Low-Fidelity vs. High-Fidelity Spatial Design in Virtual Reality for Non-professionals

In spatial design, non-professionals lack effective hands-on opportunities to participate in the design process. Although VR platforms can support spatial design with immersive interaction, existing tools simply provide high-fidelity 3D objects for users to choose and place around. Low-fidelity design approach is rarely supported, nor investigated in this context. In this work, we present a user study comparing low-fidelity and high-fidelity spatial design in VR. Eighteen participants were recruited to use both versions of a prototype with varied geometric fidelity to complete home designs. Their design outcome and intent was evaluated by professional designers. Our findings show, the low-fidelity version allowed participants to think more openly and creatively, leading to a more holistic expression of their design intent and needs, while the high-fidelity version promoted users’ thinking of realistic scenarios. We discuss the design implications and how they can be combined in co-design activities.