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AR and VR: Transforming Buildings Through Extended Reality

25.02.2025

The digitalization of buildings is entering a new era thanks to Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR). These technologies are fundamentally redefining how we design, manage, and optimize spaces. For professionals in construction and smart buildings, AR and VR are no longer futuristic concepts, but practical tools offering tangible benefits and significant return on investment.

The AR/VR market for smart buildings is growing rapidly. According to the "Extended Reality Market" report by MarketsandMarkets, the global extended reality market is expected to grow from $24.42 billion in 2024 to $84.86 billion by 2029, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 28.3%. Another forecast by Fortune Business Insights estimates the market will reach $1,706.96 billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 32.1%.

While there is no specific data for the DACH region or Switzerland in the construction sector, the European market as a whole shows increasing adoption of AR/VR technologies, driven by demand for innovative solutions and a growing focus on sustainability.

The use of AR and VR continues to rise: according to Statista, the global market for augmented and virtual reality is steadily expanding and impacting industries such as construction and real estate. Although there is no specific data on usage among architects, many companies have already implemented these technologies into their workflows.

AR and VR in Practice: High-Value Applications

The use of AR and VR in smart buildings offers tangible benefits in terms of efficiency, safety, and user experience:

Reduction of project and construction costs: AR/VR enables more accurate verification of 3D models, minimizing design errors and improving team coordination. Industry-specific studies show significant cost reductions thanks to improved planning. In architecture, these tools allow for much better client assessment of properties, including virtual walkthroughs.

Optimized maintenance: AR enables real-time overlay of digital information onto physical equipment, facilitating rapid diagnostics, reducing downtime, and enabling targeted preventive interventions.

Training and safety: virtual simulations allow personnel to train on complex procedures without disrupting ongoing operations, increasing safety and operational efficiency.

Enhanced user experience: VR enables virtual building tours, while AR allows users to interact directly with their environment (e.g., controlling lighting or temperature via app). In smart offices, AR can guide visitors to meeting rooms, enhancing both experience and efficiency.

Economic and Qualitative Benefits of AR/VR Integration

Integrating AR and VR into smart buildings brings strategic advantages:

Operational efficiency: AR-based predictive maintenance reduces operating costs, while VR accelerates planning and enables faster return on investment.

Increased property value: buildings equipped with immersive technologies can justify higher rental prices due to improved efficiency and enhanced appeal to users.

Optimized user experience: intuitive, customizable environments boost satisfaction, encourage tenant retention, and reduce vacancy rates.

Sustainability: AR/VR usage enables energy optimization, lowering consumption and contributing to ESG goal achievement.

Competitive edge: projects incorporating immersive technologies stand out in the market and position companies as innovation leaders.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

The use of AR/VR technologies represents a strategic lever to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service quality in smart buildings. The tangible benefits in process optimization, sustainability, and user experience make these technologies a smart and future-proof investment.