18—25 Research Studio for Architectural Visualization is a laboratory for the construction of architectural images. Our work is a support tool for designers that allows not only to test light and spatial relations but also to fine-tune chosen materials. In our research on new architectural representation methods we look for alternative paradigms and specific atmospheres. We believe that an image should quickly communicate the character of a certain environment while having the ability to seduce and stay withheld in our memory. Our constructive principles are based on the rules of classic perspective, the canons of proportion, optical guidelines and photographic composition. 18—25 seeks a balance between scientific vision and a dreamlike representation of an atmosphere. The choice between an accurate point of view, the best frame and the most expressive lighting associated with an attention to detail creates 18—25’s reality.

Part of our work is dedicated to research, not only in innovative projects crossing areas such as art or technology, but also in the methodologies of work within the scope of image, computer graphics, or architecture, where each one can propose new paths to explore.

The 18—25 Studio provides specialized and ongoing training to its team, in order to better respond to the diverse needs and methodologies of work, such as photographic composition, programming, or software usage, with a special focus on image creation. Constant updating in the use of new technologies is pursued to enhance the team’s skills and encourage research, aiming to optimize work processes and results.

The 18—25 Studio is a team of architects and designers specialized in the visualization and representation of architecture projects, providing full support to the design team through the entire design process.

1. Rigorous survey of the existing context through three dimensional photogrammetric scan:
   • terrestrial (scan in loco)
   • drone-aided (flight plan previously controlled in the laboratory)
2. Creation of a point cloud to obtain an accurate three dimensional model of the existing context, which allows the exact integration of the new projected model.
3. BIM modeling according to the technical drawings, resulting in an editable and parametrically controllable volumetric model.

From this model and work basis it is possible to:

• rigorously verify views from the project and its integration in the surrounding
• develop specific sections of the project
• make all necessary changes quickly
• frame still images (photographs)
• make consistent and rigorous videos
• develop VR visualization (total simulation of the environment for an immersive experience at full scale, allowing an experience of the space designed very close to the real one – use of specific software and VR glasses)
• develop AR visualization (overlay of an information-layer on what is visible in the reality, allowing to add videos, texts or images over the reality – use of specific software and technological devices such as smartphones or tablets)

Advantages:

• Three-dimensional modeling and real-time preview allows design teams to test architectural solutions, from the earliest stages of creating concepts and ideas, working lighting and space in immediate adaptations and corrections, but also in more advanced design phases, in choosing the construction methods or materials.
• Improvement of the design team performance, not only in the optimization of the architectural project itself but also in the integration and understanding of the different technical installations.
• Enhancement of the communication of the architectural project, expressing clearly the qualities of the project to a wide audience and transmitting the potential of its spatiality and environment, through a careful synthesis and language that seeks to translate the technical complexity of a specialized project.