The Building Conservation Directory 2022

INTER IORS 5 161 C AT H E D R A L C O MM U N I C AT I O N S T H E B U I L D I N G C O N S E R VAT I O N D I R E C T O R Y 2 0 2 2 energy and stamina on the roughing out phases, while preserving the strength and concentration for where it is most required: the final hand carved detail. In a modern world where traditional process is increasingly too costly and time consuming to be a viable option in projects, there is great value in that. OTHER BENEFITS OF DIGITAL While this ‘behind-the-scenes’ use of CNC cutting is worthwhile enough on its own, the digital process that powers it has numerous other capabilities and advantages. Minimising intervention 3D scanning and digital production is ideally suited to the repair and restoration of damage where the original form of the missing material can be determined, as it enables the creation of exact copies of missing areas. In conventional restoration work, the process typically requires the removal of even more original timber to form a clean interface between old and new. While this approach may make the repair easier to execute, it takes away material that would ideally be conserved. Digital 3D scanning enables the capture of even the most complex interfaces with incredible accuracy, enabling the CNC cutting of timber to form an exact counterpart to the damaged surface. Consequently, areas of damage can be restored to a complete design in a matching timber, while minimising the need to cut away existing material. Digital modelling With a digital core at the heart of the production process, a wealth of new options become possible. Digital 3D scanning provides data which can be used to create a 3D digital counterpart to the proposed real word artefact. This digital model enables inspection and examination of projects at a very early stage. Before a single piece of wood is even cut, the project can be viewed and appraised in great detail. Photo-real CGI visualisations can be made, along with scale-accurate 3D printed models and drawings, to enable thorough inspection of the planned production process. This ability to share and discuss at this early stage brings the opportunity to adapt and fine tune planned works, ensuring a successful outcome. Importantly, it removes uncertainty and the risk of expensive alterations mid-build, promoting peace of mind and confidence in a mutual understanding of the project’s outcomes. With a digital workflow comes certainty. Timings for the creation of even the most ornate features become a known quantity. The ever-present danger of projects costing more and taking longer are greatly reduced. Scanning as safeguarding In addition to its role in restorative repair work, the 3D digital model is also a valuable tool for safeguarding against future damage. By making a detailed scan of the full surface of an item, a digital safeguard is created that can then facilitate authentic replication and repair. It can be used to produce an accurate record of the historical architectural detail of a building and its features. This archive can serve as a reference in the event of accident or and also becomes a valuable asset for other uses such as education and research. The scanning process is light based and entirely non-contact, removing the risks of surface damage. SUMMARY Digital technology offers a wealth of new possibilities, and with careful consideration they can have a positive role to play in conservation alongside traditional techniques and methods. Rather than offering a poor substitute, it can provide an efficient platform for the continuation of historic processes. Much time has passed since hand carving and the creation of ornate architectural features was a widespread feature of architectural design, and even its role as a conservation technique is facing fresh challenges. With increasing skill-shortages for the conservation of historic buildings, as well as the cost and time implications of traditional processes, many conservation projects find they are without an attractive route for the repair and restoration of many features. So, in finding modern approaches within this most ancient of traditional crafts, there is perhaps a role for digital technology to play in the continuation of conservation projects. Far from bringing about the demise of traditional processes, it can help traditional craftspeople to meet the challenges of the modern conservation industry. By offering a more adaptable and efficient solution in conservation projects it can preserve the longevity of ancient craftsmanship. 3D digital model Greg Meeson of Refinery uses a handheld 3D scanner to capture the 3D form of ornate features