Renovation of Historical Buildings on Gulangyu Island (Xiamen,China)

Project Date: May of 2015

Project Location:  Gulangyu Island, Xiamen, China

Project Scope: All at-grade and subterranean levels 

Gulangyu Island is well-known for being a "gathering place of international architecture," with over 1,000 modern and contemporary buildings that showcase rich historical and cultural heritages. The island features a complex terrain and diversified architectural styles as well as several visually discordant structures. These buildings represent valuable historical heritage, reflecting the fusion and innovation of different cultures, though they pose challenges for Gulangyu's bid for UNESCO World Heritage status. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain a balanced approach between renovation and preservation, ensuring that the unique cultural value of the island is retained and promoted for future generations.

Bimodeling utilized the 3D laser scanning technology to provide the most optimal solution for this complex situation, having completed the scanning of over 70 buildings on Gulangyu Island. This data supported the renovation of the buildings and the application for World Cultural Heritage status.

Project Details:

The Gulangyu Island project involved 3D scanning of over 70 buildings, capturing both the facades and the floor plans which covered a total area of 53,000 m² (~ 570487.25 sqft) . Bimodeling completed the project in 21 days, with 6 days dedicated to 3D scanning and 15 days for CAD drawing. The final deliverables included a 3D colored point cloud database and AutoCAD drawings, consolidating a solid data foundation for subsequent building renovations and management.