Our CEO's Interview Was Featured in Taskhub Magazine
An interview with our CEO, Amatake, has been published in "Taskhub Magazine," a media outlet that introduces use cases of generative AI and DX (Digital Transformation).
The article takes an in-depth look at the proprietary 3D simulator we have been developing, covering the background behind its creation, how it works, and the tangible improvements it has brought to our operations.
Conveying the Appeal of Italian Plaster More Accurately
The appeal of Italian plaster (Stucco) is difficult to convey through photographs alone.
The way the sheen shifts with the light, the depth that emerges depending on the viewing angle, and the subtle variations and texture that only handwork can produce—much of this can only truly be appreciated when seen in an actual space.
Until now, our process centered on having clients review photographs of past projects, request samples, and then having our craftsmen produce each sample one by one. However, even with the same color, the impression can change dramatically depending on the sheen, the scale of the texture, and how the gloss appears.
As a result, we often had to repeat sample production many times to close the gap with the client's envisioned finish.
From Image-Generation AI to a 3D Simulator for Reproducing Texture
The article also touches on how we initially considered using image-generation AI, but ultimately pivoted toward developing our own 3D simulator.
Image-generation AI is a genuinely compelling technology. However, when it comes to proposing architectural finishing materials, an "image with a nice atmosphere" is not enough on its own.
We need to reproduce, as accurately as possible, the texture close to that of the actual plaster material—its light reflection, its unevenness, and its metallic luster. That is why we built a system using physically-based rendering (PBR) that allows the texture of plaster materials to be examined within a 3D space.
By enabling clients to visualize the finish based on a photo of their own space, and then proceed to sample requests and consultations from there, we have made far more concrete communication possible.
Reducing Rework in Sample Production and Sparking Encounters with New Materials
Introducing the simulator has helped reduce rework in sample production as well as material costs.
Another unexpected benefit is that materials which had rarely been chosen before are now attracting attention.
As clients try out various finishes on the simulator, we have seen an increase in concrete inquiries such as: "This material is nice, too." "Could you make this finish a little more metallic?"
More than just a tool for improving operational efficiency, we feel it has also become a way for clients to discover new charms in Italian plaster.
Connecting Craftsmanship with IT
We do not believe that IT or AI is meant to replace the work of craftsmen.
Rather, we see it as a means to help more people appreciate the craftsman's skill, and to make it easier to convey texture and spatial impressions even to distant clients.
The ultimate beauty of Italian plaster is, as it always has been, born from the handwork of craftsmen. Precisely because of this, we want to harness the power of digital technology to convey that value accurately.
Read the Full Interview
The interview goes into detail about the background behind the 3D simulator's development, the technical ingenuity involved, and our outlook for the future. We invite you to take a look.
Rework and material costs halved. A proprietary 3D simulator and DX built after abandoning image-generation AI
Taskhub Magazine
https://taskhub.jp/magazine/interview/15248/Bringing the Potential of Italian Plaster to More Spaces
At Stucco Plus, we combine the traditional beauty of Italian plaster with modern digital technology to create an environment where clients can choose materials more clearly and with greater peace of mind.
We will continue to work on both the technical and advisory fronts so that we can deliver Italian plaster—which brings depth and texture to any space—to as many people as possible.