In real estate, project development and architecture, high-quality visualisations have long been a key to success - but they often cost time, money and nerves. This is exactly where Pelicad comes in: With an AI-supported image generator based on 3D data, the start-up helps architecture firms and project developers to create detailed images in the shortest possible time. Instead of relying on complicated renderings or lengthy coordination, the AI enables flexible and aesthetically convincing visualisations.
The founding team combines complementary strengths: Sebastian brings in-depth 3D and AI expertise, Robin is responsible for strategy and management, Yannic contributes sales experience and industry knowledge. Robin and Sebastian are long-time companions with shared project experience, while Yannic joined them through his start-up experience and provided the brilliant idea for AI image generation.
In this article, Robin explains how an idea for citizen participation developed into a technology that fundamentally changes planning and marketing processes and why project developers in particular benefit from it.
How did the idea for Pelicad and your AI solution come about?
Our journey began in 2019 when we were looking at augmented reality (AR) to improve citizen participation in urban planning. However, in discussions with architects and project developers, we realised that the real need was not for AR visualisations, but that creating images from 3D data was complicated and expensive. We thought: ‘We'll build an AI image generator that makes this process much easier.’ We had already developed the right technology for this beforehand, which we were able to ‘recycle’, so to speak.
What characterises your solution and what role will AI play in architecture and project development in the future?
Our AI-supported tool works directly with 3D data - in contrast to many other providers, who usually only use 2D images as input. This means that the geometry of the buildings is retained and the AI can make realistic and coherent adjustments in a targeted manner - a clear advantage for architects and project developers who rely on detailed visualisations. Our solution also enables precise control over which elements remain unchanged and where creative freedom is allowed. High-quality visualisations are created in just 30 minutes, saving enormous amounts of time and money. The focus on 3D integration makes our approach technically sophisticated, difficult to copy and gives us a clear advantage. We are convinced that AI will fundamentally change the industry - from visualisation to the entire construction planning and development process. With our 3D approach and innovative use of AI, we are at the forefront of this change and look forward to actively shaping this future.
The pelicad platform:
How does your business model work?
We rely on a licence model in which our customers can choose between different packages. These range from a limited number of renderings to an unlimited option that allows any number of images, projects and users to be integrated. We host our solution ourselves to ensure maximum flexibility and scalability.
You recently completed a six-figure pre-seed round. How did you go about it?
The financing was a crucial step for us. We successfully relied on BayStartUP to find investors. The big advantage was that our startup was already known and it was much easier to enter into discussions with investors. Our main investment through Bayern Kapital came about via your Matching Day. It wasn't just the capital that was important to us, but also the network and expertise that the investors were able to offer us. We are convinced that the combination of capital and strategic support is extremely valuable.
What are your plans for the future of Pelicad?
We are currently focussing on further developing our product with our first paying customers and perfecting the product-market fit. In the long term, we are also thinking about international expansion, but for now we are focussing on the German market to ensure direct contact with our first customers.
Finally, do you have any advice for other founders?
Have the courage to question proposals or requirements in a constructive dialogue with investors - especially if they don't fit in perfectly with your internal planning. The important thing is to find a happy medium together. In our experience, focussing on your own priorities is usually received positively, as it shows that you have a clear vision and can work in a focused manner - both qualities that investors value highly.
Photos: Team (c) Pelicad, Stefan Rechsteiner, Velt Studio; Produkt (c) Pelicad