Smartphone-Based Virtual Reality in Residential Architecture: Enhancing Spatial Understanding Through Immersive BIM + VR Visualization

Rafał Stabryła () and Magdalena Grudzińska ()
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Rafał Stabryła: Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Lublin University of Technology, 40 Nadbystrzycka St., 20-618 Lublin, Poland
Magdalena Grudzińska: Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Lublin University of Technology, 40 Nadbystrzycka St., 20-618 Lublin, Poland

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 22, 1-29

Abstract: The integration of smartphone-powered Virtual Reality (VR) into architectural practice is transforming how unbuilt spaces are perceived. The presented study is based on ten single-family house projects in which immersive visualization was introduced through mobile VR headsets connected to Building Information Modeling (BIM). It should be treated as a pilot study, preceding further comprehensive research on the subject. A total of 23 participants (investors and future users of the buildings at the same time) were actively involved in the design process supported by VR technology. Field of view adjustment was implemented within the BIM + VR model to align the virtual perception with the natural human visual range, improving the realism of the experience. Preliminary findings indicated that VR walkthroughs enhanced the future users’ understanding of spatial arrangements and supported informed decision-making. Over 80% of participants reported that it helped them better assess room sizes, placement of windows and doors, and furniture layout. This improved communication between investors and designers, and reduced the number of revisions required at further design stages. The use of VR to merge architecture with interior design enabled a human-scale perspective, cost optimization, and the exploitation of BIM + VR visualization potential for sustainable residential design.

Keywords: building simulation; virtual reality; residential architecture; VR walkthroughs; immersive design; smartphone-based VR; spatial perception (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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