A new approach to architectural design using virtual reality (VR) is literally opening optometrists’ eyes to more creative possibilities for practice fit outs.
For Julia Campbell, the owner of Master Specs in Sydney, the ability to ‘see’ and ‘move through’ a proposed store design gave her the confidence to commit to a significant investment in new premises following an extended period of disruption to their business.
It’s pretty crazy, you’re in your space and able to wander through before anything has happened on site
“I was having a great deal of trouble trying to visualise (the plans). We have a workshop that is encased, and I wasn’t too sure about that part of it.
“We had a good time with the VR. I found myself (virtually) walking on tables, not knowing how to get down off benches, because I’d never done that before. It just blows your mind.”
Hard Times
Master Specs was originally located on Sydney’s George Street in the CBD, on the route of the light rail network.
Large delays to the completion of the light rail tracks meant businesses – including Master Specs – suffered huge decreases in foot traffic and accessibility issues. It is estimated some businesses lost up to 70% of their trade because of the controversial project, which ran more than a billion dollars over budget.
“The light rail took about four years for them to build, which really destroyed all the businesses on George St. Then because the light rail had opened, the landlord wanted to put up the rent. We couldn’t afford to pay any more rent while we were still recovering… and then COVID hit.
“We were lucky that we had some compensation from the light rail, but we did whatever we had to, to get through.
“We moved to a different place, then the metro bought that out because it was building a new station – so this is our third shop; we’re back on George St.”
Third Store is a Charm
Master Specs had engaged DB Projects to refresh its store fit out in its first location about eight years ago. Ms Campbell again called on designer and builder David Cameron, who specialises in optical fit outs in the Greater Sydney area, when looking for their current location.
Mr Cameron said while he’s been experimenting with the VR walk throughs himself for some time – Ms Campbell was the first client to virtually experience her concept design before her build.
“I’ve used it a few times since for clients for concept designs. It’s pretty crazy, you’re in your space and able to wander through before anything has happened on site,” he said.
He said the VR walk through was particularly helpful for Master Specs because the retail space had some challenges.
“They said they were looking at this space, but they didn’t like it. They thought it was too small and there was an enormous column in the middle. It’s like 52 square metres so it is very small for retail – they have a lab and an optom room and a pre-test room and obviously the retail space and dispensing area.
“I did a floor plan for them and a concept, and I showed it to them and they said they didn’t like it. Then they put the VR on and walked around and said, ‘Actually, this is perfect’.”
Fresh Start
After such a difficult trading period, Ms Campbell said the business now has a “new lease on life”.
“It’s an amazing feeling to be back and in this gorgeous new store,” she said.
“Everybody who comes in loves this store. It’s welcoming, and has a warm feeling but it is also very brightly lit.
“Going through all the things we went through, our staff were all very close, so it hit them like it hit us. Having this new shop and buying new stock has given us the chance to start afresh and give us the chance to do something we really love again,” she said.
