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The metaverse offers entirely new ways to create spaces that seamlessly combine the physical and digital worlds. Augmented reality enables the transformation of spaces, their versatile use, and the creation of new user experiences. 

“The metaverse can revolutionize our understanding of spaces and their use. It is also a key to more sustainable architecture, where physical spaces can be replaced or extended through digital means,” says Pia Fricker, Professor of Computational Methods in Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning at Aalto University.

Professor Fricker's research team is working closely with the Henning Larsen architectural office on the METAVERSITY-project, funded by the Ramboll Foundation in Denmark. As part of the research, the university café was transformed into a dynamic environment that responds to users' feelings.

According to Mariusz Hermansdorfer, Head of Computational Design at Henning Larsen, the collaboration is an excellent example of how a partnership between a university and a company can accelerate innovations in the field of architecture.

Student Café Transformed into Dynamic Experimental Environment

The test platform for the research was the multifunctional student café at the Aalto University School of Arts, Design and Architecture. Like other multifunctional spaces, it previously lacked a distinct character and students found it difficult to feel a sense of ownership of the space. 

“We wanted to find out how students can take over the space and modify it to their liking,” Fricker explains.

The research, conducted by Mahsa Tajalli, Tina Čerpnjak, Pia Fricker, Maya Shpiro, Mariusz Hermansdorfer and Iliana Papadopoulou, developed amongst others a smartphone application that allows the space to respond to students' feelings about it, changing its form and colours accordingly. This enabled multiple users to use the application simultaneously, increasing interaction and discussion about the use of spaces.

“Users can leave their mark on the space either as themselves or anonymously. In our Colour Sense prototype, colours represent emotions and needs, creating empathy and a shared understanding of spaces. Digitalization also enhances the accessibility of spaces,” Fricker continues.

For firms like Henning Larsen and Ramboll, this represents an opportunity to expand their service offering beyond traditional architectural design. As expertise in integrating the digital and physical worlds evolves, companies can offer more versatile and innovative solutions to their customers.

“One-off projects can transform into long-term partnerships, where we provide continuous services to optimize spaces and enhance user experiences,” Hermansdorfer concludes.

Text: Marjukka Puolakka