3D Laser Scanning for Historical Preservation and Archival Reconstruction Drawings

Abstract. 3D laser scanning technology has significantly transformed the fields of architecture and historic preservation by providing a precise, efficient, and non-invasive method for capturing complex three-dimensional spatial data. This technology facilitates comprehensive documentation of architectural and heritage sites, thereby advancing preservation, restoration, and maintenance efforts. This paper presents four case studies that illustrate the varied applications and efficacy of 3D laser scanning in archival documentation and historical reconstruction:

1. The second-century Roman bath and mosaic at Isthmia, Greece
2. The eighteenth-century Pancha Deval Hindu temples in Kathmandu, Nepal
3. The 1845 cabins at Cane River Creole National Historical Park in Natchitoches, Louisiana
4. The 1903 Galveston Historic Fire Station No. 3 in Galveston, Texas

Through these examples, this paper will demonstrate the long-term value of 3D laser scanning in preservation practice. Moreover, the integration of this technology into academic settings enhances experiential learning, allowing students and professionals to engage directly with real-world preservation challenges. By bridging digital innovation with traditional architectural methodologies, 3D laser scanning promotes interdisciplinary collaboration across architecture, landscape architecture, urban planning, and related fields.