advantage
   They say that if you don't risk, you don't win. In this sense, being one of the first in the market can reward you in terms of brand recognition. Remember that we are talking about very new technologies in the architectural field, but it is undeniable that they are disruptive technologies. Therefore, it may be the right time to take the big step towards Virtual Reality in your company.
   

Other applications of Virtual and Augmented Reality in the workplace

As companies consider new applications, developers are improving tools to try to help them. But one thing is clear: the use of both solutions can be extended to almost any industry:

• Design departments
• Logistics and warehouse management
• Hazardous situation simulation
• Industrial maintenance
• Museums
• Cultural heritage
• Education
• Advanced information visualisation
• Product catalogue
• Training and protocol

If your company is currently using 3D models and other methods to present architectural projects to clients, it is time for you to jump on the Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality bandwagon. If you don't know where to start, INVELON Technologies is ready to help.