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Boston, MA The advent of Virtual Reality (VR) and the mainstream availability of 3D goggles is transforming the way both designers design using 3D visualization as well as how they present space. DiMella Shaffer Architects has been developing VR models and used ABX to showcase the capability and expose the architecture, engineering and construction industry to the opportunities that the technology creates for an audience to gain a significant understanding of the design.
DiMella Shaffer sees many benefits to clients such as enabling a better understanding and experience rather than the typical flat drawings. Users are fully engaged inside the virtual model, whether an interior space or an exterior building placement. Additionally, the VR software experience allows for the collaboration of multiple users to make better informed decisions, earlier. DiMella Shaffer also sees the potential financial benefits VR has to offer, including the reduction of mockup costs, ability to offer an immersion experience for their pre-sale and early leasing or sale of units in lieu of one built mockup, or the ability to work remotely and share clear visualization of a project with a client at a distance.
At the Leading Age conference in Boston last year they showcased its senior living portfolio, including a VR tour of Tockwotton on Waterfront Dr., an assisted living and memory support complex recently finished in Rhode Island. During the VR tour visitors could walk through the spaces in order to understand the design and specific applications particular to memory support spaces, such as natural light, colors and views.
During ABX as well this year, DiMella Shaffer assisted the BSA and the Tiny House, designed by Tracey Powell, by creating a full virtual experience of the house. Their virtual studio was set up in the showroom floor adjacent to the Tiny House, enabling an experience for those with disabilities who were unable to maneuver up and through the tiny house.
As they continue to experiment, they are finding that the possibilities and applications are endless. They realize that VR offers useful applications that deserve greater attention from a marketing and design decision making and as the technology continues to evolve the number and significance of such applications will undoubtedly increase as well, and we at DiMella Shaffer will continue to be in the forefront of the possibilities.
DiMella Shaffer is a multidisciplinary architecture practice with a strong focus on multifamily housing ranging from senior housing, market rate/mix-use, historic adaptive reuse, student residence halls, and affordable. Our work also encompasses other broader markets such as commercial, educational academic spaces, laboratories, and libraries, with experience in both the private and public sectors.
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