Introducing Augmented Reality

Architecture Augmented Reality from Studio Gade on Vimeo.

We realize that, for our clients, it’s much harder to picture exactly what designs will look like when they are finished, than it is for us, who create the designs.  With the help of a piece of card, an HD camera and HDTV, we are able to take a 3-dimensional look at the home or office design, all controlled by the client.  It can be turned left, right, upside down and back again, all with the simple movement of one’s hands!

Here’s how it works:
We take a piece of cardboard with markers on it.  We then position an HD video camera above the card and link it to our computer.  The computer then feeds a 3D image of the design onto our HDTV screen.  The design is linked to the markers on the card, so as the card moves, the design moves.  The client can then, by picking up the card and swiveling it, view their design from any angle that that they wish.  Really simple!

At KFPA, we believe that we need to employ the latest in technology in order to constantly deliver the best service and build into the high standard of our industry.  The beauty of architecture is that it is art that one can walk through – but when it’s still in the design phase, it’s impossible to do that.  With the use of 3D augmented reality, we are able to make it possible.

3D Display Technology

As architects, we communicate with buildings and structures.  We strive to deliver the message of our clients through the buildings that they live and work in.  Designs on paper are only the beginning and handmade models are no longer viable for smaller projects.  The future of design has, and is ever changing; the future is in technology.

At KFPA we have equipped our offices and boardroom with the latest in digital technology that enables us to design and present projects in full 3-dimensional format.  Using cutting-edge software, hardware and high-spec computers, we bring designs to life in true 3D.

With specialized stereographic liquid-crystal glasses and an HDTV the pictures and videos appear 3-dimensionally, which presents a greater feel for the potential of the designs and instills confidence in the end product.  Our software uses the computer’s GPU (graphics processing unit) as opposed to the CPU (central processing unit).  This generates pictures and videos that look smoother and more life-like.

Architecture is ultimately the finished product of a process that can take from six months to several years to complete.  Once the project is in the final building stages, this is often the first time that the client is able to get a real feel for the design, and it is then costly to make changes that could have been made back in the design stage.  Our use of 3D display technology allows our client to anticipate changes that they would like to make before it gets costly.

A partnership designed for excellence

At the helm of this partnership are André Krige and Mark Falconer. Falconer joined Krige Architects in 2006 as a student who was determined, passionate and focused. With a bursary from Krige Architects, he completed his B.Arch Hons and M.Arch from the University of Witwatersrand and finally the University of Pretoria.

Having completed his studies in 2007, he took the Professional Practical exams a year later and entered into a partnership with Krige to form the new company: Krige Falconer Partnership Architects. As with any new venture, it holds great potential to explore and push the boundaries of the architectural vocation whilst upholding the highest professional standards.

You can expect to see a new standard emerging in areas of augmented reality, 3D display technology, integrated design & presentation, green consciousness, 3D stereo design, XR technology and much, much more.

KFPA seek to lead opinions in architecture and remain trusted professional service providers in the South African and Global architectural services industry.