Historical Building 3D Reconstruction for a Virtual Reality-based Documentation

Abstract

An innovative preservation approach was proposed to document historical buildings in 3D model, and to present it virtually. The approach was applied to the Lawang Sewu building, one of the architectural masterpieces that is part of Indonesian history. Virtual Reality (VR) technology was used to create a Lawang Sewu VR application program that allows users to virtually walk around the building. A new method for 3D reconstruction was proposed, where data of photo, video and miniature documentation, as well as notes collected from observations were used as the main reference. Meanwhile, architectural record data was used in cases where information cannot be obtained through the main reference. The proposed method focuses on traditional techniques, both at the data acquisition and 3D modelling stages. Poly modelling techniques were chosen for 3D reconstruction. The poly modelling technique was chosen based on its ease and flexibility in controlling the number of polys in 3D models, and was suitable to be applied for repetitive spatial typologies, such as the Lawang Sewu building. After given textures, the 3D model was sent to the VR editor. In addition of running on the desktop platform, Head Mounted Device (HMD) that supports the creation of an immersive experience, was also chosen to run the Lawang Sewu VR. The evaluation carried out to measure the level of similarity of the 3D model to the original building and the sensation of an immersive experience felt by the user shows good achievements.