Augmented Reality for Community-based Collaborative Design: A Case Study of RWTH Aachen University Campus Transformation

Master’s thesis by ​​Liyuan Ma

Supervised by:
Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Christa Reicher
Prof. Dr. Bige Tunçer

Advisored by:
​Dr.ir. Ceren Sezer

Keywords:
Augmented reality, Collaborative design, Campus transformation, Public space, Digitalization

Thesis Abstract

Augmented Reality (AR) offers strong potential as a participatory tool in urban design by enabling real-time, 1:1 visualization of 3D proposals on mobile devices. Addressing the challenge of fostering effective participation, this thesis examines how mobile AR can improve understanding and motivation in collaborative urban transformation. University campuses and students form the focus, using RWTH Aachen University in Germany as a case study. The research investigates AR’s ability to visualize campus design proposals, communicate sustainability concepts, and stimulate student-driven engagement, compared with conventional renderings.

The study applies Arnstein’s Ladder of Participation to assess the participatory level supported by AR and uses the UN Sustainable Development Goals as evaluation criteria. A mobile AR app was developed in Unity, integrating a spatial proposal for Annuntiatenbach Street. The app allowed participants to engage with site-specific elements such as walkability and climate-comfort improvements. During a two-day workshop in January 2025, 12 students tested both the AR app and renderings. Data were collected through questionnaires, group interviews, and workshop documentation.

Findings show that AR significantly enhances understanding and motivation. Participants demonstrated higher engagement, longer interaction times, and more physical exploration. Qualitative responses highlighted AR’s immersive qualities as key to improving spatial comprehension. Both AR and renderings supported participation at the informing/consultation level, but AR proved more effective overall. However, technical issues, such as setup effort and tracking inaccuracies, affected the experience. Solutions include UI refinement and optimized tracking. While valuable for visualization, the AR app lacked co-creation functions, indicating the need for user-driven design features. The study concludes that AR can strengthen communication in collaborative planning and should be integrated with other digital tools to support more transparent and inclusive processes.