Lowe’s introduces virtual 3-D room remodeling for customers

Mooreseville, N.C. — Lowe’s has launched Lowe’s Innovation Lab, with a goal of creating new technology to solve common consumer frustrations while working alongside start-ups, universities, specialized professionals and other companies. The first concept to come out of the lab is the Lowe's Holoroom, a home improvement simulator that applies 3D and augmented reality technologies to provide homeowners an intuitive, immersive experience in their dream rooms.



"We know that for many homeowners, the struggle to visualize a completed home improvement project or to share that vision with others can stop a project in its tracks," said Kyle Nel, executive director of Lowe's Innovation Labs. "The Holoroom is our solution, enabling consumers to visualize their project and share that vision with family and friends."



A customer uses the new solution by choosing their preferred products, and then viewing and experiencing the products in the Holoroom. While in the Holoroom, they can make changes to the room design until they are satisfied with the results. They can then take home a printout or view a 3-D model of the room which they can share with others via with a free app available on iOS or Droid devices.



"Lowe's wants to lead innovation by developing disruptive technologies that will help us establish a long-term competitive advantage," said Nel. "Lowe's Innovation Labs will allow us to quickly bring in new technology and new partners, explore a wide range of possibilities and identify opportunities to develop concepts like the Holoroom."



SciFutures, a foresight and innovation consultancy, partnered with Lowe's on the development of the Holoroom.



The Lowe's Holoroom will be introduced in select Toronto stores in 2014, and equipped with thousands of products to help customers plan a bathroom remodel.



Additional product categories and rooms will be added to the solution in the next 12 to 18 months.