How Scan to BIM Technology is Revolutionising Architectural Restoration Projects

Preservation is crucial for successful architectural restoration projects. However, this isn’t always easy, with intrusive procedures and plenty of foot traffic making it hard to complete a restoration without causing damage.

As technology advances, though, architects are turning to digital methods to improve the efficacy of their work. This includes Scan to BIM, a revolutionary tech that could transform how we conserve and restore heritage buildings.

What is Scan to BIM?

Scan to BIM is an innovative method of creating highly detailed, highly accurate 3D models of buildings and landscapes. 

For Building Information Modelling (BIM), structures are created using laser scanners to map an area digitally. Experts then develop the map into a model, adding details such as dimensions, features, and materials to create a comprehensive site walk-through.

It provides a more cost-effective and efficient alternative to traditional laser measuring, streamlining workflows across construction, renovation, and facility management.

– Tim Brickle, CEO & Founder of 3D Walkabout

It improves accuracy, reduces manual errors, and provides a data-rich model that a wide range of professionals can use to enhance project development.

How Does Scan to BIM Work?

Scam to BIM isn’t a technology, but a service. For restoration projects, you can work with trained Scan to BIM teams to produce detailed 3D models of your architectural space. They’ll carry out a range of tasks to create your model, including:

1. Laser Point Scanning

Your scan-to-BIM team will start by using lasers to map out the restoration site. This can be done with hand-held devices and tripods or by attaching lasers to drones. The latter is especially useful for limited access to large sites or buildings.

Once completed, you’ll have a point cloud map. This is a basic model composed of numerous dots, used to measure the dimensions and elements of the property.

2. Data Processing

The point cloud alone is useful for giving you a basic overview of the space, but it isn’t very detailed. This is why it undergoes data processing and modelling. Your scan-to-BIM team will assess the data and align points, usually with the help of handy software.

3. BIM Modelling

Once your point cloud has been processed, it’ll then be turned into a fully fledged BIM model.

This is done by converting the scanned data into a structured 3D representation using specialised software. Every element, including walls, windows, doors, structural components, and MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) systems, is modelled to scale.

This detailed digital twin not only reflects the site’s physical dimensions and layout but also incorporates valuable metadata (information about the data, such as properties and materials) for more accurate planning.

Why Use Scan to BIM for Architectural Restoration?

Scan to BIM is becoming increasingly popular in the architectural world, particularly for restoration projects. Whether you’re working on a listed building or helping clients maintain a UNESCO heritage site, you can use this tech to enhance your design process.

But how exactly could it help?

Let’s take a closer look:

1. Reduce Traffic On Site

One of the biggest advantages of Scan to BIM is how quick and low-impact the process can be.

With a few scanners placed in each room, there’s no need for scaffolding or heavy machinery, and the entire site can be mapped with minimal disruption. These scanners rotate independently to record every angle, making the whole process very ‘hands-off’. 

Once the point cloud is captured, the job on-site is done. There’s no need for repeat visits from your Scan to BIM team, and you’ll have all the accurate measurements and detailed data you need to move forward.

This greatly reduces traffic moving around the property, which is a huge perk if you’re working on a heritage or conservation site (including the land around the building). Less disruption means lower risk of damage, and adopting Scan to BIM shows your dedication to protecting and preserving important spaces.

2. Get to Know Your Restoration Site

Scan to BIM creates incredibly detailed maps, helping you uncover all the hidden features of your building. This is particularly useful in restoration properties, as old blueprints don’t always tell the whole truth about the space. Who knows when pipework that’s been out of use for 200 years will pop up?

Reveal hidden elements and develop a deeper understanding of the building’s foundations, using this to guide you as you develop architectural plans.

3. Enhance Documentation Accuracy

Mapping historical buildings brings architectural benefits and perks to the wider community, providing information on how the space changes throughout history. With a detailed digital model, you can update old blueprints and document the exact state of the property.

You can make future work easier, too, ensuring changes are respectful of the building’s original character and compliant with legal and heritage standards. When it comes to gaining planning permission and proving compliance, you’ll be happy to have reliable documents at the ready to support your decision-making.

4. Improve Collaboration

With a digital model accessible to everyone, Scan to BIM opens the door to smoother communication. Architects, engineers, contractors, and conservationists can all work from the same source, ensuring alignment from the very beginning.

This not only makes workflows smoother, but also allows you to team up with top talent around the world. No matter where your team is, they can explore the site virtually and contribute to the planning process using online tools for efficient, coordinated collaboration that isn’t held back by borders.

5. Make More Informed Decisions

When you have a complete and precise digital twin of your building, you have a wealth of knowledge to inform your designs. Use your map to explore how new additions would integrate into the existing space and where there might be issues due to dimensions or hidden elements.

You can even use your 3D model to test design ideas before starting any on-site work. Trial layouts, play around with material choices, and make restorative decisions based on accurate data.

6. Reduce Mistakes Down the Line

Unexpected surprises are all too common in restoration projects, especially when working with centuries-old buildings. Scan to BIM reduces what you don’t know by giving you a precise, comprehensive picture of the building from the outset.

By capturing even the smallest details, you can spot issues early on that might otherwise go unnoticed until much later. This could be anything from slight structural misalignments to undocumented elements or inconsistencies between the original plans and current conditions.

With this insight, your team can flag potential problems and adjust designs before construction begins, avoiding the cost and time associated with rework. It’s not just about catching mistakes; it’s about thoughtful planning, reducing risk, and delivering a restoration that’s accurate down to the millimetre.

Final Thoughts

Scan to BIM is one of many technologies shaping the architecture and construction industries, but its applications are unique. For restoration projects, the ability to reduce traffic and protect your site while still creating accurate, digital blueprints is an opportunity that’s hard to pass up.