Arkio is a multi-platform modelling app aimed at architects. People can use it to design objects and buildings in virtual reality, mobile and desktop. The mission of Arkio is to simplify the design process, make it more collaborative, keep it fun and get rid of the constraints associated with overly complicated modellers.
We have been working with Arkio on their brand and user interface for the app for some time now, Arkio is currently in beta but we have reached a point where it’s time to show what we are doing to the rest of the world.
When starting a project like this it’s important to lay the foundation and figure out the core values and mission. What set’s Arkio apart from the rest is it’s focus on utalising the spatial aspect in virtual and augmented reality to simplify the design process. Using that as our focus we can create a product that lives up to Arkio’s values which are Intuitive, Playful, Collaborative and Robust.
The search for a symbol
When designing the logo we kept the mission and values in mind. We wanted to have a simple logo which focused on the design aspect of Arkio. So we kept the logo geometric and referenced the importance of basic shapes which lay the foundation of every design.
The logo represents a house built on a strong foundation, a tip of a pencil and a triangular scale. We like that both the pencil and scale are basic tools which architects have used from the beginning, so it’s a hint at simpler times.
Logo usage
We have already begun working with the logo within our brand and marketing material. We wanted to show you some of the ideas that we had, some have already been implemented but some will be made later.
Visual world
We needed illustrations which we could use to explain the concept of Arkio without showing images directly from the app. We created a set of images to visualise the idea that you can create shapes in a simple and intuitive manner. We use hands to show how simple and human it is to be able to create shapes and designs with the flick of the wrist. It’s easy for us to create different scenarios to illustrate different concepts.
Modelling the props
When creating the props for Arkio we used the same approach to use a simple but at the same time playful style. These props can then be used within Arkio to quickly populate designs.
Simple iconography
Since Arkio is a VR/AR modeller it’s crucial to have simple icons that are easy to read with VR glasses on. It’s also in line with our design philosophy. We knew right from the beginning that we had to create our own icon set since there are many unique commands that we need to explain to users.
Tool Icons
Our main icons are the tool icons. Since they are all related to interacting with a geometric shape in one way or another we decided to use the square as our foundation and design the icons around that.
UI icons
We are not as restricted in style when doing the supplementary icons. But we still keep them simple and in the same geometric style.
Illustrative icons
We also created a third level of icons which we use where we need to be more descriptive in marketing materials. But they are still simple and easy to understand. But now with color.
User interface
Our main focus when designing the user experience and interface was to keep it intuitive but at the same time robust. We want people to be able to do complex task with simple gestures. Below are a few of the key elements that make it work.
The Circle
Our main UI is our circle. It’s a flexible and scalable system where you can access all the tools, settings and panels that you need. It acts as a shortcut system which you can access by a press of a button and disappears when it’s released. You can also keep it stuck in the world and arrange the UI in front of you to access it whenever you need.
Controllers and Bracelet
An extension of our circle menu is the bracelet. It acts as a sub menu for the tools you have selected and you can quickly and easily see which tool is active.
Table and the world
We think it’s important to feel grounded in the space you are in while using virtual reality. That’s why we have a floor with a table that holds your designs. We use the table for UI elements and commands that are related to measurments, size and so on. Here we also keep the table and floor really simple but despcritive enough to give the user a feel of size and ratio, it also hints at the architects tables that people are used to.
Mobile UI
Our thinking is that people will be able to use Arkio on their phone on their way to work and then switch over to the desktop or VR version when they get to work. So it’s important for us to keep consistency in the way you work between these platforms. That’s why we put focus on keeping the UI consistent between platforms.
The big picture
It’s important when doing a project like this to think about the big picture but also pay attention to the details. It’s been crucial for us to stick to our vision and let that vision flow into every element of the product. I hope this post gives you a glimpse into the visual language of Arkio and how powerful the app is, and I encourage you to go to www.arkio.is to see more of what the app has to offer. We look forward to releasing Arkio to the world and see what amazing things you create with it.
