Over recent years, technology has continued to advance. It’s impacted on all aspects of our lives – from socialising to connecting with friends and family. The impact has been felt across the sectors from architectural practices, supply chain and plant hire through to construction sites UK wide.
Technology for architectural services hasn’t evolved for centuries, but recent advancements have made processes more efficient and cost-effective for the consumer.
The key technological advances for architectural services
1. The Internet of Things (IoT) and Business Information Modelling (BIM)
IoT refers to connecting traditionally simple items to the internet. Smart thermostats, video doorbells and smart devices, such as Alexa or Google Home, are all examples of IoT in practice.
For architectural design, IoT can help in the BIM process. Buildings can now be fitted with sensors to measure energy usage, temperature trends and foot traffic. This data can then be used alongside BIM or 3D plans to improve future buildings and plan refurbishment projects accurately, helping to ensure investments are spent wisely.
2. 3D modelling
When designing a building, even the most knowledgeable designers can struggle to understand or visualise how much space they need or exactly how a building may look from a 2D plan.
3D modelling using CAD can allow you to create fly-throughs/visual walkthroughs of exactly what a building may look like once developed. This enables modifications to be made before construction begins, reducing costs and time spent on improvements.
3. 3D printing
3D printing has been largely used in the research and development of consumer products, but it’s now beginning to be used in architectural design too. The use of large-scale 3D printers can help to create intricate prototypes and models of complex structures, which minimises the cost of modifications once construction begins.
4. Virtual Reality (VR)
VR allows you to put on a headset and immerse yourself into a different reality. It’s often used in video games, but it can also be used for architectural services and
design. From initial design concept, through to making the finishing touches to a building, VR can be utilised throughout the entire process.
It allows all of the project team to explore the building throughout the process, taking a look at all elements of the design and structure. This enables changes or alterations to be made easily and cost effectively.
What are the benefits?
For architectural consultants, property developers and their clients, there’s a variety of benefits to the advancements of technology:
· What you see is what you get – the 3D modelling and VR capabilities allow clients to see the building clearly, before construction even begins. This enables them to have a clear understanding of exactly how their project will play out.
· See the building and experience it before it’s built – VR allows clients to really experience the building before it’s built, giving a clear idea of space and the surrounding environment.
· Avoid expensive mistakes – 3D modelling prior to construction allows potentially expensive mistakes to be avoided, as issues or alterations can be identified easily and resolved quickly.
· Reduce the amount of project management needed – with one defined design of a building or structure, there’s a clear point of reference for everyone involved in the project.
· Plan spaces more easily – 3D modelling and VR helps to give an understanding of space and proximity, allowing for interiors to be easily developed.
Giving you the freedom to be flexible
At ICI Architecture, we offer 3D modelling and VR as standard, with a like-for-like price match guarantee. This allows you to see the space and feel it, before you commit to it.
The design process is all about you and your idea. We’ll guide you through the endless possibilities, harnessing the power of technology to do so.
For more information about how technological advances can help your property development process, get in touch by calling 01260 602 005.
