Staircases, often viewed as mere functional structures, are being redefined through the innovative approach of Hillside Contracting. By merging parametric architecture, virtual reality (VR), and advanced fabrication techniques, the company is not only elevating industry standards but also enhancing the client experience with immersive, interactive design tools. This fusion of technology and craftsmanship turns stairs into bespoke architectural art pieces that blend seamlessly with their surroundings.
From Traditional Blueprints to Virtual Reality: A New Chapter in Stair Design
Historically, stair design has relied on 2D drawings, blueprints, and static 3D renderings to communicate concepts to clients. While these methods can illustrate basic designs, they often fall short of conveying the full complexity of parametric forms and their relationship to the environment. Hillside Contracting recognized this challenge and took an ambitious step towards integrating virtual reality into their design process.
“We didn’t start out planning to use VR or venture into the coding world,” shares Alex Shynkarou, CEO of Hillside Contracting. “Initially, we were focused on utilizing AI for architectural solutions, especially in developing materials for parametric designs, such as our stairs. However, as our designs grew in complexity, it became clear that traditional 2D renders couldn’t capture the true dynamics of these forms or give clients a sense of how they would function in a space.”
This realization led to the incorporation of VR into their workflow. Hillside Contracting has developed an Android application compatible with the Meta Quest 3 headset, enabling clients to virtually walk through their staircase designs. This step into immersive design allows clients to experience the space with a true sense of scale and proportion, providing an interaction that static drawings simply cannot replicate.
When stairs are designed to fit an existing space, Hillside Contracting uses the Trimble X7 laser scanner to map the environment with pinpoint accuracy. This data is then used to create a highly detailed, digital model that integrates seamlessly into the overall design, ensuring every aspect is tailored to the client’s space and needs before production begins.
Advanced Fabrication: Combining Precision and Sustainability
Once the design has been finalized in the VR environment, Hillside Contracting brings it to life through advanced fabrication techniques. At the heart of this process is the creation of a 3D-printed metal exoskeleton, produced using cutting-edge additive manufacturing. This exoskeleton provides the structural foundation for the staircase, offering superior strength and precision.
To complement the metal framework, Hillside Contracting utilizes an eco-friendly bio-composite material. Applied and finished using a robotic arm, this material ensures that the intricate, parametric shapes of the design are translated flawlessly from the digital model into a physical structure.
This forward-thinking approach sets Hillside Contracting apart from traditional stair manufacturers, who often rely on conventional materials and methods. By embracing advanced technologies and sustainable practices, the company delivers a product that is both visually stunning and environmentally responsible.
Blending Virtual and Physical Worlds: The Future of Stair Design
Hillside Contracting’s process represents more than just a technical innovation; it’s a reimagining of what stairs can be in modern architecture. Through the integration of virtual reality, clients are more involved than ever, with the ability to visualize, explore, and refine their designs before they are built. This unique approach makes staircases not just functional elements but personalized architectural statements.
By merging the virtual with the physical world, Hillside Contracting offers a glimpse into the future of design and construction. Clients can interact with their spaces in a completely new way, while advanced fabrication ensures each staircase is crafted with precision and care. Hillside Contracting is pioneering a shift in how we think about stair design—bringing together sustainability, customization, and immersive technology to create a new standard in architectural craftsmanship.
