At least one person with fingers on the pulse of the home building industry believes we are on the “precipice of a visualization revolution.” What it will actually bring to the future of home buying is still largely unknown, but it is entirely possible now for prospective new home buyers to view interior spaces through computer-generated technology. Virtual tours of previously-owned homes are almost expected today, and there may come a time when “model homes” in new subdivisions are totally unnecessary using virtual reality technology.
Visualizing the Future
Until now, some buyers have routinely had difficulty visualizing three-dimensional spaces and imagining volume and dimension when looking at two-dimensional blueprints. By necessity, there has always been an element of “trust” between client and contractor. Now, with the advent of virtual reality, it may be entirely possible to allow clients to “walk” through their home plans before a single shovel of dirt is moved on the chosen lot.
Consider what that will mean, both for the builder and for the buyer.
Tim Costello, founder and chief executive officer of Builder Homesite Inc. (BHI), says that virtual reality offers “a true sense of place, that you’ve actually walked around the room and can judge it because of the ability to see it from multiple angles.” It also allows consumers to see how light enters a room and to experience room-to-room traffic patterns, to add furniture and “play” with colors, materials and finishes.
Although no builders have yet committed to the exclusive use of computer-generated technology as a selling tool, it has attracted the attention of the nation’s third-largest home builder, Pulte Group. Valerie Dolenga, Pulte’s director of corporate communications, notes that the company has used virtual technology to pre-sell condos in New York and to show potential buyers single-family homes in Florida until physical models are finished. She notes the company will continue to use it.
Saving Time and Money
In addition to helping buyers gain a sense of the physical space, the technology has the potential for saving both builders and buyers time and money. On the one hand, elimination of most, if not all, physical models means that homes of the future may all be virtually customized to reflect buyer preferences. It may help to reduce change orders, encourage optional upgrades and simplify selection of finish materials.
Architects, designers and engineers are among building industry professionals who already sing the praises of virtual technology. By viewing building cross-sections, “seeing” inside walls and effortlessly refining and reshaping structural components, building integrity and strength have been fortified, and design has been enhanced.
Now, the same type of tools will allow the public to view spaces from different angles, to see relationships between rooms, and to “feel” the impact of the building on the site.
Embracing Possibilities
It’s a whole new world, one that promises not only great convenience, but also great impact.
We don’t know with any certainty that these visual tools will be widely available anytime soon, but we welcome the opportunity to play a small part in the advent of this exciting time for home builders and homebuyers. Aterra is already tuned in to technology in our electrical and lighting design business, and in the products we offer to buyers. We know the benefits of automation and smart home technology and the immense possibilities for added security, function, enjoyment and comfort that technology brings to local homes.
At Aterra, we look forward to working with local professionals in all segments of the industry to usher in this exciting new time. We’re ready for the future of virtual reality technology home design!