University District
We’ve been working with these folks since the community’s inception 7 years ago, so when they came to us with a request to create something rarely done before, we were quick to hop on the wagon. Their team wanted something that would become a centerpiece of the Discovery Centre–something that would allow them to not only connect with all of their builders, but allow users to visit show suites, learn about the neighborhood’s sustainable design, and connect with community experts. The result is truly a hybrid between an architectural model and an interactive media wall. The display consists of eight commercial grade monitors, multiple computers, a custom designed model table and media wall surround (which includes wood harvested from the site), 52 synchronized CG animations and a custom app to control it all through an iPad.
Developer
University of Calgary Properties Group Ltd.
Home Builders
Homes By Avi
Rohit Communities
Gracorp Properties
Brookfield Residential
Truman
The Brenda Strafford Foundation
Jayman Built
Collaboration
Carvel Creative
Mark Gervais Illustration & Animation
Website
www.myuniversitydistrict.ca
It’s a beautifully intuitive blend of analog and digital formats - and it’s this nod to old and new architectural visualization that landed us an Ember Award for Innovation as well as a nomination in the 2017 International Architectural 3D Awards.
It displays four main community categories — residential living, public spaces, site amenities and site connectivity. When a user drills down to find a specific development or community feature, the table highlights the location below the corresponding scale model on the living map, along with any relevant info. The viewer is then directed to the media wall where CG animations will play, visualizing the future state of the community.
A key feature of the display is that it will change with the community as it grows - new CG animations of each development will be added along the way so that visitors will always be in the know.
Based on the success of the display, in 2020 the University of Calgary Properties Group asked us to create an interactive retail touchscreen which allows both the public and the commercial leasing team a way to see where retailers are currently located, where future retailers will be located and what commercial bays are available for leasing. The interactive application has become an integral piece in their marketing and can be updated remotely by our team to be sure it is always current for viewers and the leasing team.
This team certainly held space for our team to get creative and design visualizations that went beyond, and we’re happy to report that they have earned themselves the 2022 Best Growing Community award from the Canadian Home Builders’ Association, Best Existing Community from BILD Alberta as well as Best Community Feature from BILD Alberta, and their first Pinnacle Award.
R&D and Install
Kind words from the client
“Over the years, The Rapid Eye Movement has consistently demonstrated their commitment to innovation and responsiveness, delivering exceptional results that have greatly benefited our business.
One of the standout features that The REM has created for us is a one-of-a-kind interactive model table and media wall. This incredible tool has allowed us to showcase our new community development for University District in an engaging and captivating manner. The interactive elements have proven to be a powerful selling tool, capturing the attention and imagination of our clients and stakeholders. Furthermore, The REM has also developed a customized interactive retail media wall, which has been instrumental in showcasing our retail main street and available commercial real estate for lease. This unique feature has helped us differentiate ourselves from our industry peers and effectively communicate the potential of our properties to prospective tenants and investors.
Throughout our collaboration, The REM has consistently demonstrated their expertise, professionalism, and dedication. They have shown a deep understanding of our vision and requirements, translating them into visually stunning and immersive experiences. Their attention to detail and commitment to delivering high-quality work have made the entire process seamless and enjoyable.
Their innovative approach, coupled with their responsive and talented team, makes them the ideal choice for any project requiring top-notch visualization capabilities. Thank you, Ryan, Daniel, and the entire team at The Rapid Eye Movement, for your exceptional work and for helping us bring our community development to life.”
Maureen Henderson
Vice President, Community Experience
University of Calgary Properties Group