Evolution: from Projection Mapping to Immersive Rooms

At Onionlab, we have been at the forefront of this technology, adapting and evolving our techniques to create impactful visual experiences. In this blog, we will explain how 3D mapping has evolved and integrated into immersive rooms, highlighting our own adaptations and the technological advancements that are making a difference in this industry.

3D mapping has come a long way since its inception, with significant advances in hardware and software that allow for more detailed and realistic projections.

Today, we use cutting-edge technologies such as high-definition projectors and specialized software that enable us to map complex surfaces with precision.

These tools not only enhance the visual quality of our installations but also allow us to create more immersive and enveloping experiences for the viewer, as we did with our recent piece Blau for the America’s Cup in Barcelona.

The impact of projections on the perception of space is remarkable. This technology allows for the transformation of any surface, from building facades to interior rooms, into dynamic canvases that tell visual stories.

At Onionlab, we have taken this technique a step further by adapting it to immersive rooms, creating environments where viewers can experience the content in a different way and, in some cases, interact with the visual content thanks to our Oninoff software.

The development of a project like this involves several key stages, from conceptualization to execution. Our interdisciplinary team collaborates closely to design and develop content that is not only visually impressive but also offers an interactive and participatory experience. We use tools like Unity, Unreal, and TouchDesigner to create content that perfectly fits the space and the movement of the viewers.

Anticipating the growing interest in immersive technologies, we decided to adapt two of our most notable video mappings, “Climate” and “Paradoxa,” to the immersive format. These adaptations not only allowed viewers to experience the content in a completely new way but also demonstrated the versatility of 3D mapping in different contexts.

This adaptation to immersive rooms revealed multiple benefits, including greater viewer engagement and a more memorable experience. Projections in immersive spaces allow visitors to become an active part of the work. This not only enriches the user experience but also opens new possibilities for practical applications in museums, events, and exhibitions.

Like any advanced technology, immersive spaces present technical and creative challenges. These include the need for powerful hardware, precise projector calibration, and real-time content synchronization. At Onionlab, we have developed innovative solutions to overcome these challenges, ensuring that our installations run smoothly and provide an optimal experience for viewers.

The future of immersive rooms is promising, with emerging trends pointing to greater integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning. These technologies will enable even more personalized and dynamic experiences, adapting in real-time to the actions and preferences of users. In our piece Esclat for the White Rabbit Museum in Barcelona, we applied a combination of audiovisual creation technologies with AI to reinterpret elements of Catalan culture and geography.

Immersive spaces are revolutionizing the way we perceive and experience digital art. With constant technological advances and a focus on interactivity and viewer participation, this technique will continue to be an integral part of Onionlab’s future creations.