# VR Architectural Design Tools The 'ICE 3D' Software Helps Clients Explore Construction Projects By Katherine Pendrill | Published 2016-04-20 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ice-3d References: [psfk](http://www.psfk.com/2016/04/how-vr-can-revolutionize-home-building.html) & [dirtt.net](https://www.dirtt.net/ice) 'DIRRT' recently designed a proprietary software called '[ICE](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/panasonic-sdpmc100) 3D' that uses [VR technology](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chop-reality) to help clients get a better idea of what a new building will look like before construction has begun. While VR is already being used for a wide variety of applications, this software demonstrates how the technology may soon change the face of architecture. ICE 3D is a new type of architectural design software that is compatible with the [Oculus](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/emirates-vr-experience) headset. Using the software, clients can virtually walk through a future space and see exactly what the final project will look like. The simulation also gives clients the power to swap certain materials or change dimensions to better suit their preferences. The cost of these changes is then calculated in real time to help clients stay on budget. Not only does the technology give clients a better understanding of what they are building, but it may also eliminate any design misinterpretations that could waste precious funds and materials. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.2/10 - Popularity: 75% | Activity: 72% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Virtual Reality (VR) in Architecture:** Opportunity for architects to leverage VR technology to offer clients a more immersive and accurate visualization of future construction projects. - **Real-time Design Simulations:** Potential for software tools that allow clients to make changes and see the cost implications in real time, improving collaboration and efficiency in architectural design. - **Cost Optimization in Construction:** Opportunity to use VR software to calculate costs in real time, helping clients make informed decisions to stay within budget and reduce material waste. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Architecture:** Architects can adopt VR technology to enhance their design process, provide more accurate visualizations, and optimize cost management. - **Construction:** The construction industry can benefit from VR architectural design tools to streamline project planning, improve collaboration between stakeholders, and reduce errors. - **Software Development:** Opportunity for software developers to create innovative VR solutions specifically tailored for architectural design and simulation, meeting the growing demand in the industry. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [VR Home Design Platforms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/envisioneer.md) - [3D-Rendering VR Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/prospect-irisvr.md) - [AR Apartment Platforms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/3d-apartment.md) - [Interior Visualization Tools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/room-interior-design.md) - [Interior Visualization Tools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ai-home-render.md) - [AR-Powered Home Renovations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/houzz-pro.md) - [VR-Powered Design Platforms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mondan.md) - [AI Interior Design Tools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/newroomio.md) - [3D Object Building Tools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/realityblu.md)