View Boston: City Exploration Using Modern Technologies
All photos: courtesy of JRA, part of RWS Global
(eap) Recently, the new tourist attraction View Boston opened in Boston, Massachusetts: A viewing platform atop the Prudential Center that promises not only a great view of the metropolis, but also a special experience factor. The master plan and design for the attraction were provided by the creative minds from JRA (part of RWS Global).
The visit starts with an elevator ride up to floor 52, during which guests are supposed to feel as if they are flying through clouds. In order to create this illusion, the elevator is equipped with several TSI Samsung screens on which a matching video content can be seen, as well as with a 2.1 sound system to create a high level of immersion. Arriving on the 52nd floor, guests are treated to a real view of the city. To extend this view, there are some “Virtual Viewers”, showing 360-degree-footage of Boston with AR features. On their smartphones, guests can create their own personal “ViewPrint” digital itinerary throughout their visit.
On the “Cloud Terrace” one floor below, visitors can take live photos up close thanks to the “Big Picture Selfie” tool, which after having taken a picture zooms the perspective out to simulate a view from thousands of feet away. A roughly 15-meter-wide projected 3D model of the city created by FrankNDesign and 14 LED touch screens for a closer look at individual buildings and attractions can be found on Level 50, along with the “Open Doors” 270-degree immersive theatre that uses five projectors and a 6.2 sound system to show a short 18k film by Atlantic Pictures. The company of Electrosonic was responsible for the AV installation. Further project partners were Float4, Lightborne, Yessian and Abernathy Lighting Design.
“As the innovative and digital landscape continues to shape our world, View Boston embraces cutting-edge technology to offer an unparalleled sensory experience,” says Bryan Koop, Executive Vice President for Boston Properties, Inc.’s (BXP’s) Boston Region. “Our commitment to integrating tech elements seamlessly into View Boston not only enhances visitors’ perspectives of the awe-inspiring skyline but also captures the essence of Boston’s progressive spirit.” ■
