Architecture Engineers Award

The rapid diffusion of digital technologies has reshaped urban planning through data-driven and smart city paradigms. However, these approaches often overlook cultural continuity and contextual sensitivity, particularly in historic urban environments. This study responds to this gap by introducing a “wise city” approach that prioritizes heritage values while leveraging advanced digital tools. Focusing on architectural decision-making, the research positions 3D GIS as a bridge between technological efficiency and cultural preservation. Conceptual Framework of the Wise City in Heritage Contexts Unlike smart city models that emphasize efficiency and automation, the wise city concept integrates spatial knowledge, historical continuity, and place identity. Within this framework, architectural design is informed not only by present-day data but also by temporal layers of heritage significance. This study narrows the broader wise city framework to its architectural dimension, demonstratin...

The study explores the evolving role of 3D Gaussian Splatting (3DGS) within digital documentation workflows dominated by LiDAR point clouds, specifically in the context of modern architectural heritage. Using the Bouw pub building in the Netherlands as a case study, the paper critically examines how these two technologies differ and where they can complement each other. Through comparative analysis of acquisition, visualization, segmentation, and dissemination, the research highlights the potential of 3DGS not as a replacement for LiDAR but as a powerful visualization and engagement tool within hybrid workflows. Technological Comparison of 3DGS and LiDAR in Heritage Digitization This topic focuses on evaluating the core technical characteristics of 3D Gaussian Splatting and LiDAR point clouds within architectural heritage documentation. While LiDAR captures structurally accurate, dense geometric data, 3DGS provides real-time, photorealistic rendering that enhances visual perception...