Augmented Feedback

Augmented Reality (AR) has the potential to create a paradigm shift in the production of architecture. This paper discusses the assembly and evaluation of a bamboo prototype installation aided by holographic instructions. The case study is situated within the framework of AR-driven computational design implementation methods that incorporate feedback loops between the as-built and the digital model. The prototype construction aims to contribute to the ongoing international debate on architectural applications of digital technology and computational design tools and on the impact these have on craftsmanship and architecture fabrication. The case study uses AR-aided construction techniques to augment existing bamboo craftsmanship in order to expand its practically feasible design solution space. Participating laypersons were challenged to work at the interface of technology and material culture and engage with both latest AR systems and century-old bamboo craft. This paper reflects on how AR tracking can be used to create a constant feedback loop between as-built installations and digitally designed source models and how this allows for the real-time assessment of design fidelity and deviations. The case study illustrates that this is especially advantageous when working with naturally varying materials, like bamboo, whose properties and behaviour cannot straightforwardly be accurately simulated digitally. The paper concludes by discussing how augmented feedback loops within the fabrication cycle can facilitate real-time refinement of digital simulation tools with the potential to save time, cost, and material. The augmentation of onsite available skills facilitates the democratisation of non-standard architecture design production.