What's New in FormSpace: A Review of the Latest Updates for Your Land

FormSpace constantly introduces new features that help property owners bring their landscape design ideas to life with even greater ease and precision. The latest update brings significant improvements in AI design, expanded object libraries, and new tools for terrain modeling and visualization. Now, planning your land is even more convenient and efficient, allowing you to visualize your future garden or yard with maximum detail before any work begins.

Enhanced AI Design: Smarter, More Accurate, Faster

Artificial intelligence in FormSpace continues to evolve, becoming an indispensable assistant in creating unique landscape solutions. In this update, we have significantly refined module 2.1 “AI Concept,” enhancing its ability to analyze the specific characteristics of your land. Now, AI better understands parameters such as natural terrain slope, sunlight exposure at different times of day, and even soil type, offering more relevant and viable ideas. For instance, slope recognition accuracy now reaches 0.5 degrees, which is critically important for drainage systems and terracing. The algorithms now consider not only general styles but also specific requirements for functional zones, for example, suggesting options for a play area that is maximally safe and shaded during hot parts of the day. This allows for quicker generation of a concept that perfectly matches your needs and property conditions, whether it's a small plot or a spacious area.

Expanded Library: More Objects, More Inspiration

The foundation of any detailed project is a rich selection of elements. We have significantly expanded the object libraries available in modules 1.5 “Objects” and 3.1 “Design by Photo”. Now, you have access to over 700 new 3D models of plants, small architectural forms, decorative elements, and paving materials. This includes dozens of new tree, shrub, and flower species adapted for various climatic zones, as well as new models of garden furniture, lighting fixtures, and fountains. The expanded library allows you to create more diverse and personalized projects, from classic to modern styles, without limiting your imagination. No more searching for suitable elements on third-party resources – everything you need is already integrated into FormSpace.

New Tools for Terrain Modeling and Drainage

Working with natural terrain often presents a complex challenge. In the new update, we have introduced advanced tools for terrain modeling, integrated into module 1.1 “Plan and Zoning”. Now, you can more intuitively model terraces, create embankments, excavations, and even design decorative ponds, taking into account natural water flow. Drainage analysis features allow you to anticipate how rainwater will be distributed across your property, helping to avoid flooding or soil erosion issues. This is particularly useful for properties with complex landscapes, where proper runoff planning can save significant costs on drainage systems. Learn more about zoning in our article: Key Principles of Property Zoning.

Immersive Design: "Virtual Walkthrough" Feature and Lighting Analysis

To help you visualize your future property as realistically as possible, we've added a “Virtual Walkthrough” feature and an improved lighting analysis module. Now, after creating a 3D model in module 1.7 “3D View”, you can literally walk through your project, evaluating it from different angles and heights. This allows for a better understanding of proportions, object placement, and the overall atmosphere. The lighting analysis module, working in conjunction with 3D visualization, allows you to simulate the sun's movement throughout the day and year, showing how shadows will fall on different areas of your property. This is critically important for correctly choosing plants (e.g., sun-loving or shade-tolerant), positioning relaxation areas, and even planning lighting. The speed of 3D visualization generation has been increased by 35%, making the process even smoother and more interactive.

Workflow Optimization and Improved Export

We have also focused on improving the overall user experience and optimizing the workflow. The interface has become even more intuitive, and loading large projects has been accelerated. For those working with professional designers or contractors, we've added support for .OBJ and .FBX formats for project export, simplifying further work in professional CAD systems. Now you can easily share your projects, receive feedback, or transfer them for further implementation without loss of quality. This is especially relevant if you plan to order additional services, such as a detailed dendroplan, which you can learn about here: How to Choose Plants for Your Property.

How to Use New Features for Planning in FormSpace

FormSpace's new features significantly simplify the landscape planning process, making it more visual and precise. Imagine you want to create a multifunctional garden on a property of 1200 square meters with elevation changes and a desire to include a barbecue area, a small pond, and a children's playground. Start by working in module 1.1 “Plan and Zoning”, uploading your property plan. Use the new terrain tools to accurately mark elevation changes and plan terraces or retaining walls. Then, move to module 2.1 “AI Concept”. Set your preferences (e.g., “modern style”, “low-maintenance garden”, “multifunctional”) and let the improved AI suggest several options for zoning and key object placement, considering the terrain and lighting characteristics it now recognizes with high accuracy.

After selecting the most suitable concept, proceed to module 1.5 “Objects” and 3.1 “Design by Photo” to fill your project with details. Thanks to the expanded library, you can choose ideal plants, garden furniture, and decorative elements. Use the “Virtual Walkthrough” feature (available from module 1.7 “3D View”) to stroll through your future garden, evaluate it from a user's perspective, and ensure all zones are optimally positioned. Check the lighting analysis to confirm that chosen plants will receive enough light and relaxation areas won't overheat at midday. If necessary, export the project in .OBJ for sharing with a landscape designer or construction team. FormSpace becomes a complete tool for creating your dream project, from idea to detailed plan.

FAQ

Will the new updates affect the cost of a FormSpace subscription?

No, most new features and improvements are available to all current subscribers without a change in cost. We strive to continuously improve our product, providing additional value without increasing the financial burden on users. Some expanded libraries or specialized tools may be available within higher-tier plans, but the core improvements are accessible to everyone.

Could the new features slow down the application on older computers?

We are constantly working on performance optimization. Despite the addition of complex new features like “Virtual Walkthrough” and improved rendering, we have managed to increase the speed of 3D visualization generation by 35%. FormSpace is optimized for modern devices, but for maximum comfort, it is recommended to use a PC with sufficient RAM and a modern graphics card.

How do I update FormSpace to get access to the new features?

FormSpace is a cloud-based service, so all updates are applied automatically. You do not need to download and install anything manually. The next time you log in, you will already be using the most current version of the platform with all the new features. Simply log into your account, and you will see all the changes.

Can I upload my own 3D models of plants or objects?

Currently, FormSpace provides an extensive built-in object library. The ability to upload custom 3D models is currently under consideration and development. We carefully listen to user feedback and are working on expanding functionality to provide this option in the future.

What should I do if I encounter a problem using the new features?

If you have any questions or encounter problems using the new features, please contact our support team. You can find contact information on our website. Our specialists will be happy to help you understand and resolve any difficulties, so you can use FormSpace as effectively as possible.

Do the new terrain tools only consider slope, or other soil parameters as well?

The new terrain tools are primarily focused on modeling slopes, terraces, and drainage. They allow you to visualize how water will flow across your property. However, the AI Concept (module 2.1) can now consider general soil type parameters, if you specify them, for more accurate plant selection and overall design recommendations.

Can I share a project created with the new features with someone who has an older version of FormSpace?

Since FormSpace is a cloud-based platform, all users always work with the most current version. Therefore, if you share a project, any other FormSpace user will be able to open it and view all elements created using the new features, without any compatibility issues.

The latest FormSpace updates are designed to make the landscape planning process even more intuitive, powerful, and inspiring. We hope that the new features will help you create the property of your dreams with even greater ease and precision. We invite you to try them out now and see how FormSpace can transform your vision of garden design.