Old School Meets New: Low-Tech Tools for High Tech Architecture

In the digitized realm of modern architecture, a unique blend of traditional low-tech tools and new-age high-tech gadgets is unfolding. Advances in AI and other technologies have empowered simpler, cost-effective tools to serve greater purposes, paving the way for small start-ups with limited resources to compete with larger, more established firms in the architectural arena. While larger firms often have a more entrenched brand image, agile and adaptable architecture start-ups are perfectly poised to adopt emerging tools and innovative ways of thinking.

Why Go Low Tech?

In a profession known for its precision, clarity, and keen eye for detail, the tactile experience provided by low-tech tools often leads to a deeper understanding of the project at hand. The direct interaction with materials, understanding spatial relationships, and the inherent physicality is something that digital tools sometimes fail to emulate. While there's no advocacy for reverting solely to pen and paper, the charm and simplicity of low-tech tools present undeniable advantages in certain aspects of the design and documentation process.

Comparing Tools: Why Low Tech Sometimes Trumps High Tech

High-tech tools like advanced 3D scanning equipment offer a level of precision and detail that is unparalleled. However, they often come with a hefty price tag and less portability. These tools, albeit powerful, require a significant investment and aren’t as user-friendly or portable as simpler consumer-grade electronics. For example: smartphones with LiDAR scanning or digital SLR cameras in conjunction with photogrammetry software or cameras with a 360-degree field of view.

One such ‘simpler’ tool that Studio-T has been experimenting with is the Insta360 camera. The balance of cost, ease of use, and portability makes the combination of Insta360 camera and the Matterport app a more attractive proposition for many architects, especially those in start-ups or smaller firms. In our testing, we found the portability and ease of use of this setup to be particularly useful in a variety of situations. Additionally, we found that having one device that can fulfil multiple functions adds a great deal more value to your purchase.

Alternative DIY Options for Those on a Budget

If you are cash strapped for any kind of tech at the moment but still want to get started, it is worth noting that there are some alternatives worth mentioning. If you have a smartphone that can take good quality photos and videos or you have a decent SLR camera already, you can use these devices to take photos and generate usable models. Albeit it takes a bit of know-how and some additional time, but with a little skill and the right selection of photos, you can generate decent point clouds and mesh geometry.

In our testing, we found the Reality Capture desktop application to be a particularly robust and powerful tool for photogrammetry (check out the link below for more information). The photos that are taken need to be of decent quality and have a decent overlap with the previous and successive photos for best results - this does take time. Also, the accuracy of the information generated may not be adequate in some situations. For example, as-built documentation where built accuracy is required. However, the information is quite useful in capturing the overall look and feel of a space for 3D visualization purposes. Furthermore, this workflow could be used in conjunction with low-tech measuring tape, pencil, and paper approaches to improve the fidelity and accuracy of detail in architectural drawings and save you from successive return visits.

If you have the latest iPad Pro or an iPhone 12 Pro and above, you can check out our segment on iPad LiDAR scanning here: [link] . You can also find some good deals on iPads in the link below.

Wrapping Up: A Fusion Worth Exploring

The interplay between low-tech and high-tech tools is reshaping the architectural landscape, offering a spectrum of possibilities. As the industry evolves, adapting to these diverse tools can catalyse innovative approaches, paving the way for a more flexible and resourceful architectural practice. The Insta360 camera stands as a prime example of this shift, demonstrating how modern tech can seamlessly integrate with traditional practices, offering architects a versatile tool that fosters efficiency and creative exploration.

Checkout the Insta360 One X3 camera here : https://amzn.to/3tSh5Dz (paid link)

Signup for Matterport here: https://matterport.com/

Checkout Reality Capture here: https://www.capturingreality.com/

Good deals on Ipad Pro's with Lidar : https://amzn.to/3FHxkpW (paid link)