Development of a Virtual Reality Prototype for Architectural Visualisation with the Integration of Dynamic Electroencephalogram in the Creative Thinking Process

This project focuses on the exploration of an architectural visualisation virtual reality (VR) prototyping and creative thinking process with the use of consumer accessible electroencephalogram (EEG). Architectural visualisation with engaging interactive user experience is an area which requires careful considerations during the design and construction process of the VR content, which aims to promote intuitive exploration of the simulated virtual environment. This study involves the collaboration between several architecture designers and virtual reality researchers, which forms a multidisciplinary research looking at the investigation of EEG impact for architectural visualisation content creation - autoethnography prompted a self-reflective approach to building knowledge during the research and construction phase, ensuing personal growth by the conclusion of the project. VR can be a powerful form of communication for informational materials, visually, only if content can be made easily accessible; this makes digital travel to unique locations easier for the presentation of architectural aspects to the general audience for the purpose of encouraging movement in the virtual space. Consumer grade EEG devices are now commonly available for the purpose of medication, mindfulness, and stress management; therefore, we explore the possibility of using such a device as a dynamic/real-time self-reflection tool for a designer during a creation process of crafting the virtual environment for architectural visualisation. In this research we describe the case study, a practice-based creative prototype, initial EEG data and documentation, and the directions for future work.