Problem

Visualising geospatial data is often done through map overlays on products like Google Maps or Mapbox. Although being a good tool to transfer numerical insights to users, it sometimes lacks storytelling depth when working with bigger data sets. For those data sets, you want to tell a story your users can relate to emotionally and intuitively. Feel the numbers, not read them.

Solution

Experimenting with 3d maps originally started during my bachelor. During the last semester, our briefing was to visualise local pollution data for the local newspaper. To do so I decided to experiment with making 3d maps based on open data. I first wanted to recreate the skyline of the city. To do so I merged height (lidar) data with cadastral data, with this it is possible to create 3d objects by extruding the floorplan of buildings. By using Open Street Maps I’ve managed to add other map vector layers too, like streets, parks and waterways. This eventually resulted in a project I called CityIO, and served as a base for all other 3d city projects I’ve made after.