A Window on the Past, Edinburgh
Old College - Project Overview
Explore the origins and development of The University of Edinburgh, centred on the site of the Old College Quadrangle. The story of this location involves churches, battles, queens, murder, world-changing discoveries and much besides…
You have the opportunity to learn more about this history and, in particular, the archaeology and architectural development of Old College, through this interactive app which has been commissioned by the University as a guide to help visitors navigate and explore the site.
The app presents a 3-dimensional visualisation of the site based upon extensive recent archaeological excavations and a broad range of historical and early visual sources.
Use the app’s interactive timeslider to chart the evolution, history and architectural development of this complex site over 800 years:
From ecclesiastical origins in the 13th century – the Kirk O’ Field - to the later medieval foundation as a small monastic community.
The dramatic Renaissance history of the site, including its destruction by the English in the 1540s during the ‘Rough Wooing’; as the residence of Regent Arran, Duke of Chateauherault; through the Scottish Reformation; and, most notoriously, as the scene of the murder of Lord Darnley.
The foundation of the ‘Tounis College’ for 80 scholars by the Town Council in 1583, the first civic university foundation in the British Isles.
Follow the continuing expansion of the college complex through the 17th and 18th centuries through to its late 18th century apogee as the power-house of the Scottish Enlightenment, influential on the European stage.
The successive demolition of the crumbling early college buildings and their replacement by Robert Adam’s and William Playfair’s magnificent Old College Quadrangle scheme.
Old College is still the very heart of the University which, from its original 80 scholars, is now a world-renowned institution with a student body of 30,000.
Client Brief
The University of Edinburgh's iconic Old College, with its rich history spanning centuries, sought a modern way to engage the public and visitors with its fascinating past.
Luma were commissioned to bring the rich history of Old College to life for both the public and visitors.
The aim was to provide an engaging and educational experience that allowed users to explore the building's evolution over time, from its origins in the 1200s to its present day use.
Luma Approach
We took a collaborative approach, working closely with Addyman Archaeology and historians to meticulously reconstruct a detailed timeline of Old College's history. This involved researching historical records, examining original artwork and etchings and incorporating user-friendly storytelling techniques.
Our team leveraged cutting-edge CGI modelling to create virtual representations of the building at various stages throughout its development. These models were enriched with authentic details based on historical data, ensuring a high level of accuracy and realism.
To enhance user engagement, we seamlessly integrated augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies into the app. Users could 'augment' historic views by pointing their devices at real-world locations within the Old College courtyard. Remote users had access to 'virtual portals', offering glimpses back in time.
Delivery
Visitors were able explore the building's past through immersive AR/VR features, learn about key events and even "walk through" different eras of Old College. The app proved a valuable educational resource that significantly enhances the visitor experience and allowed the University to share their heritage in a truly innovative way.