Envisioning tomorrow's spaces: A design fiction framework for exploring the integration of spatial computing into future architecture

As we move forward within the digital and information age, the advancements in Spatial Computing technologies enable the possible transformation of architectural spaces by blending digital and physical spaces. This study introduces a (Design) Fiction framework based primarily on Design Fiction then Science Fiction Prototyping methodologies to envision future architectural spaces in the context of Spatial Computing technologies. The introduced (Design) Fiction framework is essentially to assist architecture students in creating immersive three-dimensional storyworlds, encouraging them to investigate the relationship between future users, technologies, and spaces. A series of iterative workshops and tests were conducted with architecture students and experts to improve the framework and facilitate critical engagement in envisioning tomorrow's spaces with advanced Spatial Computing technologies. The study utilizes a postphenomenological approach to analyze and evaluate how these technologies mediate human experiences in future spaces and shape architecture. The main goal of the study is to foster a forward-thinking mindset, especially among architects of the future, by prioritizing speculative and narrative-driven approaches, and preparing them to design creative, environmentally conscious, resilient built environments. Although the context of this study is focused on adapting Spatial Computing technologies into spaces, the (Design) Fiction framework is adaptable in its nature and can be used to include all emerging technologies in envisioning future architecture. Future research should explore the implementation of the (Design) Fiction framework in interdisciplinary user groups to discuss signals of emerging shifts and collaboratively envision sustainable and adaptive built environments.