The Future of Stair Design: Hillside Contracting’s VR Revolution

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The Future of Architecture: Combining Virtual Reality and Sustainable Materials in Stair Design.

Staircases, once seen as purely functional elements, are now emerging as focal points in architectural design thanks to the pioneering efforts of Hillside Contracting. By merging virtual reality (VR) with cutting-edge parametric design and innovative fabrication methods, Hillside Contracting is revolutionizing how stairs are envisioned, designed, and built. This forward-thinking approach not only raises the bar for the industry but also delivers an unparalleled client experience by allowing users to virtually walk through their stair designs before construction even begins. Through a blend of high-tech solutions and sustainable methods, Hillside Contracting is turning staircases into highly personalized, artistic statements.

From Traditional Drawings to Virtual Reality: Ushering in a New Age of Stair Design

Historically, stair design has relied on flat blueprints, 2D visuals, or even 3D models, which often fall short in conveying the complexity of intricate, modern forms. Recognizing the limitations of these traditional approaches, Hillside Contracting took a bold step into virtual reality to bridge the gap between conceptual design and real-world experience.

"We didn’t set out to dive into VR or coding initially. Our primary goal has always been to push the boundaries of architectural design, particularly with parametric stairs, by using AI. However, as our designs became more complex, we realized traditional methods couldn't fully capture the spatial experience we wanted to convey," explains Alex Shynkarou, CEO of Hillside Contracting.

A bespoke Android app designed for the Meta Quest 3 VR headset, enabling clients to explore life-size, fully immersive versions of their future staircases. This virtual walkthrough provides a level of spatial awareness and interactivity that traditional drawings or renders simply can't match.

Whether for renovations or new builds, Hillside Contracting leverages the precision of the Trimble X7 laser scanner to collect detailed measurements of the environment. These data points are then integrated into the VR design, ensuring the new staircase fits perfectly within the space and offering clients a truly interactive, immersive design process before construction begins.

Precision Meets Sustainability in Fabrication

Once the virtual design is finalized, Hillside Contracting moves seamlessly into production, utilizing advanced fabrication technologies to transform digital models into reality. At the heart of this process is a 3D-printed metal exoskeleton, created through cutting-edge additive manufacturing techniques. This exoskeleton serves as the structural backbone of the staircase, ensuring both strength and accuracy.

To complement this metal framework, an eco-friendly bio-composite material is applied using a robotic arm. This method allows for the smooth transition of complex parametric shapes from the virtual realm to the physical world.

By employing these advanced materials and methods, Hillside Contracting distinguishes itself from conventional stair manufacturers who often rely on traditional building practices. This forward-thinking approach not only delivers visually striking staircases but also prioritizes sustainability, in line with the increasing demand for environmentally responsible construction.

Bridging the Gap Between the Virtual and Physical Worlds: A Glimpse into the Future of Stair Design

Hillside Contracting's innovative methods go beyond mere staircase construction—they are crafting unique, sustainable architectural elements that harmonize with their surroundings. The integration of VR into the design process empowers clients to actively participate in shaping their spaces, making real-time modifications and exploring their future staircases in a virtual environment before anything is physically built.

This marriage of virtual and physical design techniques points to a broader shift in the construction industry, one that emphasizes immersive, personalized experiences and sustainable building practices. By allowing clients to engage deeply with their designs in virtual reality and then bringing those designs to life with precision fabrication, Hillside Contracting is paving the way for a new era in architectural innovation.

Contact Info:
Name: Alex Shynkarou
Email: Send Email
Organization: Hillside Contracting LTD
Website: https://www.hillsidestairs.com

Release ID: 89142426

CONTACT ISSUER
Name: Alex Shynkarou
Email: Send Email
Organization: Hillside Contracting LTD
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This content is reviewed by our News Editor, Hui Wong.

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