Building and design professionals now have access to an immersive way to view and present 3D building models in virtual reality, thanks to the launch of SketchUp Viewer for a variety of Meta’s VR products. The new software from Trimble enables interior designers, architects, engineers, and construction (AEC) professionals using a Quest VR headset to engage colleagues and clients in experiential design reviews for more informed decision-making and collaboration on the go, in the office, or on site.
In contrast to traditional architectural drawings that may be difficult for clients to understand, VR enables architects and designers to showcase their designs and convey design intent by enabling the client walkthrough and experience the design in a true-to-scale environment. SketchUp Viewer for Quest helps improve communication and collaboration with colleagues and clients and is ideal for both technical and non-technical users. It makes it possible to iterate faster on designs, spot and avoid costly errors and explore ideas in real time without the need for complex controls or powerful desktop machines.
Chris Cronin, vice president and general manager of Trimble SketchUp, noted:
“Meta has been at the forefront of growing VR adoption by making the technology easy to use, accessible and affordable. Collaborating with Meta to create SketchUp Viewer for Meta Quest is an important milestone toward making it easier for design and AEC professionals to tap into the power of VR as a rich, immersive way to experience, share and collaborate on SketchUp models.”
In addition to standard tools native to the platform, SketchUp Viewer for Quest includes features such as tabletop and presentation modes that offer architects and designers multiple ways to present their designs. With tabletop mode, users can walk around the SketchUp model and view the design as a virtual scale model. Presentation mode can be used to curate a client’s virtual walkthrough, complete with a simple user interface and easy-to-use controls.
“We’re already seeing the value of virtual reality in architecture and design, whether it’s exploring ideas, solving problems or showcasing designs in the best possible light,” said Jamie Keane, director of Product Management at Meta in a press release. “We believe the combination of SketchUp and Meta Quest will create new opportunities for connection and collaboration.”
SketchUp Viewer for Quest is a free application available to all users and is compatible with Meta Quest 2, Meta Quest Pro and Meta Quest 3.
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