Transforming Architectural Design: Lifesize Plans’ Augmented Reality Journey

Integrator Media had an exclusive interview with Georges Calas, CEO of Lifesize Plans Dubai. The Q&A delves into Lifesize Plans Dubai’s innovative approach to architectural and construction planning through the integration of augmented reality (AR) technology. It explores how Lifesize Plans uses advanced projection technology to showcase building floorplans in a true 1:1 scale, allowing clients to visualize their projects with unprecedented realism.

1. Could you explain Lifesize Plans’ approach to integrating augmented reality with traditional architectural and construction planning? How did this idea originate?

Lifesize Plans Dubai, headquartered in Australia, offers a unique service of projecting building floorplans in a true 1:1 scale using advanced integrated projection technology, allowing clients to walkthrough floorplans in real size before construction begins. Additionally, Lifesize Plans leverages augmented reality to further enhance clients’ visualization of their projects.

Lifesize Plans’ approach to integrating augmented reality with traditional architectural and construction planning is both innovative and practical, offering clients a collaborative space where they can actively participate in the pre-construction planning process. It goes beyond conventional floorplans, offering clients a comprehensive visualization of their projects through AR, including interior and external landscaped areas, providing clients a clear understanding of how their project will look like upon completion.

Lifesize Plans introduced AR as an additional advantageous tool aimed at streamlining the pre-construction process. Traditional architectural and construction planning methods often encounter limitations, particularly in effectively conveying the spatial experience through 2D drawings and static renderings, which can result in client misunderstandings. Hence, the integration of advanced technology and AR into the pre-construction phase benefits all parties involved, facilitates clear communication and ensures successful execution of projects. 

• How has the introduction of AR technology transformed the client consultation process at Lifesize Plans?

Integrating AR has significantly transformed the client consultation process at Lifesize Plans Dubai. Some benefits include:

Enhanced Visualization: AR allows clients to visualize their project in a more immersive and realistic manner. Instead of relying on 2D drawings or static renderings, clients can clearly visualize a virtual representation of their future space.

Real Time Changes and Improved Communication: AR facilitates live adjustments to floorplans during pre-construction. This level of interactivity enables clients to experiment different designs and observe the outcomes of their decisions, also fostering streamlined communication between clients and professionals.

Time and Cost Efficient: By visualizing and adjusting floorplans in real-time, clients can swiftly identify risks and minimize costly revisions during construction. This streamlined process facilitates quick decision-making, ultimately saving both time and money.

• What are some of the major technical challenges you’ve faced while developing and implementing these AR services?

Incorporating advance technology including AR into diverse processes poses several technical challenges, including the following:

• Companies must consider the financial constraints associated with developing and deploying AR solutions. Customizing AR apps can range from a few thousand dollars to six figures, depending on complexity and features.
• Companies often worry about skill/technological gaps and may lack expertise in AR development, use-cases, and maintenance. Bridging these gaps requires proper training and upskilling of the workforce.
• Allocating financial and human resources to AR implementation is challenging. Organizations must balance competing priorities to ensure AR projects receive adequate attention.
• Convincing top management to invest in AR technology can be difficult. Demonstrating clear benefits and ROI is essential to gain buy-in from decision-makers.
• As AR services become more widespread, privacy and safety issues arise. Companies must address cybersecurity threats and comply with regulations to protect user data and maintain trust.
• Some stakeholders may have misconceptions about AR, leading to resistance or hesitation. Educating executives and users about the potential benefits of AR is crucial.

• In what ways do you believe Lifesize Plans’ technology sets it apart from other companies in the architectural and interior design industry?

Lifesize Plans Dubai’s advanced technology is an effective tool in the architecture, interior design and construction industry, standing out as a unique concept for various reasons.

• The technology allows individuals to walkthrough future projects before construction begins in a true 1:1 scale, providing a level of realism and spatial understanding that traditional 2D renderings often lack. Lifesize Plans’ AR services also provide detailed, immersive visualization, further allowing clients to engage with their projects.  
• Clients can make live changes to floorplans during pre-construction to see immediate effects of their choices, facilitating quick decision-making to align with their vision.
• Lifesize Plans enhances virtual projections by integrating faux furniture and props to, allowing clients to interact with and experience the layout and functionality of the space, while also savings costs for real estate developers by eliminating the need to invest in showcases villas, apartments, etc.

• As the CEO overseeing operations at Lifesize Plans, what have been your biggest learnings from integrating such advanced technology into everyday business processes?

Lifesize Plans’ integration of cutting-edge technologies has not only enhanced business processes but also revolutionized the interaction between clients and professionals revolving around architectural and interior designs. The combination of immersive experiences, collaboration, and efficiency has been a game-changer for the company but also sets new standards within the industry. Here are some of my learnings:

• Using advanced technologies has transformed client engagement and collaboration as it allows clients to explore future spaces in detail and visualize them before it is built. 
• Integrating advanced technologies is both time and cost efficient, streamlining designs and planning phases.
• Advanced technology enables stakeholders to make quick, improved, and realistic decisions. Whether it’s choosing finishes, evaluating spatial layout, or assessing overall aesthetics, having a tangible representation helps clients and professionals alike, contributing to successful project outcomes.