Technology
Immersive technologies like VR, AR, and BIM are revolutionising sustainable architecture by enabling architects to incorporate eco-friendly principles from the very beginning. As technology evolves, platforms like anitya continue to adapt and advance, supporting architects in designing more sustainable and innovative buildings.
August 22, 2024
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In Amsterdam, The Edge stands not just as a model of modern office architecture but as a blueprint for the future of sustainable design. Widely recognised as one of the smartest and greenest buildings in the world, The Edge combines cutting-edge technology with an unwavering commitment to sustainability. What sets this project apart is the innovative use of immersive technologies, including Virtual Reality (VR), which played a crucial role in its design and development.
This is just one example of how architects are implementing advanced technologies to improve their designs. Immersive experiences, which encompass the broader spectrum of XR technologies, allow architects to interact with digital blueprints, foresee potential flaws, and make improvements. This approach integrates sustainability into the design process with unprecedented ease.
At anitya, we believe that VR and AR are particularly suited for growth in this area. We are committed to supporting architectural practices as they explore the true potential these technologies offer.
Immersive technologies enable a detailed exploration of spaces before they are built, ensuring that sustainability is considered at every stage of design. Whether it’s visualising how natural light interacts with materials or simulating environmental impacts, these tools allow architects to make eco-conscious decisions throughout the design process. These are milestones already achieved through the use of VR, AR, and BIM.
However, implementing these technologies comes with challenges. A significant hurdle is the steep learning curve associated with mastering these tools. Additionally, the industry faces a real pain point with the rendering times for 3D models. Architects often lose precious time waiting for these visualisations, which delays the creative process and hampers the ability to make timely adjustments.
Real-time visualisation is, therefore, crucial—not only for speeding up workflows but also for maintaining the creative momentum that is essential in architectural design. Architects must balance the time required to learn and implement these technologies with the demands of their projects, often working under tight deadlines and budget constraints.
Anthony Samaha, an architect deeply engaged in sustainable design and member of our community, provides valuable insights into the integration of technology and sustainability in architecture. With extensive experience in computational design and immersive technologies, Anthony emphasises the importance of mastering a few key tools to make significant strides in sustainable architecture.
"In everything I do, I ensure that designers can leverage emergent technologies to create," says Anthony, highlighting the importance of using tools like anitya to explore new possibilities in sustainable design. However, the journey is not without its challenges. "We often have to adopt simpler approaches due to the lack of 'billable' time on sustainability projects," he explains. This statement underscores a common issue in the industry: while the desire to innovate is strong, the realities of budget constraints and tight timelines can sometimes limit the extent to which new technologies are fully utilised.
Despite these challenges, Anthony advocates for embedding sustainability into every project, regardless of its primary focus. This mindset shift encourages all designers to consider sustainable approaches, even when it may not align perfectly with profitability. His experience with immersive technologies, particularly in integrating sustainability within project constraints, reflects broader industry trends and highlights the critical role these tools play in modern architecture.
In the broader industry, low-code platforms are transforming how architects approach design. These tools not only streamline the integration of immersive experiences but also facilitate collaboration across multidisciplinary teams. By allowing for rapid prototyping and iteration, architects can more easily explore sustainable design options and make informed decisions that align with their environmental goals. The accessibility of low-code platforms is also helping smaller firms and independent architects compete on a level playing field with larger, more resource-rich studios.
In this context, anitya’s low-code toolkit stands out as a prime example of this shift. By providing an intuitive interface that reduces the need for coding expertise, anitya allows architects to leverage the full potential of immersive technologies in their sustainable projects. With features that support detailed environmental simulations and real-time collaboration, anitya not only makes sustainable design more achievable but also more efficient. As the industry continues to evolve, we believe tools like anitya will play a crucial role in helping architects meet the growing demands for innovation and sustainability in the built environment.
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