According to The American Society of Landscape Architects, virtual reality (VR) is a" powerful tool for landscape architects, architects, planners and developers - really anyone involved in designing our built and natural environments." Soon city planners will be able to envision their projects in a whole new perspective with virtual data that will overlay the main visual and allow them to see their project in an enhanced way.  

If an architect chooses to use VR they will be presented with a  simulated 3-D landscape from multiple points of view such as a street view or an aerial view.  Having access to these views enhances the architects depth perception and sense of the space surrounding the lot. It will also give the architect a chance to redraw streets and neighbourhoods within the vicinity of their project.

Even though VR will benefit the architect the most, it will also help the public visualize the architects plan in a more interactive way. They will have the chance to not only see the building but also walk through the building and engage with areas that they were having difficulties imagining like cafeterias, office spaces, etc.

In addition to providing the public with an interactive experience, VR could also benefit a few public sectors. If the public safety planning committee was shown the building, they could map out hazardous-material data and overlay it onto floor plans for reference in the event of emergencies. The city planning committee could similarly map out where the water, electric, and gas lines are in order to avoid accidental disruption.

If you're wondering how VR will be an asset to the architecture community, the video above provides a  demonstration of the potential of VR as a tool for architects and interior designers.

Source: Government Technology, Cover photo © Unsplash