BAC Journal > IMI/IMTEF Explore Augmented Reality Bricklaying to Unleash Creative Masonry Design

IMI/IMTEF Explore Augmented Reality Bricklaying to Unleash Creative Masonry Design

2025/Issue 1
IMI and IMTEF

Issue 1, 2025
IMI/IMTEF

1
IMTEF Regional Training Director Dan Flores lays brick according to the wireframe model depicted through the AR headset he wears. 
[Photo credit] Dave Burke for SOM
 

Can Augmented Reality (AR) push the boundaries of what can be built with brick? IMI and IMTEF are exploring how BAC craftworkers can combine their expertise with technology to create new possibilities for masonry construction.

Together with the renowned design firm Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill (SOM) and leading universities, the research examines whether AR can make complex structures more feasible to build. 

“The AR, compared to traditional bricklaying, is very different because you’re placing the brick in a predetermined destination that’s shown to you in what looks like a hologram,” said Dave Donkin, IMTEF Regional Director. “It’s completely different from anything I’ve ever done before.”

Though early results show that AR didn’t speed up the rate of construction for skilled BAC craftworkers, it did produce more accurate builds and streamline communication between the project designers and builders. 

“It’s very valuable to see how we can make things simpler or more logical based on how things actually get constructed,” said Alessandro Beghini, Senior Associate Principal at SOM.

“I think this technology will bring a lot of eyes to our trade,” said Jamaar Evans, the BAC Local 1 MD/VA/DC apprentice who helped with the build. “You don’t often see walls like this – it’s really fancy work. If we implement AR on the job site, I know I’ll wake up more excited to go to work.”