Mapping the literature: a systematic review of VR technology in architecture

Açıkel M., Örmecioğlu H. T., Erbaş İ.

OPEN HOUSE INTERNATIONAL, sa.ahead-of-print, 2025 (AHCI)

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Basım Tarihi: 2025
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1108/ohi-09-2024-0314
  • Dergi Adı: OPEN HOUSE INTERNATIONAL
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Arts and Humanities Citation Index (AHCI), Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, Periodicals Index Online, Agricultural & Environmental Science Database, ICONDA Bibliographic
  • Akdeniz Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

Purpose – This study aims to conduct a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of research literature on the use of virtual reality (VR) technology in architectural education and practice. It seeks to provide insights into the evolution, applications and impact of VR technology in architecture, particularly in design, education and construction.

Design/methodology/approach – The study employs a systematic literature review, bibliometric analysis and content analysis to explore VR’s role in architecture. Data are sourced from the ISI Web of Science database and analyzed using VOSviewer and Bibliometrix software. Text mining techniques were applied to assess bibliometric connections between VR and architecture.

Findings – The analysis uncovers patterns, trends and collaborative networks in VR’s application to architectural practice and education. It highlights publication frequencies, year-wise distribution, leading countries, collaboration networks and prevalent author keywords. Content analysis identifies key research themes, emerging trends and gaps, suggesting future research opportunities and the potential for VR technology to further impact architecture.

Research limitations/implications – The findings provide practical insights for professionals and academics in architecture, contributing to innovative approaches in practice and education. While the study identifies gaps in existing literature, future research should aim to address these limitations and further explore VR’s role in architectural education and practice.

Originality/value – This paper is the first to present a bibliometric and content analysis of VR technology in architecture, enriching the scholarly discourse. It provides a foundation for future research on VR integration in architectural education and practice.

Keywords Architecture, Architectural education, Virtual reality, Systematic literature review, Bibliometric analysis, Content analysis

Paper type - Research paper