Algorithmic Design in Virtual Reality

Abstract

Virtual reality has been shown to facilitate perception and navigation inside 3D models, while stimulating creativity and enhancing architect/client interaction. In this scenario, in order to better explore paths along the design space that are suggested from this interaction, it is important to support quick updates to the model while still immersed in it. Algorithmic design, an approach to architectural design that uses parametric algorithms to represent a design space, rather than a single design instance, provides such support. We present a novel architectural design process based on the integration of live coding with virtual reality, promoting an immersive approach to algorithmic design. The proposed workflow entails the use of an algorithmic design tool embedded in a virtual environment, where the architect not only creates the design but also interacts with said design, changing it by live coding its algorithmic representation from within virtual reality. In this paper, we explain the challenges faced and solutions devised for the implementation of the proposed workflow. Moreover, we discuss the applicability of algorithmic design in virtual reality to different stages of the architectural design process and the future developments that may arise from this proposal.

Quasi-architecture as a reality of modern times

“…The algorithmic design methodology in virtual reality is proposed by R. Castelo-Branco and A. Leitão. They consider an immersive programming technique in which architects can design from a virtual environment, actually being in a building that changes around them [17].…”

A Systematic Review of Architectural Design Collaboration in Immersive Virtual Environments

“…Commonly used design collaboration platforms in the AEC industry such as BIM tend to be tailored to the later design and management stages rather than providing support for the conceptualising, interacting, and sharing of design concepts at the early stage [7,87]. Most virtual collaboration tools are focused on visualisation [31,88,89]. A few recent tools that support design ideation (such as Wild, Mindesk, and Arkio) provide limited design functions of sketching or parametric modelling, etc., and they have not yet been widely applied and tested throughout the design industry.…”

“…The parametric design functions provided by some tools rely mostly upon external add-ons rather than within the collaboration environment itself. There is a clear need for an algorithmic design feature in collaborative ImVE [89]. Furthermore, there is also a lack of advanced design features such as those for analysing building performance, cost, and land use, which are essential for making more informed design decisions during architectural design collaboration.…”