Redefining Space in the Age of Spatial Computing

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ARCH 4001. Fall. 2024

Redefining Space in the Age of Spatial Computing

Ming Tang
Professor, Registered Architect, NCARB, LEED AP, Director of Extended Reality Lab. UC Digital Futures. Leadership committee, Institute for Research in Sensing (IRiS);
School of Architecture and Interior Design, College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning, University of Cincinnati

In the age of spatial computing, architecture transcends the physical boundaries of bricks and mortar, evolving into an expansive realm that merges computational technologies. This studio embraces the transformative potential of AI in the architectural design process, expanding physical spaces into the metaverse and positioning architecture at the forefront of our society’s digital revolution. By serving as a platform for spatial experience, architecture redefines our interaction with space and each other.

This studio invites students to collectively harness the power of AI to create virtual architectural spaces that inspire, connect, and elevate the human spatial experience. Students will design a convention center to host various activities, from large conference events like SIGGRAPH and trade shows like CES to small lectures and social events. They will research the spatial layout of a convention center and explore the possibilities of migrating these activities to a fully 3D virtual space in the metaverse. The studio will also delve into the intersections of AI, digital twin, and XR technologies with the metaverse, enabling students to push the boundaries of traditional architectural design. Through this exploration, students will gain insights into how digital advancements can enhance and transform spatial experiences, fostering innovation and creativity in the architectural field.

Course Objectives:

  1. Project Focus:
    • Create immersive and interactive experiences within a virtual convention center.
    • Utilize the concept of metaverse to enable dynamic environments that respond to and anticipate human needs, fostering a deeper connection between individuals during social interactions.
  2. AI-Assisted Design Exploration:
    • AI Collaborators: Collaborate with AI for form inspiration, iterate design concepts. AI will act as a co-creator, offering insights that drive concept design with efficiency.
  3.  Exploration of new roles of architect:
  • Examine the evolving roles of architects, which now demand new skills and a renewed commitment to digital innovation.
  • Experience Designers: Focus on creating meaningful experiences, considering how spaces—both physical and virtual—affect emotions, behavior, and social interactions. Design with empathy, prioritizing human-centric approaches.
  • Digital Curators: Curate digital experiences by designing virtual spaces that complement and enhance physical environments, crafting immersive experiences in the metaverse while balancing aesthetics, functionality, and user engagement.

Course Structure:

  • Initial Phase: Introduction to the spatial computing age in architecture, the integration of AI, digital twin, XR and the metaverse, and the expanded roles of architects.
  • AI Collaboration: Engage with AI tools and methodologies to enhance design processes and outcomes.
  • Experience Design: Focus on the human experience, both in physical and virtual spaces, ensuring human-centered designs.
  • Project Development: Design and develop a virtual convention center with specified programs and interactive features.
  • Ethical and Inclusive Design: Address and incorporate ethical considerations and inclusivity into the final project.

Expected Outcomes:

By the end of this studio course, students will have developed a comprehensive virtual convention center that showcases the innovative use of metaverse technologies. Students will gain a deeper understanding of their evolving roles as architects and the importance of creating inclusive, empathetic, and ethically sound digital spaces.

Program

  • Design a large-scale virtual convention center that includes a large auditorium, exhibition space for trade shows, and various-sized meeting rooms  for event/daily use and collaboration.

Requirement

Besides the basic software available at the DAAP computer lab, students should have their own computers to install various additional tools.

AI-assistant design workflow will be encouraged in the studio.