On the horizon there is an intersection of physical spaces enhanced by digital means. With the development of alternative realities, coined as Mixed Reality (MR), it is not a stretch of the imagination to confirm that the way we do architecture will change - fundamentally. With the ability of digital environments to be overlaid on the existing world, it can completely alter a space with little effort instantaneously. By utilizing robotic architectural elements in conjunction with Mixed Reality environments, Blu(r)eality does not need to depend on the hand of the designer. The endless possibilities of user imagination allows architecture to be freed from the constraints of this world.

This project is located in Tokyo, the most technologically advanced city on Earth. The Japanese people are often introduced to new gadgets and are comfortable inserting them into their lifestyle. Introducing our futuristic architectural concept will not only be an advancement of technology but can simultaneously connect society to a more traditional and conservative way of life indicative of rural Japan. Mixed Reality in conjunction with responsive architecture can bring these two disparate worlds together. Blu (r)eality is a siteless piece of architecture, for as the technology starts to spread throughout other advanced cities it will seamlessly meld into our lives.

By designing an extremely efficient blank space, we can impose whatever program people need at a specific time. Therefore, why we should build anything at all if Mixed Reality can stretch these possibilities to another level? Through a flexible approach to design that can provide the sustainable idea of saving material and time of construction, Vertical Reality is an urban intervention at the meeting point of Mixed Reality and robotic architecture. It allows the spaces to be used for different purposes and needs. Rem Koolhaas addressed the notion that programmatic adjacencies are arbitrary in the modern skyscraper.

Blu reality, together with Mixed Reality adds another level of depth to the experience utilizing virtual alterations on physical elements. It has an efficient design that is able to use a plethora of programs. Utilizing a completely flexible structure and a mold-able interior it can adapt to whatever creation is needed. With the technology provided by Mixed Reality, a combination between visual graphic and a tactile dreamscape can be achieved. Due to its abilities to conform to whatever shape and form, the skyscraper can function as anything from an office to a park. For example, exhibitions can be completely adapted to a specific artist's needs and wishes. For the first time, one can actually enter the mind of an artist as a physical space.

The building itself consists of an interchangeable structural system, a morphing interior and an adaptable outer skin. With a completely flexible structure and a moldable interior it can adapt to whatever creation is needed. Automation utilized through robots arranging the floors, walls, and textures allows for complete customization of physical space by the user. The physical properties of the space is altered through hydraulic walls, floors, and shading devices. The ETFE flexible skin allows the space to be stretched, creating a simultaneously elegant and glitching façade of the building. The main core of the building tied to the skin structure allows the building to be rigid and adapt its interior form accordingly.

Team Members:

Gabriela Alvergue

Willy Cao

Brook Davis II

Joao Freitas

Kirt Hilker

Styrbjorn Torell

Jesme Zhang