How can we specify user requirements for and structure new Virtual Reality, VR, based collaboration environments with rather limited knowledge about the future? The paper puts the development of VR and collaboration communication support in perspective. Aspects are put forward on properties and structure of the next generation of networked virtual collaboration spaces, underlying digital application models and the next generation of semantic web. The contextual design method applied for user requirements capture and user environment design of collaborative VR environments is exemplified. Comments are finally given on experiences from practical use of VR systems in Denmark.