BIM meets XBox, coolness ensues

In conversation with a friend last night, he told me about a new company he's working for called Heartwood Studios in San Ramon, CA. 

In short, this company produces really high-quality 3D models for clients that allows for videogame-like interaction with the built, digital model.

They've used their expertise in many different areas, including creatin realistic looking simulations for the Defense Department, High Tech companies and major retailers.  I think their tag line really sums it up; "Digital Storytelling through Visual Extravaganza!".  Essentially, they are digitally creating the end use product or experience in the virtual world.  They are giving clients the ability to see their designs come to life and move in a way that prototyping never could.

 

               

What struck me though, was their work with Real Estate Developers.  They've worked with everyone from the Dallas Cowboys in digitally creating the ENTIRE new stadium down to apartment building developers who want to show clients what the view will look like from their new 30th floor condo.

And if that wasn't cool enough, they are taking BIM to the next level by using CAD/BIM created building information, and essentially wrapping a digital skin around it, turning it into a rich-environment experience.  You can walk through the buildings, sit in any of the seats, look out the windows, even watch promotional videos on tiny, digital flat screens inside the 3D model. 

This has tremendous value for developers for many reasons:

1. Allows them to showcase their property, in full built form, to investors, possible tenants and even City organizations  in charge of providing permits

2. Once the real life building is complete, the 3D model could be used for efficient commissioning or training of building maintenance staff at fractions of the cost

3. The model can even help with decommissioning down the road or could be used to digitally evaluate additions, changes or remodels to the structure; spending far less than you would in traditional construction

Visit the site and check out some of the videos they have under the 'Developers & Real Estate' section.  Blow your mind, especially if your'e a developer.

Comments

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Very cool Jared - I like the way you see it, you are correct in your assessments about the value. We are currently talking to Engineering and Design companies that want us to do the Modeling for their 3D / 0% Design work. This trend has started and is a lot of fun. I think everyone wins with this approach. Besides its way cool!!