In recent article, ArchDaily highlights the importance of advanced technology design tools, such as virtual reality and includes Shanghai Astronomy Museum as an example of how to use VR as an opportunity to better understand and communicate design elements.
During the conceptual design and planning of the Shanghai Astronomy Museum, we used VR to analyze lighting conditions within the building. The VR tools displayed various colored blocks showing where the building will receive the most light, with redder blocks signifying more light exposure. As a result, the building utilizes scale, form, and manipulation of light to heighten awareness of the fundamental relationship to the sun and the earth's orbital motion, creating an immersive experience that places visitors in direct engagement with real astronomical phenomena.
Click here to read the full ArchDaily article.