Virtual Reality
Observing transformational developments in virtual reality, in 2014 ZHA set up a specialist research tract to accelerate use of the emerging technology in architecture and design. Collaborating with leading hardware and software developers, ZHVR Group focuses on producing and implementing VR design tools, platforms, and applications for design teams and clients; researching VR’s aesthetic potential and ability to enhance architectural design; and engaging with the public to promote understanding of VR’s broader cultural role.
ZHVR Group works with partners from the extended reality and construction industries, seeking novel ways to collaborate and design within augmented reality. We are developing immersive modelling software and mixed reality simulations that facilitate evaluation of the ergonomics and materials of our designs. Our work in this sector benefits our clients as well as our designers, enabling us to present stages of project development processes to clients as immersive, high-definition, virtual reality demonstrations.
With requirements for all project documentation to be easily retrievable and trackable, we have developed a process called Sphering to collate input from every member of a project team within a single, holistic, aesthetic, 3D digital model. This eliminates software interoperability requirements and integrates the multiple types of information generated in building projects. ZHVR Group’s EU-funded PrismArch, which explores this paradigm, is a landmark project heralding an ontological shift within the brave new world of virtual reality.
Metrotopia
Expertise
Our pioneering development of virtual spaces is rapidly expanding the horizons of our practice. From an alternative version of London to a metaverse based architecture exhibition, explore the virtual spaces we are creating.
Research
Led by a culture of research, ZHA is always ahead of the curve because we never stop learning: experimenting, testing, refining, seeking. Anticipating challenges and developing solutions. Envisioning new possibilities, and finding ways to build them.