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Advances in Geomatics Data Acquisition for Architectural Heritage: A Critical Review Toward Sustainable, Data-Driven Conservation

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  • Agustí Costa-Jover

    (Technical School of Architecture, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Av. Universitat 1, Campus de Bellissens, 43204 Reus, Spain
    Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Division of Geotechnical Engineering and Geosciences, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya–Barcelona Tech, EPSEB, Av. Dr. Marañón 44-50, 08028 Barcelona, Spain)

  • M. Amparo Núñez-Andrés

    (Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Division of Geotechnical Engineering and Geosciences, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya–Barcelona Tech, EPSEB, Av. Dr. Marañón 44-50, 08028 Barcelona, Spain)

  • Felipe Buill Pozuelo

    (Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Division of Geotechnical Engineering and Geosciences, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya–Barcelona Tech, EPSEB, Av. Dr. Marañón 44-50, 08028 Barcelona, Spain)

Abstract

This article presents a critical analysis of the evolution of geomatics data acquisition technologies in architectural heritage. The review traces this progression from 15th-century scientific drawings through discrete surveying methods and early analogue photogrammetry, culminating in modern massive capture systems such as digital photogrammetry and laser scanning. These advanced techniques have fundamentally transformed traditional approaches to 3D modelling. Based on the recent literature, we explore how this data is increasingly integrated into heritage building information modelling (HBIM), digital twins, and AI-based tools, driving a paradigm shift in the development of sustainable conservation strategies for historic buildings. Finally, while digital tools can actively reduce the environmental impact of buildings, we critically weigh these benefits against the direct energy and carbon costs of the digitisation process itself.

Suggested Citation

  • Agustí Costa-Jover & M. Amparo Núñez-Andrés & Felipe Buill Pozuelo, 2026. "Advances in Geomatics Data Acquisition for Architectural Heritage: A Critical Review Toward Sustainable, Data-Driven Conservation," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 18(6), pages 1-15, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:18:y:2026:i:6:p:3003-:d:1898585
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