Using virtual reality to evaluate how people might feel and perform within adaptive architecture

• Main Author: Adi, M. N. H.
• Published: University of Salford 2011
• Subjects: 721
• Online Access: http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.680466

With the rapid development of interactive building materials that can react in real time, a new type of architecture is about to emerge. Buildings that can transform their selves and change their appearance are gaining popularity and could become the new norm in architecture. The potential convergence of artificial intelligence and adaptive building materials offers the possibility of having a lifelike building that is not only interactive but can also think and become social. A series of experiments are made using different virtual environments and placing participants in animated, interactive or seemingly intelligent structures. The justification is based on the wide spread use of virtual reality in architecture and an established body of literature showing that virtual environments are a useful tool in assessing how people might react to different experiences. Results presented indicate that when placed in a simulation of a lifelike building, people are more productive and feel more comfortable than a regular static one. Placing such a building in a social virtual environment showed that an interactive building can generate more visitors and interest than a static counterpart. This demonstrates the validity of animated, interactive or intelligent buildings and that they are not just a novelty item in the architectural world. A multiple measure approach was used and increased confidence in the use of virtual environments as an indicator of how people might react in similar real life scenarios.