Furniture, lighting and wall systems are in abundance here at #IIDEX 09 – so seeing something entirely different is something of a privilege: DIRTT ‘Doing It Right This Time’ debuts ICE, a revolutionary software for modular workspace design. Taking its cues from video gaming, ICE is an expert graphical system; ‘expert’ referring to its product and specification knowledge. It instantly creates real-time, interactive, 3D virtual environments quotes, parts lists, and manufacturing direction, “allow[ing] design professionals to spend their time on vision rather than the laborious work of pricing and detailing parts and pieces,” according to the company.

ICE. Created by DIRRT.

Used to design, market and order DIRTT’s own (sustainable) solutions of course- ICE is also being made available to major office furniture manufacturers. Designers choose colors, finishes, shapes, layouts, sizes and quantities, while the expert software deals with product specifications, tallies up parts, pieces and prices, speaking directly to the manufacturer’s tools.

ICE is a Java-based tool that seamlessly interfaces with AutoCAD, ADT or MicroStation. It can work within AutoCAD: CADICE, or as a stand-alone version: ICEBOX (both versions are completely compatible.) Small or large changes made to the elevation drawings, or even made in 3d, are instantly updated throughout each level.