Architect Hilario Canessa, a distinguished graduate of the Architecture program at Universidad ORT Uruguay, and his firm, Studio 4D, have brought about a significant leap in the way large-scale architectural projects are perceived, positioning themselves at the forefront of innovation in architecture and new technologies.
As reported by the newspaper El País, its latest feat—the virtual visualization of Amazon’s new headquarters in Washington, D.C., valued at over $12 billion—is a perfect example. Studio 4D uses a virtual visualization tool based on Epic Games’ Unreal Engine.
- You might also be interested in reading: “Architecture and video games: a partnership that is changing the way things are done”
This approach offers an interactive experience that goes beyond static images. Using a simple PlayStation controller, you can explore the streets of the project, examine the details of the buildings, and switch between day and night in real time. It’s a virtual representation that comes to life.
https://youtu.be/ZMbVOsYup-I?si=NSPaneTx6VQVGXUC
Amazon's project in National Landing is massive: it spans 263 hectares and features an innovation that Canessa and his team have helped bring to life through virtual visualization.
- We also recommend reading: “How Artificial Intelligence Is Transforming Architecture”
This technology not only provides a detailed view of the project, but also makes it possible to identify and correct potential design issues.
One example of this was the case of an alleyway that was transformed into a usable space thanks to this tool.
The partnership between Studio 4D and the developer JBG Smith, which is leading the project, began four years ago and has accounted for 30% of the company's revenue.
In addition to the Amazon project, Studio 4D has worked on virtual reality projects for the Armani Tower in Miami and City Ridge, a luxury urban development.
- You might also be interested in reading:“The Benefits of BIM: 7 Reasons to Use Building Information Modeling”
Architect Hilario Canessa and his team at Studio 4D continue to expand their reach and work on projects that push the boundaries of virtual visualization in architecture.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27Jpi_lG3UM
This distinguished graduate of the School of Architecture at Universidad ORT Uruguay in Universidad ORT Uruguay an inspiring example of how innovation and technology are transforming the world of architecture.