Why?
Environmental data influences our daily lives and future planning but often requires expert knowledge to interpret. Switzerland maintains exceptionally detailed spatial data, yet it remains inaccessible to many communities. This project explores how to change that.

What?
This project places environmental data into the user’s spatial context. By overlaying data onto physical environments, it taps into natural spatial thinking and intuition. Using a VR headset, users can explore environmental scenarios in an engaging, accessible way.

How?
Environmental data is often reduced to numbers, losing needed spatial context. This project restores it through simulations such as runoff and soil infiltration to reveal how different variables shape outcomes, a method Sofia defines in her thesis as spatially intuitive communication.

For whom?
Designed for local communities and citizens engaged in conversations about their environment.
Shared understanding between experts and non-experts is fundamental. This project uses mixed reality to help bridge gaps and foster common ground among all stakeholders.

Impact
This prototype makes complex spatial data intuitive and approachable. It encourages greater public engagement with environmental information—essential when informed participation is more important than ever.

Thesis