Role of the Hybrid Architect in Design: Part 1

We posed the question, what is the role of the architect doing hybrid design? Gadi Amit writes that hybrid design dispenses with theory and relies on nimble, multi-faceted teams of experts to tackle the complexities of a design challenge.  We will share our thoughts on hybrid design in a series of short blog postings.  In the first of the series, Dan discusses how the role of the architect is evolving as technology advances.

Augmented reality is an expanding technology, which layers digital, computer generated information over a physical, real-world environment. It “augments” one’s view of reality.  The increase in smartphone ownership, means a large amount of the population already posses devices capable of running augmented reality software. Augmented reality revenues are expected to increase from $2 million in 2010 to $732 million in 2014 (source).

Using this technology for design is already being experimented with in various forms.  The Netherlands Architecture Institute has created an app for users to tour projects, which are under construction. Using the camera on their smartphone, the user can see a 3d model of the project layered over the real-world environment. There are few limits to how this technology could be used. Imagine using this same software to enable the public to view and judge design proposals.

In another case in Tokyo, AR is integrated into the facade of a new building.  Again using their smartphone, the user is able to explore the insides of the building while standing at street-level.  They can view specials at stores inside the building, or see who is tweeting and where they are. 

Architects are designing for both the real and digital world.  Users will interact with their buildings in more that just the physical sense.  As the Augmented Reality technology begins to expand, architects will become more valuable to those wishing to take advantage of this spatial technology.