Conservation Of Architectural Heritage Research Articles

A Decentralized Centralization in Cultural Heritage Management of Singapore

In view of the importance of cultural heritage management, this paper aims to review and critically think of a cultural heritage management structure combining decentralization and centralization, by examining the managerial issues associated with architectural heritage conservation in Singapore. Its heritage management structure is interpreted around statutory boards and their grassroots support, drawing a clear picture of how Singaporean cultural heritage is preserved and managed in a decentralized-centralization structure. On this basis, a critical thinking about Singapore’s structure of cultural heritage management is developed. This paper found out that Singapore with a typical centralized managerial structure set up statutory boards as governmental agency to enhance the flexibility of operating conservation projects, avoiding possible weakness of state-centered management framework. In addition, this paper argued that a management system in combination with centralization and decentralization seems commonplace around the world, on the grounds that a pure centralized structure is often accompanied by cumbersome bureaucracy and the function of a pure decentralized structure is generally constrained due to possible stereotyping behaving and thinking way of civil servants with professional backgrounds.

Research on the Digital Preservation of Architectural Heritage Based on Virtual Reality Technology

As a representative of the scientific and technological achievements of the new era, the overall development of virtual reality (VR) technology is becoming increasingly refined, which provides new development ideas and technical support in the field of ancient building restoration and architectural heritage preservation. In this context, digital conservation and the practice of architectural heritage have become important focuses of application in the industry. This paper starts from the core concept of VR technology, analyzes the value of the application of VR technology in the protection of ancient architecture, puts forward relevant suggestions and technical application methods, and takes Red Pagoda in Fuliang County as an example. In this sense, virtual reality technology is used to restore and protect the buildings, forming a digital heritage of ancient architecture. This study first utilizes a three-dimensional laser scanning instrument to collect point cloud data, and then the plane graph is drawn by measurement. Then, an Architectural Heritage Building Information Model is created, and comprehensive information on historical buildings is integrated. Finally, VR technology is used to show the effect of digital display and preservation. This study transforms architectural cultural heritage into a shareable and renewable digital form through restoration and reproduction, interpreting and utilizing it from a new perspective and providing new ideas and methods for architectural heritage conservation.

A Historical Building Information Modeling-Based Framework to Improve Collaboration and Data Security in Architectural Heritage Restoration Projects

With the increasing awareness of architectural heritage conservation and the development of digital technology, there is an urgent need in the field of architectural heritage restoration for a novel solution that can enhance data security, collaboration efficiency, and file management capabilities. This study proposes an Architectural Heritage Restoration Distributed Common Data Environment (AHR-DCDE) framework based on blockchain and IPFS technologies to address the above challenges. The AHR-DCDE framework significantly improves data security and collaborative efficiency in architectural heritage restoration projects by creating a decentralized collaborative design process that achieves data immutability, traceability, and efficient large-scale file processing capabilities. The AHR-DCDE framework significantly improves data security and collaborative efficiency in architectural heritage restoration projects by creating a decentralized collaborative design process that achieves data immutability, traceability, and efficient large-scale file processing capabilities. In this study, the practicality and effectiveness of the AHR-DCDE framework is verified by taking the heritage restoration design project of Pinghe Packing Factory in Wuhan, Hubei Province, as an example. Evaluation of the framework’s network latency, throughput, and storage costs indicates that AHR-DCDE can meet the requirements of architectural heritage restoration projects, possessing efficient capabilities for handling and sharing project data. Furthermore, the implementation of the AHR-DCDE framework also facilitates efficient collaboration among interdisciplinary teams, providing robust technical support for the protection and restoration of architectural heritage.

Incidence of environmental factors on travertine façade of heritage buildings in the historic center of Cuenca-Ecuador. A test scenario through Digital Imagen Processing

The problem of architectural heritage conservation in a consolidated historic urban context is of worldwide relevance. In Ecuador, and specifically in Cuenca, there are no specific approaches to evaluate the environmental impact on the heritage deterioration, therefore, an alternative diagnostic of travertine facades is proposed to define the levels of deterioration based on climatic factors through a case study. Two research stages are developed; 1) preliminary diagnosis of the architectural, environmental and anthropic components, using architectural cards and Leopold’s Multivariable Matrix; and 2) quasi-experimental analysis with a mixed approach (quantitative and qualitative) based on real-time data collection of potential environmental variables to generate deterioration, which focuses on image processing. This technique is gaining momentum because it offers the possibility of studying the characteristics of surfaces through a non-invasive procedure. This paper describes the application of the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NVDI) algorithm applied to RGB images known as False-NVDI in order to obtain the deterioration caused by the incidence of environmental factors on the travertine facades. In particular, images of two buildings belonging to the Historic Center of the City of Cuenca were used. The results indicate that this technique has a great potential to determine three levels of deterioration; good, fair and bad. At the same time, it is confirmed that the proposed methodology is an effective and low-cost tool with high potential for short-term application in previous studies and more extensive research prior to intervention.

Restoration manager: Adapting project delivery methods for the restoration of architectural heritage

The restoration of architectural heritage is a complex process and presents intricate and formidable challenges. The project delivery method plays a pivotal role for the success of the restoration process. There exists a diverse array of project delivery methods, each characterized by its distinct set of advantages and disadvantages. In the context of architectural heritage restoration, given its distinct characteristics, these advantages and disadvantages encompass a wide spectrum. Current project delivery methods, while effective for certain contexts, often fall short in addressing the unique requisites of restoration projects. Acknowledging this inadequacy, this article undertakes a research that includes a literature review that not only examines prevailing project delivery methods but also articulates the need for a tailored framework within the restoration field. This article is produced from the doctoral thesis titled "Development of a Sustainable Integrated Management System for the Conservation of Architectural Heritage", which is in the process of preparation. In the light of the results of the survey which is conducted within the scope of the first author's doctoral study in order to examine the project delivery approach preferred among the participants that are working in the field of the conservation of architectural heritage, a project delivery method called "Restoration Manager", which has been precisely prepared to meet the requirements inherent in restoration initiatives, is presented. This comprehensive project delivery method seeks to fill the void by addressing the distinct needs and challenges encountered in restoration projects. The essence of this work is to create an appropriate project delivery system that adapts to the nuances of the restoration works, and through this project delivery framework, the restoration processes and outcomes will successfully be completed.

Historical, Architectural, and Structural Virtual Tour for Conservation and Maintenance of Architectural Heritage

ABSTRACT The Virtual Tour (VT) represents a key tool used in valorising and disseminating the historical and cultural value of built heritage. Basically, it has potential in supporting interdisciplinary technical activities associated with the historical and architectural aspects related to documentation and conservation. This paper defines the methodological lines into expanding the potentialities of the VT in the framework of a rational technical management and maintenance of historical assets from the Authorities. Thus, in addition to basic information related to historical and architectonical aspects, engineering technical data collected during the knowledge path recommended by relevant National and International codes, dealing with static and seismic performance assessment and the conceptual design of structural interventions, have been included in the VT. The designed STRAINS-VT (hiSToRical, ArchItectural aNd Structural–Virtual Tour) is conceived as a dynamic approach supporting the knowledge and monitoring of valuable assets in time, being open to updates and integration. Benefits associated with the application of the proposed STRAINS-VT have been investigated referring to a real architectural heritage building located in Abruzzi Region (Italy). Research outcomes showed that the knowledge process, which goes from the digital integrated survey and the in-situ structural characterization of materials and components to the analysis and design of structural interventions, can be profitably incorporated within the VT. Particularly, the STRAINS-VT operational framework represents an accessible and easy interpretable informative hub that support technical Authorities having in charge the conservation, maintenance, and restoration of valuable assets in the decision-making, validation, and commissioning of strengthening and maintenance works.

Beyond Preservation: Heritage as an Educational Practice Process at 141 Neil Road, Singapore

Over the past two decades, the concept of heritage has been significantly broadened, with an increasing number of scholars viewing it not as a set of static objects with fixed meanings but as a social process consciously endowed with commemorative functions through human creation. This research illustrates and empirically supports this perspective through a case study. Initially, the paper reviews the development of the heritage concept through the literature review and elaborates on the idea of “heritage as process”. Subsequently, it examines Singapore’s enriching exploration and successful implementation of heritage conservation, particularly since 2000, when the local government shifted from preserving historical buildings to a comprehensive conservation strategy that embraces a sense of place, identity, and memory and encourages a bottom-up participatory approach. Finally, this paper takes the transformation of the century-old townhouse at 141 Neil Road in Singapore as its focus. After being renovated into an urban architectural heritage conservation laboratory, the house has gradually become a place of heritage on Neil Road by training professionals’ construction skills, transforming its function, introducing technological explorations, and enhancing public interaction. This process has developed the abilities of heritage conservation professionals in desktop research, reuse design, and practical construction skills while simultaneously promoting community participation and heightening awareness of heritage conservation among local residents. Through daily practices, this historical townhouse gradually became a place of heritage on Neil Road, exemplifying the research theme that “heritage is a comprehensive and dynamic practice encompassing social, cultural, and technological dimensions”. From being preserved for renovation in 2020 to being approved as a “Heritage Show House” by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) in 2023, the case of 141 Neil Road offers a new perspective in the heritage conservation field that “heritage is always in the process of becoming, rather than a constant given”.

Characterization of Anisotropic Salt Weathering through Nondestructive Techniques Mapping Using a GIS Environment.

Doctrinal texts on architectural heritage conservation emphasize the importance of fully understanding the structural and material characteristics and utilizing information systems. Photogrammetry allows for the generation of detailed, geo-referenced Digital Elevation Models of architectural elements at a low cost, while GIS software enables the addition of layers of material characteristic data to these models, creating different property maps that can be combined through map algebra. This paper presents the results of the mechanical characterization of materials and salt-related decay forms of the polygonal apse of the 13th-century monastery of Santa María de Bonaval (Guadalajara, Spain), which is primarily affected by salt crystallization. Rock strength is estimated using on-site nondestructive testing (ultrasound pulse velocity and Leeb hardness). They are mapped and combined through map algebra to derive a single mechanical soundness index (MSI) to determine whether the decay of the walls could be dependent on the orientation. The presented results show that salt decay in the building is anisotropic, with the south-facing side of the apse displaying an overall lower MSI than the others. The relative overheating of the south-facing side of the apse enhances the effect of salt crystallization, thereby promoting phase transitions between epsomite and hexahydrite.

Methodology for the Integration of Structural Health Assessment of Masonry Bridges into HBIM

ABSTRACT A methodology is proposed to efficiently develop BIM models of masonry arch bridges, with the objective of generating databases (Level of Information, LoI) associated with 3D geometrical models, incorporating different levels of detail (LoD). The use of parametric libraries is implemented to develop the models. The first step is to perform an experimental campaign to obtain initial data. With these data and the parametric library previously created, a parametric model of the structure is generated (low LoD). A map of the vulnerable areas of the structure is created on this model and the available information is linked to it. A structural model (high LoD) is also created and calibrated. With all this information, an HBIM file is generated. A second experimental campaign is performed on the structure using non-destructive techniques. Point clouds, OMA data, photographs, and visual inspections from the different experimental campaigns are compared to the original HBIM file. In addition, to validate the usefulness of the parametric library, its implementation is carried out on three other historic masonry structures. This comprehensive and technologically advanced approach proves to be a promising strategy for the conservation and sustainable management of architectural heritage.

Research on Pathology Information Management of Educational Architectural Heritage Based on Digital Technology: The Case of James Jackson Gymnasium

Rapid advances in technology have led to an increasing demand for this type of information in the field of cultural heritage and architectural conservation. The article aims to use digital technology to obtain, record, store, and display accurate and intuitive information about architectural heritage for daily management and repair of that heritage. This article conducts a comprehensive and in-depth study of the pathology information from the James Jackson Gymnasium, a typical case of the modern educational architectural heritage of Wuhan. Research contents include obtaining point cloud data through 3D scanning, constructing Building Information Modeling (BIM) 3D models and pathological information models to visualize the affected parts, using the Monument Damage Diagnostic System (MDDS) to establish a pathological information map management system, using virtual simulation technology and digital repair technology to diagnose and repair the affected parts, and establishing a systematic architectural pathology information database to explore the causes of architectural pathology from a multidisciplinary perspective. The authors aim to gradually promote this method and build a systematic pathological information database of architectural heritage. This utilizes the sharing characteristics of information technology to transcend the barriers of time and space and provide important support for heritage protection and pathology management. The Architectural Pathology Information Management System is proposed as an innovative solution to promote the sustainable conservation of architectural heritage through digital technology.

Case Study on Architectural Heritage Conservation Taking Lu Zuofu Memorial Hall as an Example

Through the Lu Zuofu Memorial Hall and architectural heritage related literature research, the background of Lu Zuofu Memorial Hall and the architectural layout of the function of a brief introduction, and then analyze the Lu Zuofu Memorial Hall "protection and reuse" repair and protection methods, as well as Lu Zuofu Memorial Museum will be a combination of cultural display, ideological education, cultural experience and tourism and so on. Analyze the "protection and reuse" protection method of the real needs and with the former planning after the assessment of the renovation and protection of the concept of combination.

Onsite and laboratory assessment of repair mortars for reinforced concrete floor slabs in heritage buildings

The conservation and repair of XX century architectural heritage built with reinforced concrete is becoming more and more important and requires suitable materials and technical solutions. In particular, effectiveness, compatibility and durability must be ensured, in spite of the limited extent of demolition allowed by the local authorities, and the literature in this field is still limited. In this paper, an experimental campaign was carried out in an historic reinforced concrete floor slab, where different repair mortars were used. After some on-site testing on the corrosion potential, the concrete beams of the slab were integrally cut and transported to the laboratory for a series of systematic tests, aimed at investigating the performance and compatibility of the repair materials, as well as any possible issues hindering the success of this structural intervention. The filling ability, physical compatibility, chemical compatibility and mechanical compatibility of the repair mortars and the corrosion behavior of the steel reinforcement were investigated, deriving some results of general interest, which may contribute to a better insight about the repair of heritage concrete floor slabs.

AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH FOR THE SEMANTIC SEGMENTATION OF SURVEYED BUILDING FACADES LEVERAGING ON ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS

Abstract. Traditionally, drawing products created from 3D surveying activities have been the universal medium of communication used by architects. This has resulted in a vast repository of graphic documentation that serves as a testament of the architectural heritage. The embedded information found in elevations, plans and sections holds considerable value, and it can be seamlessly integrated into the intricate graphics produced during large-scale data acquisition processes. The core objective of this research is to investigate how the information coming from the large amount of existing architectural technical drawings can support 3D heritage classification processes and avoid time-consuming annotation of materials and construction techniques of historical building facades. Starting from available sets of drawings, AI-based methodologies are applied for the annotation of orthoimages and point clouds in order to obtain a predictive model that can recognize classes of materials and construction techniques in a large amount of data. The predicted classes also allow the automatic creation of vector drawing representing the facades of new buildings, providing a novel tool to facilitate the processes of analysis and conservation of architectural heritage.

CRAFTING AND MODIFYING RHINE CASTLE MODELS WITH PARAMETRIC MODELING IN BLENDER

Abstract. In the domain of architectural heritage conservation, the recent advancements in 3D modeling have significantly improved the reconstruction fidelity of historical edifices, particularly medieval castles of the Rhine region. The existing traditional 3D modeling methodologies, though precise, are laborious and exceedingly time-consuming, requiring a detailed focus on intricate architectural nuances. Advancements in Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology have played a key role in simplifying this process, offering an adaptable and parametric approach to architectural modeling. Nonetheless, the domain of Historic Building Information Modeling (HBIM) faces the distinctive challenge of scarce parametric object libraries that are suitably representative of historical heritage, compounded by the architectural heterogeneity inherent in these ancient structures.This paper presents a novel methodology utilizing the Blender software suite, with an emphasis on exploiting ”Geometry Nodes” and ”Modifiers” for parametric modeling. We introduce a technique that significantly enhances the efficiency of modeling Rhine castles. This method supports rapid alterations and precise customization, catering to the specific analytical needs of archaeologists and heritage researchers. The proposed approach aims to bridge the gap in HBIM by providing a flexible, dynamic toolset for the accurate digital preservation of historical architecture.

Public Participation in Architectural Heritage Conservation—The Case of Wooden Arch Corridor Bridge “Qiansheng Bridge”

Public participation in the protection of cultural heritage is essential for the further development of sustainable heritage conservation. However, more research is needed on public involvement in heritage protection and issues such as unclear management systems. This paper establishes indicators and a framework for public participation in the protection of cultural heritage, interpreting the connections between factors involved in heritage protection. Using the “Qiansheng Bridge”, one of the wooden arch corridor bridges in Fujian and Zhejiang, China, as a case study, this research builds a system for public participation in heritage protection. It predicts the extent of public involvement in protecting wooden arch corridor bridges in different scenarios. The results indicate that (1) improvements in “science education and publicity”, “management institutions”, “financial investment”, “laws and regulations”, and “business management” enhance the level of public participation in heritage protection; (2) currently, there is not enough room to improve the degree of participation in endogenous power; (3) relying solely on government and expert guidance, without considering other factors, cannot achieve sustainable development; (4) the greater the proportion of endogenous power, the higher the level of public participation in the early periods; the higher the proportion of exogenous power, the better the level of public participation in the middle and late stages.

A HBIM pipeline for the conservation of large-scale architectural heritage: the city Walls of Pisa

In the architectural heritage field, a complete and in-depth knowledge of the assets is indispensable for any restoration and conservation strategy. In this context, the Historical Building Information Modelling (HBIM) technique is gaining much interest in supporting the diagnostic phase and the design and management of conservation activities. The HBIM provides opportunities to collect, organize and integrate information coming from different sources, inspections, and diagnosis techniques as well as to use standardized and effective tools for orienting cultural heritage asset management. This study addresses the challenges of developing HBIM for large-scale assets, that require adapting the conventional workflow to deliver results in a reasonable time. To this aim, a novel procedure involving a fit-for-purpose Inventory form and a scan-to-BIM approach is proposed. The data acquisition process is speeded up using multiple surveying techniques, and the modelling and information phases benefit from the interoperability among different tools that are already known by professionals in the field. As such, the main innovation lies in the ability to oversee the entire process through a single software, ensuring centralized and efficient control. This innovative process has been applied to investigate a significant portion of the city walls of Pisa, proving its ability to support the decision-making phase for planned conservation of large-scale architectural heritage. The emphasis is on the all-encompassing, interdisciplinary understanding of the assets across different scales. The suggested approach ensures a swift yet precise and reliable outcome in the diagnostic process and facilitating the critical temporal assessments and the review of information by any actor involved in the conservation.

Discussion of So-Called “Architectural Heritage DNA” via a Case Study of the Conservation of the Nara Palace Site, Japan

This study introduces a brief history of the discovery of and conservation efforts to preserve the Nara Palace Site in Japan, which brought about the recognition of this heritage site as a World Cultural Heritage location by UNESCO in 1996. Accordingly, the 1994 Nara Document on Authenticity plays an important role in contributing to Japanese cultural heritage conservation achievements, with the expansion of cultural diversity and heritage diversity and the concepts of values and authenticity, which proposed a new orientation in terms of awareness and openness to develop a broader vision when identifying architectural heritage values. Against this background, we first discuss the newly proposed concept of so-called “architectural heritage DNA” and its potential structure, providing a simple formula for appraising the authentic values of architectural heritage conservation works. Working within conservation theory, besides the doctrinal study of the 1994 Nara Document on Authenticity, this study also focuses on other important international conventions, such as the 1964 Venice Charter and the 1999 Burra Charter, to clarify the concepts of conservation, restoration, and reconstruction, adding the concept of inheritance between conservation and development, which addresses the lack of international conventions regarding cultural heritage conservation. The viewpoints expressed in this paper are based on the most common concepts of these international conventions but are interpreted in a novel, understandable, practical, and highly applicable approach suited to both the current socio-political situation and future scenarios.

Enhancing heritage building preservation with MCDM and HBIM: A research proposal

Conservation and management of architectural heritage is gaining importance in the context of responsible development and environmental awareness. The integration of Heritage Building Information Management (HBIM) and Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) is capable of addressing the challenges of heritage preservation decision-making. HBIM, tailored to historic structures, serves as a digital repository of geometric and semantic data of any kind related to these buildings, while MCDM provides a structured framework for decision-making, considering technical and subjective aspects.This research proposal aims to optimize heritage preservation decision-making processes by identifying possible decisions, designing user-oriented workflows, and integrating them into a cohesive framework. This approach seeks to foster collaboration, provide practical guidelines, and contribute to effective informed decision-making by all stakeholders involved in heritage management. Despite limitations, the research proposal has the potential to improve the effective integration of decision-making processes in the management of heritage structures.

Characterization of ready-mixed plasters for the conservation of architectural heritage

Nowadays, the use of ready-mixed mortars is widespread in the choice of materials for the conservation of architectural heritage. These are dry mixtures, which contain binders, aggregates and additives and which require only the addition and mixing with water. Their use makes it possible to avoid errors in the ratios of the components, limits waste and guarantee a constant product quality. On the other hand, there are no standards that require the declaration of all the components in the mixture, which makes difficult to select the most appropriate materials to use on historical substrates. Indeed, the presence of certain additives could alter other properties of the mortars or increase the probability of developing forms of degradation. In addition, the mixtures on the market are frequently labelled as environmentally, human and animal health friendly; but the actual sustainability of these mixtures is difficult to ascertain, because there are still few companies that study the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and publish the Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) of their products. In order to deepen the knowledge of this class of materials, this study proposes the characterization of five ready-mixed plasters, all labelled green by the companies. Analyses (X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, thermal analysis) have been carried out firstly to assess the compatibility of the mixtures with historical materials, to compare the results obtained with what is stated by the companies in the product data sheets, and to assess whether, through routine laboratory analyses, it is possible to certify the sustainability of these materials.

‘Dirt Hovels’ and Cultural Heritage: The Eradication and Inheritance of the Icelandic Turf House

This article explores conflicting views of the Icelandic turf house and how these views relate to notions of corrupt architecture and so-called ‘difficult’ heritage. First, we define the concepts of corrupt and difficult architecture and address their relationship to the discussion of heritage. We assert that this theoretical discussion is highly applicable as regards turf houses, plans for their eradication and measures to protect and preserve them. Next, we examine general attitudes towards turf buildings and several public campaigns to eradicate them, whereby turf is defined as an obstacle to cultural and social progress. Finally, we explore public measures to protect the Icelandic turf house, focusing mainly on the efforts of the National Museum of Iceland, which has a leading role in policy development and conservation of Icelandic architectural heritage.