Design Methodology: From the Interpretation of Portuguese Interior Design Projects Through Virtual Reality

Abstract

This article discusses a design methodology’s model to interpret Portuguese historic interior design spaces from the project’s definition to its recreation in Virtual Reality. This methodology is based upon 5 phases: Project Definition; Data Collection; Data Processing and Analysis; 3D Space and Virtual Space. As this investigation intends to interpret interior design and architecture projects, hermeneutics appears as the elected framework for the design methodology presented in this study. The hermeneutical design interpretation enhances to understand the project’s collected data and its context till the application in the three-dimensional modelling of the space and consequently how its recreation occurs in the virtual space. This methodology is intended to be replicated in other historical interior spaces, even those that are no longer physically available. In this sense, the study is aligned with the Digital Era challenges and the opportunities within contemporary paradigms. This research interacts with Digital contents as a channel to learn and to preserve knowledge and cultural heritage.