Integration of BIM and Augmented Reality for the Recovery of Historical Built Heritage: A Research Perspective

Preserving historic built heritage imposes targeted interventions, combining recovery of historical structures with functional adaptation to contemporary needs without compromising their identity. The growing necessity to recover, preserve, and digitise built heritage is driving researchers and companies to explore the integration of advanced 3D modelling methodologies, such as Building Information Modeling, with immersive Augmented Reality visualisation technologies. Their integration can transform the construction sector and the recovery of architectural heritage. The motivation behind the research presented in this paper stems from the need to improve the management of recovery interventions on existing buildings, minimising risks and optimising resources. Thus, the first study’s objective is to investigate how the combined use of BIM and AR can offer efficient and precise solutions through the phases of data gathering, design, digitisation, development of immersive environment, and final product use. Then, how collaboration between academia and companies can provide advantages in solution quality, innovation, knowledge advancement, and access to advanced tools. In this framework, the paper presents the project “Augmented Reality as a decision-support tool for interventions of recovery of historic buildings” that involves Politecnico di Bari and Evholo Srl start-up (Predict SpA). Their previous experiences are detailed to highlight the feasibility of project outcomes, combining traditional and innovative methods and advanced tools to set an integrated and multidisciplinary approach to enhance and preserve historic heritage. The expected outcomes include enhanced architectural heritage conservation through improved technical operational and coordination efficiency, increased digitisation, and reduced costs and time.