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Recreating Built Heritage for Cities: Creating Accurate HBIM 3D Buildings for Use in Unreal Engine 5

Name: Recreating Built Heritage for Cities: Creating Accurate HBIM 3D Buildings for Use in Unreal Engine 5
Author: Dr. Deborah Wilson
ISBN: 9798868817724

by Dr. Deborah Wilson

October 2025

Intermediate to advanced

657 pages

14h 9m

English

Apress

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Recreating Built Heritage for Cities
Introduction
Chapter OutlinesReferences
Acknowledgments
Table of Contents
About the Author
About the Technical Reviewer
1. What Is HBIM?
Definition and Concept of HBIMInteracting with the ModelCase Study 1: Scan to BIMContent-Based Immersive Experience of the Basilica of Sant’AmbrogioIntroductionObjectives of the StudyMethodologyDigital Data CollectionBuilding Information Modelling (HBIM)Interactive PlatformsKey Features of the Immersive ExperienceImmersive NavigationContent-Rich InteractionMultidisciplinary IntegrationOutcomesCultural PreservationEnhanced Public AccessibilityEducational BenefitsFramework for Future ProjectsImpact and InsightsConclusionContrasting HBIM with BIMCase Study 2: Virtual CitiesBackgroundHowWinchester 1400Winchester 1800PrototypeDesign ProcessThe PossiblesCommercializationWhy Now?The Role of HBIM in Architectural PreservationIntroductionVirtual Reconstruction of Lost ElementsFacilitating Adaptive ReuseEnhanced Collaboration and Decision-MakingHeritage Interpretation and Visualization ProjectsFuture Directions and InnovationsCase Study 3: HBIM in Historical City PlanningExciting Understanding in Pompeii Through On-Site Parallel Interaction with Dual-Time Virtual ModelsOverview and Core ObjectivesTechnological InnovationsCase Study: Casa del CentenarioData Collection and MethodologiesVisitor Experience and ImpactChallenges and LimitationsFuture DirectionsConclusionSummaryReferences
2. History and Benefits of HBIM
The Evolution of HBIM in the Preservation IndustryEarly Developments in Digital ModellingKey Milestones in HBIM DevelopmentImplementationCollaboration and Interdisciplinary ApplicationsAdvances in Visualization and SimulationSummaryAdvantages and Challenges of Implementing HBIMChallenges and Limitations of HBIMThe Challenges of Architectural PreservationAdvantages of Implementing HBIMAddressing Challenges Through InnovationAdvancing TechnologyExpanding LibrariesTraining and EducationCollaborative FrameworksFunding and SupportEducation and Training in HBIMGlobal Developments and ApplicationsSummaryChapter 2 Durham Cathedral Case Study: Advantages and Challenges of Implementing HBIMThe Complexities of Managing Historic Buildings with BIMIntroductionObjectives of the StudyMethodologyLiterature ReviewCase Studies and InterviewsAnalysis of BIM MethodologiesKey Challenges IdentifiedData Capture and AccuracyData IntegrationStakeholder CollaborationCost and Resource ConstraintsAdapting BIM for Heritage ContextsStrategies for Overcoming ChallengesLeveraging Advanced TechnologiesDeveloping Tailored WorkflowsEnhancing Stakeholder CollaborationCost Management and ScalingKey Benefits of BIM in Historic Building ManagementImproved Documentation and AnalysisEnhanced Decision-MakingGreater Public EngagementFuture-Proofing Heritage ManagementConclusion and InsightsSuccessful Case Studies of BIM, HBIM, and VR Visualization ApplicationsCase Study 1: HBIM Modelling of the Wang Temple in Karpacz1. Introduction2. Historical Significance and Challenges3. HBIM Implementation4. HBIM Model Benefits5. Innovation and Future Applications6. ConclusionCase Study 2: 3D Digitization of the Church in Iwięcino, Poland1. Introduction2. Historical Significance3. Digitization Process4. Digital Deliverables5. Benefits and Future Potential6. ConclusionCase Study 3: HBIM Modelling of Big Ben1. Introduction2. Project Scope and Challenges3. The Role of HBIM4. Key HBIM Applications5. Benefits of HBIM6. Lessons Learned7. ConclusionCase Study 4: 3D Digitization of Hyde Abbey, Winchester, Hampshire1. Introduction2. Historical Significance3. Digitization Process4. Digital Deliverables5. Benefits and Future Potential6. ConclusionCase Study 5: Notre-Dame Cathedral RestorationRole of HBIM in the Restoration ProcessEmergency Assessment1. Collaboration and Coordination2. Restoration Planning3. Broader ImplicationsSummaryReferences
3. Creating an HBIM 3D Model for a City Across Different Eras
Overview of the Reconstruction ProcessDefining the Project Scope and Historical ContextHistorical Research and Data CollectionScoping the Reconstruction ProcessSelecting the Time Periods for ReconstructionImportance of Historical Research in Era SelectionStructuring the HBIM Model by Time PeriodStep 1: Prepare Your Phased Model in RevitStep 2: Export to Datasmith Using Revit 2024Step 3: Import into Unreal EngineStep 4: Optimize the Unreal Scene, Level by LevelStep 1: Understand the Project TimelineStep 2: Set up Phases in RevitStep 3: Assign Phases in ElementsStep 4: Manage View Settings for ClarityStep 5: Use Phase Graphics for Visual ClarityStep 6: Annotate the TimelineStep 7: Export for Unreal Engine (Datasmith Workflow)Quick Tips for Historical Rebuilding PlansIntegrating Historical Research with HBIMConstructing the HBIM ModelValidating the Model Against Historical DataVisualization and Interactive PresentationSummaryReferences
4. Step One: Data Collection
Gathering Historical Documents, Architectural Plans, and VisualsSteventon RectoryWinchester CastleRecording the Data for Embedding into the Unreal ScenesFinding the Answers and Substantiating DataSection SummaryUtilizing Photogrammetry and LiDAR TechnologyWhen to Model from ScratchWhen to Use LiDAR or PhotogrammetryStep 1: Preparing LiDAR Data for Unreal Engine1.1 Convert LiDAR Point Cloud to Mesh1.2 Optimize Mesh for UnrealStep 2: Preparing Photogrammetry Data for Unreal Engine2.1 Process the Photogrammetry Scan2.2 Clean and Optimize the MeshStep 3: Importing into Unreal Engine3.1 Import Mesh into Unreal Engine3.2 Apply Materials and TexturesStep 4: Enhancing and Optimizing in Unreal Engine4.1 Use Nanite for Large Models4.2 Improve Performance4.3 Add Interactivity and StorytellingSummary: Best WorkflowExample Workflow for Integrating a Scanned Historical Building into Unreal EngineStep 1: Capturing the Historical Building1.1 LiDAR Scan for Structural Accuracy1.2 Photogrammetry for Surface DetailsStep 2: Processing the Scan Data2.1 Convert LiDAR to Usable Mesh2.2 Optimize the Photogrammetry ModelStep 3: Importing into Unreal Engine3.1 Setting Up the Project3.2 Optimizing the Building Model3.3 Applying Materials and LightingStep 4: Enhancing the Experience in Unreal4.1 Adding Interactivity with Blueprints4.2 Optimizing PerformanceStep 5: Final Export and DeploymentSummary WorkflowCommon Issues When Importing LiDAR Data into Unreal EngineSection SummaryCollecting Geographic and Spatial DataHeightmap Data LimitationsTerrain Modification and DetailingKey ConsiderationsIn SummaryGIS-Based Georeferencing (Most Accurate and Scalable)Using Revit or AutoCAD for Alignment (CAD Workflow)Image Processing Automation with OpenCV (Fastest for Large Projects)Blender Projection Mapping (For 3D Surface Alignment)Which One to Choose?Creating the LandscapeCreating Your Landscape in Unreal EngineTips for RealismExampleCesium Step-by-Step Guide1. Prerequisites2. Installing the Cesium for Unreal Plug-in3. Connecting to Cesium ion4. Adding Geospatial Data5. Adjusting SettingsKey ConsiderationsCesium: How to Hide Buildings by Disabling the Cesium OSM Buildings LayerSection SummaryReferences

5. Step Two: Pre-processing
Data PreparationPhase 1: Understanding the Requirements and Defining the DataStep 1: Identify the Specific Nonstandard Material(s)Step 2: Determine the Relevant Properties and CharacteristicsStep 3: Prioritize Data RequirementsStep 4: Define Data Types and UnitsPhase 2: Creating the Data Object Parameters in Your BIM SoftwareStep 5: Accessing Parameter ManagementStep 6: Creating New Parameter Groups (Optional but Recommended)Step 7: Creating Individual Project Parameters for Each Defined PropertyStep 8: Implementing Value Lists or Look-up Tables (Where Applicable)Step 9: Adding Constraints and Validation Rules (If Necessary)Step 10: Applying the Parameters to Wall Objects in Your ModelPhase 3: Data Management and UtilizationStep 11: Establish Data Entry ProtocolsStep 12: Quality Control and Data ValidationStep 13: Utilize the Data for Analysis and ReportingStep 14: Iterate and RefineExample Scenario: Documenting a Wattle and Daub WallKey Considerations for HBIM and Nonstandard MaterialsWallsWall Duplicating and Editing Step-by-Step GuideSection SummaryHow to Manage Incomplete or Missing DataA Step-by-Step Guide – Student BasedStep-by-Step Guide (For Students to Consider Regarding Missing Data)Example ScenarioAdding Data As It Becomes AvailableStep-by-Step Workflow for a Revit–Unreal Link (Update-Friendly)Mini Tutorial: Revit to Unreal with Update-Friendly Datasmith WorkflowWhat You Will CreateStep-by-Step TutorialSection SummaryGeoreferencing and Aligning DatasetsConverting 2D CAD Drawings for GIS IntegrationIntegrating Point Clouds with GISStep-by-Step Guide: Georeferencing Historical Maps in QGISStep-by-Step Guide: Using CADmapper to Create a ToposolidOptional Bonus: Link Instead of ImportSculpting Imported Revit Terrain in Unreal and Using Historic Maps As OverlaysSection SummaryReferences
6. Step Three: Building the 3D Model
Starting to Build with Your HBIM SoftwareBuilding Steventon Rectory – Step-by-Step ExerciseStep 1. Starting Your Project in Autodesk Revit 2024Step 2. Start Building the RectoryStep 3. Rectory WallsA Layered Wall of Brick and FlintStep 4. FloorsStep 5. Windows and DoorsStep 6. ChimneysStep 7. StaircasesStep 8. Second Floor LayoutStep 9. Creating the RoofStep 10. Attic LayoutSection SummaryCreating a Detailed Building GeometrySetting the Stage: The Essence of 16th/17th-Century Building for Storytelling and Recording for Future InformationConsiderations for Further Research: Detailed Architectural ElementsInterior Visual ReferenceAdding Detail to Steventon Rectory – Step-by-Step ExerciseStep 1. Exterior Detail – DormersStep 2. Exterior Detail – Fascias, Bargeboards, Guttering, and SoffitsSoffitsFasciasGutteringStep 3. Exterior Detail: Windows, Sills, Lintels, and QuoinsLintelsSillsQuoinsFront PorchChimney StacksInterior DetailsStep 4. Interior Details: Ceilings and Floor FinishCeilingsFloor FinishStep 5. Interior Details: Panelling and TrimPanellingWall FinishesCovingStep 6. Interior Details: Fitted Elements – Built-In Shelving, Wall NichesWall NichesWall Framing for the Niche (Also Useful for Door Frames)Built-In ShelvingPicture FramesWall Candle SconcesSection SummaryIncorporating Historically Accurate Vernacular Materials and TexturesCommon Exterior Materials (16th- to 17th-century Hampshire)Common Interior MaterialsCreating Materials and TexturesImplementation in Unreal EngineOptional Advanced TipsStep-by-Step Guide to Creating Master Materials in UnrealStep 1: Prepare Your Texture MapsStep 2: Create a Master MaterialStep 3: Set Up Base Material NodesStep 4: Importing via DatasmithStep 5: Adding Your Material and Creating Additional MaterialsStep 6: Create Material InstanceSection SummaryReferencesLinks to Revit Family ObjectsLinks to Materials and Textures Assets
7. Step Four: Adding Context
Integrating Surrounding Landscapes and Urban FeaturesCopying Your ProjectInitiating the Landscape for Steventon RectoryLayering Images to Guide Placement of the RectoryDeveloping Your Steventon Rectory Rural LandscapeStep by Step Modifying and Adding to Your Rural Rectory LandscapeStep 1: Sculpting your immediate surroundingsNow to Add Landscape Objects Using Foliage ModeThe next objects to add are the outbuildings and side wallSection SummaryIntegrating Urban Features and Infrastructure8 College Street Drawing Room InteriorCopying Content from One Level to AnotherAdding Street Furniture to College StreetCreating a Horse TroughAdding the Drinking FountainCreating or Adding the BollardsOther EntitiesCreating the Portal Between 8 College Street and Steventon RectoryStep-by-Step Guide for Creating an Open Level Portal (Simple Portal System)Step-by-Step Guide to Create a Reusable BP_PortalMethod Overview for Level Streaming (Advanced/Seamless Transition)Section SummaryCapturing Historical, Social, and Cultural ContextBeginner's Guide: HBIM Data Pop-up Panel in Unreal EngineOverviewPart 1: Project Setup and PreparationPart 2: Creating the Pop-up WidgetPart 3: Creating the Interaction SystemPart 4: Connecting Everything TogetherPart 5: Testing and RefinementSummaryCreating the Story for the Time Travel to Steventon RectoryJane and Cassandra: A Memory of Cousin Jane's Wedding – A Scene Script for Virtual Steventon Rectory ExperienceTechnical Notes for Virtual ExperienceSection SummaryDocumentation GlossaryReferencesImages3D Models
8. Step Five: Post-processing and Analysis
Refining the HBIM ModelExporting via Datasmith from Revit to UnrealHBIM Data FeedbackSection SummaryAssessing Historical Accuracy and Preservation NeedsAssessing Historical AccuracyThe Pluses and Minuses of Virtual Reconstructed Scenes Relating to Historical AccuracyPreservation NeedsThe London Charter for the Computer-Based Visualisation of Cultural Heritage PrinciplesSection SummaryReferences
9. Conclusion
Recapitulation of Key Findings and InsightsPrimary FindingsSecondary FindingsStrategic ImplicationsFuture Research DirectionsConclusion for Primary and Secondary FindingsSoftware Recommendations for HBIM Heritage VisualizationImmediate Implementation (0–6 Months)Complementary Tools IntegrationShort-Term Development (6–18 months)Enhanced Workflow AutomationSpecialized Heritage ToolsTraining and Knowledge TransferMedium-Term Innovation (18 months–3 years)Advanced Integration CapabilitiesCollaborative PlatformsSoftware-Specific RecommendationsImplementation Priorities by Project TypeQuality Assurance and ValidationRisk Management and Contingency PlanningConclusionReflection on the Significance of Recreating Architectural Time PeriodsPersonal Reflection on the Evolving Role of the PractitionerWhy Is It Significant to Recreate Historical Buildings, Spaces, and Places in Different Time Periods?Building a Library of Reusable AssetsConclusion: Reflecting on the Significance of Recreating Architectural Time PeriodsFuture Directions in HBIM and Architectural PreservationBackward Compatibility and Consistency Built into All Later Versions of SoftwarePossibility of a Future Open Access HBIM RepositoryOther Future Areas for Focus and ConsiderationFuture RecommendationsFuture of Digital Heritage Storytelling – A Personal AimReferences
Index

Content preview from Recreating Built Heritage for Cities: Creating Accurate HBIM 3D Buildings for Use in Unreal Engine 5

Acknowledgments

I would like to express my gratitude to Spandana Chatterjee, Acquisitions Editor at Apress, for the opportunity to publish this book. I would also like to thank Deepa Shirley Tryphosa Chellappa for her guidance and feedback and Scott Rafferty, Technical Reviewer, for his thorough and in-depth feedback and encouraging words for several of the chapters.

I would like to thank my student Thomas Dulkys for agreeing to allow his project work with Winchester Castle to be included as an example of the work we have been doing on the Virtual Cities – Winchester 1400 and 1800 project.

I would also like to thank the experts who provided such excellent feedback and encouragement for the Steventon Rectory and HBIM work: Jane Austen House, Chawton, ...

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Recreating Built Heritage for Cities: Creating Accurate HBIM 3D Buildings for Use in Unreal Engine 5

by Dr. Deborah Wilson

Acknowledgments

Become an O’Reilly member and get unlimited access to this title plus top books and audiobooks from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers, thousands of courses curated by job role, 150+ live events each month,
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