Smart Home Automation and Virtual Reality
Significant developments in technology – particularly in the fields of automation. Machine learning and virtual reality – continue to change our day to day lives in almost every sphere.
In particular, the interior design sector is transforming immeasurably quickly. With every step from initial planning to the fabrication of products being in some way enhanced by advanced tech.
This article will explore just a few of the ways in which these developments are impacting interior design.
AR and VR “Walkthroughs”, Staging and Modelling
Property Walkthroughs
The use of Virtual Reality (VR) walkthroughs is becoming fairly commonplace in the estate agency, lettings and corporate rent to rent worlds – but it can be, and is being, applied to interior design.
One major benefit of this practice is that a client or collaborator may be “immersed” in the relevant spaces and can move seamlessly between them. Thus gleaning a clear sense of flow that would otherwise only be achievable in the finished rooms.
Through the use of AR, a design or design feature can be virtually “superimposed” onto any real-life background to give a sense of its scale and the ways in which it may change the viewer’s perception of a space.
VR on the other hand, is usually more interactive. Through the use of headsets or other more immersive technology, a designer can therefore present an entirely different environment to the viewer. Without any need to use their existing surroundings.
This enables them to present a complete “transformation” or to help clients to envision the design of a space that does not yet exist.
Staging
While virtual staging has been around for a number of years, the quality of its functionality and execution continues to evolve.
“Staging” is a practice in property development and interior design that enables professionals to showcase their ideas to potential clients and collaborators in a visual arena.
This can be done practically, by displaying design pieces or mock-ups “in-situ”. But a more versatile way of doing this is through the use of AR and VR technology.
Modelling to Scale
Similar technology can be used in the presentation of scale-models. Although the rise of the 3D printer is also exceptionally helpful in creating immensely detailed and minutely accurate physical representations, too.
Internet of Things
Automation and VR does not only revolutionise how we design but has also completely changed the functionality of the items we place in our buildings.
Everything from access systems to audio, to cleaning and hygiene, to entertainment and leisure, to household pets and plants, to cooling and heating, cooking, refrigeration and security can all be enhanced by this new technology.
This is in no small part due to the swiftly developing “Internet of Things” (IoT). IoT is a network of “smart” equipment and devices, which basically encompasses everything that isn’t a computer, smartphone or tablet, but which may be controlled by one.
All of these items can be remotely programmed, adjusted and monitored either according to our own preferences or through the medium of machine learning and automation. Many can also integrate with one another for greater ease and a more cohesive and practical home design.
Automated Design Optimisation
Designers now have access to hyper-intelligent resources that can influence and support the decisions they make, both functional and aesthetic.
Through the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning technology, data relating to the behaviours. Movement patterns and preferences of the users of a building can be collected, stored and analysed.
This in turn can make personalisation and hyper-efficient design simpler and more achievable than ever before.
Even changes in mood and usage contexts can be – to some extent – analysed and factored-in for more effective all-round interior design.
To conclude
When used well, the practical and evaluative aspects of automation and VR can vastly improve many of the more quantifiable aspects of design, potentially leaving more room for creativity. Why not take this opportunity to check out Pathfinder Homes’ virtual tours of their luxury lodges!
