In this article, we will explore the process of using VR in a self-build project and how it can assist our clients in making informed design decisions. This not only provides peace of mind but can also lead to long-term cost savings. Discover whether incorporating VR into your home design process is a worthwhile investment.
SELF BUILD: BROUGHT TO LIFE
As experts in Self Building, we always work hard to present our ideas to our clients in an easy-to-understand way, but this can sometimes be a difficult task. Heaps of intricate and complicated drawings make you think, how can I even begin to understand this? Well, look no further than Virtual Reality.
Utilising Virtual Reality allows you to (quite literally) live and breathe your design. You are given the freedom to walk around and, whilst making whatever changes you need. Swap out materials, rearrange the furniture, and even change the weather! The technology gives you front-row seats as together, we make the final design choices for your home.
Beyond this, the rendered images we can produce from the model are a great way of presenting the project to the relevant planning authority and we find they are much more compelling than a 2D black and white drawing.
“In my experience, the VR session can be one of the most exciting and beneficial days in a project’s progression. I’ve never had a client leave the VR suite unhappy; they are always incredibly excited to progress their project with absolute confidence in their design.”
Heather Anderson, Part 2 Architectural Assistant
WHY DO ACA USE VIRTUAL REALITY?
We at AC Architects are huge campaigners for sustainable and energy-efficient buildings. VR can assist in designing and evaluating eco-friendly features such as solar panels, insulation, and heating systems. Viewing these elements in a virtual environment allows us to make more informed decisions that can contribute to a more sustainable and energy-efficient home.
In our design process, we can recreate all construction methods in the virtual world, including Timber Frame and SIPS. We at ACA believe in the creativity of our clients over anything else. Virtual Reality allows you to express yourself and your ideas with ease.
HOW WE USE VR FOR YOUR PROJECT
Virtual Reality has become an essential tool here at ACA. We use our 3D drawing package ArchiCAD to create highly accurate 3D and 2D models, along with static rendered images. We also output our 3D model to the BIMx App, allowing you to walk around your future home on your tablet or computer.
We use the latest Twinmotion software to give our clients a realistic view of their new home and how different materials interact with natural and artificial lighting. The integration of this into our service has been a huge success and is loved by our clients.
BRINGING EVERYONE TOGETHER AND CUTTING DOWN THE COSTS
Now for the most important question: will it save me money in the long term? The answer is yes. Aside from a more inclusive viewing process, Virtual Reality can help calculate home construction expenses, including labour and material costs. This helps to create a more accurate budget for your project and cut down on any annoying extras.
VR harnesses a unique ability to find potential flaws in a design with your own eyes. Making these changes after the construction has begun can be wholly inconvenient and commonly costly. The clear view of the project allows everyone involved to find these potential setbacks as soon as possible.
Virtual Reality opens new possibilities for all involved in the Self Build process, including the architects, builders, interior designers, and the client themselves. The use of VR creates a new line of communication between all parties involved. This does two things. Firstly, it creates a smoother design and building process. Secondly, as mentioned before, reduces the risk of extra costs along the way.
USING VR FROM START TO FINISH
Virtual Reality is more than just the initial plan. It is used from start to finish on your Self Build journey. Builders can use the models created in VR during the building process to understand the project better. After the build has been completed, the initial model can be compared to the finished product to ensure everything is right where it should be. Before you know it, your rendered design has jumped off the screen and is your new home.
Now that you understand the process and benefits of VR, do you make that initial investment? We at AC Architects believe it’s a resounding yes. The benefits of realistic visualisation, design exploration, improved communication, and cost savings make VR an invaluable tool in the Self Build process.
This new technology can turn virtual reality into your regular reality. To learn more about our Virtual Reality service, visit our offices in Dunfermline or Swindon, or click here to see our services page.
For more Self Build advice, take a look at the learning centre or follow the link below to arrange a free initial consultation with one of our team.
