The House of Olbrich — An Augmented Reality tour through architectural history

With ”House of Olbrich” we present an iPhone Augmented Reality (AR) app that visualizes the compelling history of Darmstadt´s unique Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) quarter with video-see through Augmented Reality. We propose methods for enabling high performance computer vision algorithms to deploy sophisticated AR visuals on current generation Smartphones by outsourcing resource intensive tasks to the cloud. This allows us to apply methods on 3D feature recognition for even complex tracking situations outdoors, where lightning conditions change and tracked objects are often occluded. By taking a snapshot of the building, the user learns about the architect, design and history of the building. Historical media, like old photographs and blueprints are superimposed on the building´s front, depicting the moved history of the famous House of Olbrich, which was destroyed during World War II and has been only rudimentary restored. Augmented Reality technology allows tourists to jump back in time visually by using their Smartphones: Mixing Realities emphasizes the user´s experience and leads his attention to the impressive historical architecture of the Art Nouveau. In addition, we ease interaction means by superimposing snapshots. Tourists may view and read information also in a relaxed position without the need to front-up their mobiles all the time.