Photorealistic Computer Generated Representations as a Means of Visual Communication of Architectural Schemes in the Contemporary Culture

This paper explores the nature and effects of photorealistic computer generated architectural representations on the perception and understanding of design schemes. The aim is to obtain an insight into potentials and limitations that arise from this form of communication. Findings suggest that by conveying a sense of lifelike presence, these representations enhance the understanding of design. They are also perceived as more realistic, accurate and comprehensible and as such, more effective means of communicating design than hand drawings. However, not all photorealistic styles are perceived as neither lifelike nor credible. Instead, it was evident that these representations enter perceptions through a complex interaction between their attribute and observers familiarity with form and visual literacy. Most importantly, the understanding of design through photorealistic representations is deeply conditioned by the prevailing cultural style of visual representation and knowledge of the preferences of specific professions.