XR STUDIO

This project is designed & developed in collaboration with Sasaki Daisuke and Toda Yuto as members of DDL (Digital Design Lab), NIKKEN SEKKEI.

Architecture projects, especially large-scale ones, can take over a decade from planning to completion. Throughout this process, architects and stakeholders rely on drawings, CG renderings, and models to envision the future building. As building requirements become increasingly complex, traditional design communication methods often fall short in conveying spatial understanding effectively.

To address these challenges, we developed a groundbreaking approach: integrating extended reality (XR) technologies throughout the entire architectural lifecycle.

In April 2023, we launched the XR STUDIO within PYNT, NIKKEN SEKKEI headquarters. This dedicated space (4.8m × 2.7m × 2.7m) serves as a hub for various XR experiences, featuring projection mapping, VR, AR, and MR technologies. The studio offers three key capabilities:

Scale Calibrator:

Using Rhinoceros and Grasshopper, this tool projects building 3D models as orthographic views at any scale, from 1:1 to 1:100. This enables real-time verification of design elements such as scale verification, tile pattern checks, stadium seating spacing, and furniture arrangements.

Projection Library:

A comprehensive collection of basic architectural dimensions and Nikken's past projects, allowing designers to physically experience spatial scales and materials. This includes remarkable visualizations of projects like SHIBUYA SKY from Shibuya Scramble Square, the Sky Tree observation deck and the Hyper-Kamiokande facility.

Dimension Explorer:

An interactive system where physical objects, projections, and MR displays work in concert, allowing seamless transition between digital and physical dimensions while exploring spatial relationships.

Impact and Future Directions

The XR STUDIO has significantly enhanced our design process by enabling higher-resolution spatial understanding and more intuitive communication with clients. Its success has led to regular project reviews and client presentations.
Looking ahead, we see spatial computing as a crucial bridge between physical architecture and digital models. We continue to develop cohesive data flows that will enable new experiences connecting different spatial dimensions. The XR STUDIO aims to serve as a collaborative platform where practical architectural spaces intersect with virtual worlds, addressing both current design challenges and future social needs.

Media Coverage:

日経アーキテクチュア 2023年8月24日号 特集 「勝者のプレゼン術」

NIKKEI XTECH (August 2023) 「日建は本社にXRスタジオ設置、各社の最新ツール事情」

BUNGANET (March 2023) 「速報：日建設計が東京オフィスを“実験的大改修”、キーワードは「会社に来たくなる」＋「行動変容」」