Design Zurich

The VR version with interaction performed best. The combination of “immersion” in the virtual world and the opportunity to actively make changes oneself proved particularly effective, significantly increasing both interest and positive attitudes toward sustainable urban development more than the traditional formats.

The findings from this study were used to adapt the VR experience for a planned redesign in Zurich and test it with the population. Here, too, the experience was well received and was found to strengthen motivation to participate.

The VR experience is ready to be used in specific projects. It should be noted that adjustments to the 3D model are necessary for this, which in turn entails costs. In addition, due to the necessary VR glasses, its use is only possible in guided events and does not allow for participation independent of time and location. Regardless of this, the project demonstrates the advantages and potential of VR as a complementary medium in participatory urban development.

"Design Your City" is a research project that tests new ways of communicating sustainable urban development with the aim of raising awareness among the population and motivating them to get involved.

To this end, a virtual reality (VR) experience has been developed that vividly and interactively shows what sustainable urban development can look like. Users take on the role of an urban planner and can redesign the virtual space, for example by planting trees, adding bike paths, or building playgrounds. The story and content of Design Your City were developed in collaboration with the knowledge communication agency catta GmbH.

A total of four versions of the experience were created:

• VR with interaction
• VR without interaction (movie only)
• Desktop version with interaction
• Desktop version without interaction (movie only)

These versions were tested at four schools in the canton of Zurich. The study examined how well they convey knowledge, spark interest, and encourage willingness to participate in urban design processes.