Metaphoric Spaces in Virtual Reality Design: From Simulation to Participatory Functionalism as a Design Approach

In this paper, we draft a novel design approach for the design of Virtual Reality (VR) public spaces, namely participatory functionalism. Our analysis builds on designerly reflection of two multi-stakeholder participatory design processes spanning over six years which aimed at developing immersive VR environments for public libraries. Often, designers of public VR spaces have taken the approach of simulating existing physical spaces; for example, building a VR replica of an existing building, such as a library. We propose an alternative to this simulation approach which is based on designing for the values, ideas, meanings, and societal functions of the library. Through our empirical and design-led studies, we formulate participatory functionalism as an approach. Theory-wise, we draw from the functionalist movement in architecture well as the interdisciplinary participatory design movement.