Architecture with immersive technologies: Next generation architects and clients

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies have the potential to augmented experiences within the design process of architecture. Technology devices like smartphones have become an important part of our everyday lives. Younger generations even see these devices as an extension to their personalities. However, more research is needed to understand the benefits and risks of this technology-based design approaches as their application in the context of the architectural design process has not been explored. Therefore, the main aim of the paper is to discuss the states of these technologies, the adaptive/evolving nature of young peoples relationship to technologies and the use of these tools in the design process of architecture. This will show that VR and AR technologies should be part of the education process in architecture schools. It is necessary for architects to use the potential of these tools to create new design solutions rather than letting unaided machines create designs. Technology on it's own cannot generate effective design solutions. It has to be applied with critical thinking and nuanced human reasoning to be truly effective in the design process. This needs to be instilled in the design education stages itself