Exploring Heritage Building Information Modelling (HBIM) for Architectural Heritage Documentation and Conservation at The Cyprus Institute

From 4 to 15 Mai 2026, I had the opportunity to participate in the ATRIUM Transnational Access (TNA) program at The Cyprus Institute in Nicosia, Cyprus. My research stay was hosted by the Virtual Environments Laboratory (VELab), where I collaborated with researchers specializing in digital heritage documentation, HBIM methodologies, photogrammetry, and cultural heritage digitization.

The aim of my visit was to deepen my understanding of Heritage Building Information Modelling (HBIM) workflows for architectural heritage documentation and conservation, with a particular focus on the integration of photogrammetry, point cloud processing, and BIM modelling in historic architecture.

As a PhD candidate at the Faculty of Architecture and Design STU Bratislava, my dissertation research focuses on historical units of measurement and proportional systems in noble rural residences in Slovakia. The ATRIUM TNA provided an important opportunity to connect my ongoing research with advanced digital heritage methodologies and contemporary HBIM practices.

Research Activities

During my research stay at VELab, I collaborated with researchers and specialists from VELab and was introduced to ongoing projects focused on digital heritage documentation and HBIM implementation. I worked with point cloud data obtained through photogrammetry and laser scanning and learned how to process and interpret this data within Autodesk Revit. A significant part of the stay focused on practical HBIM modelling, including the creation of parametric architectural components for historic structures and the modelling of architectural details directly from point cloud datasets. The training activities also explored the differences between conventional BIM and HBIM approaches. Unlike standard BIM used in cotemporary architecture, HBIM must respond to irregular historic geometries, deformations and incomplete documentation. Through practical exercises, I gained experience with importing and managing point cloud data, creating parametric families, modelling historic windows and elements and balancing geometric accuracy with practical usability of the model.

Conclusion and Acknowledgements

The research stay significantly expanded my practical skills in HBIM modelling and provided valuable insight into current international approaches to heritage digitization and conservation technologies. The experience also confirmed the strong potential of HBIM methodologies for future applications in Slovak heritage research and restoration practice. I would like to sincerely thank the team at the Virtual Environments Laboratory (VELab) at The Cyprus Institute for their support, guidance, expertise, and welcoming environment throughout the research stay. Special thanks belong to Georgios Artopoulos, Kristis Alexandrou and the VELab team for their valuable discussions and assistance during the program.