We're excited to announce the launch of Unisphere AR, an innovative spatial experience at Unisphere, the worlds largest net-zero building. Designed to educate and inspire the next 1000 net-zero buildings, this first-of-its-kind spatial journey brings Unisphere’s cutting-edge features to life, guiding visitors on a data-rich exploration of sustainability, technology, and design. In this perfect blend of technology and purpose, we’re proud to apply our spatial expertise to this remarkable building.
Unisphere
Unisphere is the world's largest net-zero building - a 135,000-square-foot marvel of sustainable architecture. It serves as both a showcase of innovation and a call to action. It's mission is to inspire the creation of 1,000 more zero carbon footprint buildings, however much of its cutting-edge technology is concealed within walls and floors, making it challenging to communicate to visitors. This challenge created the perfect opportunity for spatial technologies to bridge the gap—offering a virtual lens that uncovers and visualizes the intricate systems driving Unisphere’s sustainability.
Spatial Mapping
Using LiDAR scanners, we created a highly accurate spatial map and digital twin of the Unisphere building, achieving centimeter-level precision for aligning virtual content with the physical space. This spatial map serves as the foundation for building immersive experiences. Special effect like the pulsing wireframe outlines create a striking “Holodeck” look, providing both a visually compelling representation and a clear demonstration of how precisely the spatial content aligns with the environment.
Spatial Storytelling
Unisphere AR offers an interactive journey through the building’s innovative features, uncovering the hidden systems that enable its net-zero achievement. Through immersive and educational content, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the building’s inner workings. The experience brings the sophisticated “nerve center” to life, visualizing energy distribution, showcasing how smart windows adapt for optimal heat management, and revealing the underground labyrinth that naturally regulates temperature—all through the power of spatial storytelling.
Intelligent Guide
The custodian and virtual guide of the Unisphere building is Uni, a chatty, pulsating orb eager to share its knowledge with visitors. Within the experience, Uni directs attention and highlights key features in the immersive environment. Its presence in the physical space helps visitors orient themselves and find the best vantage points to fully engage with the content.
The App
Visitors to Unisphere can access the spatial tour directly from their iPhone or Android device. Designed as a self-guided experience, it has been carefully crafted to be intuitive, accessible, and user-friendly—perfect for those engaging with this type of technology for the first time. For those unable to visit Unisphere in person, an At-Home Mode brings Uni to their space, offering a condensed presentation on the building’s mission and groundbreaking innovations. Looking ahead, the tour can evolve to integrate emerging XR headsets like the Apple Vision Pro and the growing array of AR wearables, keeping in pace with the next level of immersive tech.
