Metaneum – A platform for Architects, by Architects in the Metaverse | Design Thesis on Digital Architecture

Site Context

The ideal platform for hosting the Metanaeum was chosen through a selection process. A SWOC analysis was carried out to identify and assess five possible platforms. These platforms included Blocktopia, Pixelynx, Upland, Big Time, and Decentraland. To make an informed choice, an in-depth analysis of each platform’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges was conducted during this process. 

Several criteria were applied to analyze the Decentraland platform. First off, every 16 by 16-meter LAND parcel is uniquely identified by its coordinates. Factors such as orientation, climate, weather, and proximity to other buildings or landmarks were also considered. Although Decentraland lacks a physical climate, it does have certain environmental factors that may influence building design. The site offers a more engaging experience, but it is also more likely to experience lag or increased traffic.

Decentraland is a flat, grid-based world with its own set of rules and regulations. For instance, setbacks must be at least one metre from the parcel’s edge, and building height is restricted to 10 stories or 35 metres. Building materials have static textures. Accessibility and circulation are addressed through the use of avatars by users, as well as the intuitive and simple design of pathways, entrances, and exits. The surroundings of Decentraland are dynamic and ever-changing, with nearby structures and sites contributing to the overall scene. 

The parcel has a total site area of 5 acres or roughly 80 16-by-16-meter pixels on Decentraland (DL). The location is in the Voltaire Art District, with coordinates 48, 76. Sotheby’s House, which occupies 0.5 acres or 8 parcels on DL, is a nearby building and a useful point of reference. The property is oriented north-south.

Decentraland has its own set of rules and regulations regarding building height, setbacks, and materials. The property is surrounded by underdeveloped and vacant land, a road, and nearby structures like Galeria Sur, as well as notable locations like the Voltaire Art District and Plaza. Decentraland is a dynamic, ever-evolving environment with lots of opportunities for growth and investment.

Design Process

The primary, secondary, tertiary, and ancillary categories are used to group various functional spaces and the areas that correspond with them in a building complex. The primary areas are areas for collaboration and communication, areas for real-time testing and simulation, and areas that can be customized. Transitional/viewing spaces, learning and development areas, and innovation spaces are examples of secondary spaces. Tertiary spaces consist of galleries, public showcase areas, incubator spaces, and networking spaces. 

Ancillary spaces include circulation, accounts, and technology. Developing a functional programme for the Metanaeum entails defining the areas and functions needed to achieve the intended goals. This was made possible by the area statement table, which distributed space among various functions according to their significance and priority. 

An adjacency matrix that mapped the relationships and interconnectivity between various spaces was created after a preliminary programme network was created in order to create a programme that was both cohesive and efficient. Next, in order to maximize functionality and user experience, user and programmatic networks were developed. Scale and dimensionality analyses were done to make sure the design was balanced and effective, and the programme was vertically and horizontally stratified to satisfy operational and functional requirements.

Final Outcome

With the advent of cutting-edge technologies like blockchain, AI, and the metaverse, the Metanaeum is envisioned as a virtual institutional research and development space. The programme is unique because of its placement within the metaverse, which eliminates the need for traditional functions. At the Metanaeum, all major planning is done by users, or architects, with the aim of democratizing architecture. Users control a significant portion of the programme network.

The site plan is transformative, reflecting the importance of adaptability and flexibility in design. The Metanaeum encourages a deeper understanding of the cyclical nature of life and the interconnectedness of all things by transforming the site to reflect the changing seasons. Built to empower and inspire architects of all ages and backgrounds, the Metanaeum is an absolute architectural masterpiece overall. It embodies an innovative take on design and space that emphasizes creativity, collaboration, and exploration.

The Metanaeum seeks to build a contemporary meta-agora that centers on social interactions by drawing inspiration from the past when designing for the future. Architects could witness the creative process of others’ work through viewing tunnels and specialized break-out spaces that facilitate engagement, idea sharing, and the development of relationships. All interactions and learnings would be consolidated into the meta-agora, creating a focal point inside the Metanaeum.

This platform aims to provide architects with a virtual workspace where they can experiment with their ideas in real time, unleash their creativity, and make money by displaying their work to potential clients and the general public. There will be gallery spaces, congregation spaces, and testing spaces on the platform.

Iconic Architectural Identity: The distinctive architectural identity of Metanaeum, which symbolizes its inventive and futuristic character in the metaverse, is created by the combination of an organic staggered mass, a prominent helical structure, and floating plates.

Spatial Hierarchy: The composition of the form establishes a distinct spatial hierarchy, in keeping with Metanaeum’s exploration and discovery concept. The large helical structure serves as a central focal point, while the staggered mass and floating plates provide diverse spatial experiences and functional zones.

Seamless Integration with the Metaverse: Metanaeum’s objective of bridging the gap between the physical and virtual realms is reflected in the form’s dynamic and visually striking elements that blend in seamlessly with the metaverse’s digital surroundings.

Organic Connectivity: The helical structure, floating plates, and organic staggered mass at the bottom create an organic sense of connectivity that represents the interconnectedness of ideas, teamwork, and creativity within the architectural community.

Vertical Movement and Circulation: A sense of exploration and adventure is created within the virtual world by the helical structure and floating plates, which provide special vertical movement and circulation paths that let users ascend and descend through Metanaeum.

Adaptive Functionality: The staggered mass, helical structure, and floating plates of the chosen form offer adaptable spaces that can accommodate shifting programmatic needs and technological advancements, allowing for flexibility in adaptation and future growth.

Integration of Digital Technology: The composition of the form makes it ideal for the incorporation of digital technology, such as projection mapping, augmented reality displays, and interactive screens, which further improve the immersive environment and interaction inside Metanaeum.

Symbolic Representation: The harmonious fusion of art, technology, and architecture is symbolized by the combination of organic forms, helical structures, and floating plates. This represents Metanaeum’s vision of a dynamic, transformative, and boundary-pushing platform in the metaverse.

Conclusion: The Metanaeum is a unique, creative structure meant to foster creativity, imagination, and exploration. It combines constant and variable elements into a harmonious whole with its helical variable structures and organic stacked form, providing several areas for testing, exploration, and conceptualization. With easy access and clear navigation, its design offers an inviting and engaging experience.

[This Academic Project has been published with text submitted by the student]