Virtual Home - an Exploration of Virtual Space

Abstract: This master thesis examines virtual space, its requirements, functions and considerations. Virtual reality will not only improve the architect’s design process, but also the way our physical world is built. Metaverse is referred to as the future of the internet, a virtual world where users will be able to work, play, meet and socialize together in three dimensional spaces.The digitalisation of workplaces is already here and the past two years under the pandemic have forced many kinds of changes across society. The virtual architecture brought up in this thesis is about virtual architecture that involves the design and creation of virtual space, in terms of functional organization and three dimensional space. Virtual space design becomes relevant for architects as a tool to improve the design process and communicate ideas. Virtual architecture and virtual design and the possibilities of NFTs opens up opportunities for architects to experiment and show their designs virtually, which broadens the field of architecture and architectural design to not only being physical. The process is defined by research and insight retrieved from it. The initial analysis includes virtual reality and the future of virtual architecture. The design principles for virtual architecture was enhanced by a virtual reality experience, to understand the connection between the virtual and the physical world. The final result is a design project in the shape of a virtual home that hosts virtual interactive spaces; meeting space, virtual gallery, social interactions and relaxation area. The function serves as a virtual extension of the physical space. Rather than replacing the real-world experiences, the virtual home offers a new way to interact. Improving the digital functions we already use as an answer to the functional needs for virtual spaces today and the demand for architectural design in virtual reality. Referencing familiar objects by using skeuomorphism as a design strategy in the transition from two dimensional screens toward three dimensional spaces, will help users to understand the environment and it opens up access for more users. Environmental psychological strategies become relevant in designing virtual spaces to improve emotions, behavior and understand aesthetic preferences of the users. Virtual spaces today are mostly visually immersive, the level of immersion and interaction of the three dimensional environment can be improved by including more senses in the design.