Undrawable Architecture – Digital Workflows for the Conservation of Heritage Buildings and the Discovery of Digital Tectonic

This paper presents a datacentric perspective to historical building conservation using digital media. In particular we explore a workflow based on large volumes digital data acquired via 3D scanning technology, virtual restoration using 3D modelling and physical artefact reconstruction using 3D printing technology. We offer an alternative perspective in contrast to the prevalent approach of reverse engineering or geometric rationalization via parametric design technology; highlight the research and design opportunities as well as the challenges of the approach.