The typical restraints of design no longer exist. Extended reality, which is an umbrella term for technologies that combine the real and virtual worlds, is experiencing a renaissance in the design world. This transformation of the way we create new spaces is expected to become more popular as time goes on. 

In fact, market data shows that the global AR/VR market size is set to escalate at an annual growth rate of 23.7% from 2024 to 2030. As we look forward at the ways VR will transform design, here’s a look at how virtual reality and simulations have already become game changers for the design industry.

Providing A Three-Dimensional Perspective

While two-dimensional design is the foundation of the industry, it will always pale in comparison to life in three dimensions. “When it comes to design, working in two dimensions is ‘not a natural experience,’” Jon Matalucci, virtual design and construction manager at Stantec, a global design and engineering firm, told Time. “We experience things in 3D, and there’s a loss in translation’.” 

The capabilities of VR and design only came into play a couple years ago. Now, many architecture firms own VR headsets like the Meta Quest or the Google Cardboard. Design tools like Revit and Rhino help create 3D digital models from blueprints, and programs like Enscape and Twinmotion allow architects to almost immediately step into spaces they’ve designed.

When it comes to using virtual reality to design new spaces, experts note that it’s particularly beneficial for designing healthcare buildings. Simplifying the overlapping systems required in medical facility design, from process piping to oxygen to electrical, Time continues. In a structure like a sports stadium, virtual reality allows architects to see every perspective, ensuring that each seat gets the ideal view they deserve. “For a sports stadium, for example, the model could simulate how fans view the game from various locations,” Autodesk shares. 

Improved Education and Training 

Innovating new ways to learn and educate the masses is one of the great gifts of virtual reality and simulations in design. This is particularly the case for jobs that require hands-on learning. However, it’s not just for students and trainees. For example, engineers can use simulators and VR to create and test new designs and adjustments. 

From students and trainees to seasoned professionals, everyone can find their niche when it comes to extended reality. Experts also note that the use of extended reality and simulations can boost employee engagement, since team members are more able to immerse themselves in training and gain a greater perspective of what they’re doing. “Their sense of accountability might be heightened by this knowledge, which could improve performance,” Appinventiv shares.

A great example of this is in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where the Tulsa Welding School provides students with a VR training simulator in its refrigeration technologies training program. Meanwhile, the Training Center of Air Conditioning and Heating uses VR-driven training for its heating, ventilation and air conditioning students. From all different levels of training and education, extended reality has its place. 

Bolstering Safety 

Manual labor always has risks, and there’s very little margin for error. By using simulations in the design process, companies can run drills and training to provide test runs for construction work that comes with great risk and tremendous insurance costs.  Using VR and simulations for safety training is ultimately a wise financial decision for companies. 

According to OSHA’s online center, the construction industry has the most fatal injuries, with 1 in 5 fatal injuries reported on construction sites. Experts say that construction injuries cause damage of around $11.5 billion on average. To remedy this, construction company Bechtel uses VR simulations for high-risk activities like scaffolding and crane operations. 

Also, the use of prototypes can help people train to detect whether there’s possible risks or dangers before getting out there on site. This could prevent a large amount of hardship, and keep employees safe. By working actively with the teams they’re designing for, construction companies can get greater feedback from clients about what kind of facilities they really need. 

Virtual reality and simulations are revolutionizing the design process. Architects and designers gain a greater perspective through a three-dimensional perspective. VR and simulations are also extremely beneficial in education, allowing people to gain a hands-on approach much sooner. 

Extended reality bolsters safety, ensuring a much safer construction experience for all parties involved. That’s why it’s no surprise that the number of worldwide AR and VR users is projected to reach 3,728 million by 2029. As the design and construction industries continue to blossom, the future belongs to those who are willing to explore these new innovations that have exponential possibilities.