Architectural Apps for Smartphones: Four Finished Cases

Abstract

This paper describes the process followed for the creation of four applications for iPhone/iPad devices, which have produced an unusual R&D and are applicable to professional practice. This process is born on two, apparently unconnected points: 1. University teaching, research and the professional practice of architecture should not be unconnected activities, but the complex reality of the world of construction means that they are seen as separate. 2. It is obvious that many technological tools such as PC tablets, smartphones... are being used by the general public in their everyday lives [1]. These are the first apps developed by the School of Architecture, where the formal and aesthetic requirements are of great importance, so the concept of a collection of apps also had to be resolved in these first apps. Hence, the seemingly simple user interface was complex to design, as it had to be the basis for future apps (yet to be designed at the time), either by the School of Architecture or other Faculties in the University.