Interior Design Students Reimagine the Future of Extended Reality Spaces in Collaboration with StudioLab xR and New Media Manitoba
Fourth-year students in the Department of Interior Design’s Interior Environments studio, led by Jason Shields and Heather Wallis, recently concluded an innovative term-long project. The students collaborated with New Media Manitoba’s StudioLab xR to envision expanded facilities for the cutting-edge extended reality (xR) hub.
StudioLab xR, located at 201 Portage Avenue, is a significant component of New Media Manitoba’s contribution to the Province’s technology and innovation landscape. The mandate of this 5,550 sq ft facility is to support workforce development and innovation in the emerging field of Extended Reality (xR). StudioLab xR’s virtual production stage provides the advanced technology and expertise that production companies and filmmakers require to realize their creative visions. Furthermore, it is recognized as an Unreal Authorized Training Center. This partnership with Unreal Engine highlights StudioLab xR’s commitment to delivering top-tier training in the xR field.
“Offering a studio where students engage with emerging environments and technologies while also working directly with a client, provides an invaluable opportunity. This experience is particularly beneficial for students nearing the completion of their undergraduate degrees and preparing to enter the workforce.”
Jason Shields, Assistant Professor – Studio Lead
The academic project required students to develop designs for a hypothetical relocation of StudioLab xR to 200 Princess Avenue, which would double the operational footprint. Students investigated the specialized requirements of Visual Effects (VFX) production environments, editing suites, and Unreal Engine training facilities. This involved rigorous research, analysis, spatial programming, and design development to propose engaging and functional new environments.
“This project confirmed how participatory design is such an important part in the entire design process. There were many new things that us students learned throughout this project that we might not have known if it wasn’t for direct communication with StudioLab xR. As designers we have the knowledge of space planning and development, and they have the knowledge of the technical requirements that come with the equipment that they use on a regular basis. Working cohesively together we could ensure all requests were met and exceeded in a strong design proposal at the end of the term” – Hayley Harvey, Undergraduate Student
Jonathon Lê, StudioLab xR’s Senior Manager, collaborated closely with the students, providing guidance through the initial project kick-off, programming, and planning phases. This interaction allowed students to engage directly with client considerations within an emerging industry sector.
Working with the University of Manitoba on re-imaginations of StudioLab xR was an incredible experience. Each student’s unique creative visions came to life and was fully integrated with the working realities of our facility highlighting one of core mandates – leveraging the power of 3D visualization. From concept, design and rationale, the collaboration brought a forward-thinking approach, helping us envision bold new possibilities for our space.” – Jonathon Lê, Senior Manager – StudioLab xR.
Final presentations were held over four sessions on April 8th and 9th within StudioLab xR’s facility at 201 Portage Avenue. Students presented their comprehensive design proposals utilizing their 24′ x 11′ LED volume wall, showcasing detailed presentation drawings, 3D renderings, and video walkthroughs.
“Throughout my degree, I have worked on numerous projects with simulated clients, often presenting them to professors. Having the opportunity to present our ideas to a real client in their space was incredibly exciting, offering the class a glimpse into the professional world of interior design. We gained valuable experience learning how to communicate design ideas clearly, translating our design language into something our clients can easily understand. Presenting on StudioLab xR’s 22′ x 11′ LED wall was a highlight, as well as their enthusiasm for our work, which made the experience more rewarding” – Andie Margolis, Undergraduate Student.
This format enabled students to receive valuable insight and feedback directly from StudioLab xR Senior Manager, Jonathon Lê; New Media Manitoba’s Executive Director, Louie Ghiz, and Director of Operations, Taralee Turner; as well as attending industry professionals; and faculty members from the Faculty of Architecture.
Overall, the project provided students with invaluable experience in designing for complex, specialized technological environments. They benefited from direct engagement with an industry client and gained practice in developing and presenting professional-level design proposals tailored to an emerging sector.
“Observing the students’ growth throughout this project has been incredibly rewarding. Their dedication, creativity, and problem-solving abilities have significantly evolved, driven by the opportunity to collaborate with a real client. This emerging typology was uncharted territory for many, requiring them to rely heavily on both the client and their research to inform their planning and design decisions. As a result, they not only refined their technical skills but also strengthened their communication and collaboration abilities.” Heather Wallis, Instructor.
The Department of Interior Design extends its appreciation to StudioLab xR and New Media Manitoba for this valuable collaborative opportunity and thanks all industry guests and faculty members who contributed their time and expertise to the student reviews.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
Shelly Slobodzian (LM Architectural Group / Environmental Space Planning – Principal)
Thomas Langrell (Republic Architecture – Design Lead)
Laney Stewart (PIDIM – Executive Director)
Milan Code (Stantec – Interior Designer)
Jonathon Lê (StudioLab xR – Senior Manager)
Louie Ghiz (New Media Manitoba – Executive Director)
Taralee Turner (New Media Manitoba – Director of Operations)
Stacey Pediny (Teknion – PIDIM Industry Partner)
Jon Watts (University of Manitoba – FABLAB)
Ainsley Johnston (University of Manitoba – Environmental Design)
Raphael Ayambire (University of Manitoba – City Planning)
Umid Abdullaev (University of Manitoba – Interior Design)
Yuhao Lu (University of Manitoba – Landscape Architecture)
Tessa Horn (University of Manitoba – Teaching Assistant)
Danae McKennitt (University of Manitoba – Teaching Assistant)