Digital heritage construction: Testing the heritage value of construction documentation and building processes through Virtual Reality

Abstract

This research paper examines the heritage value of construction documentation and processes via Virtual Reality (VR), with a focus on the Sydney Opera House (SOH). It underscores the importance of comprehending and documenting transient construction techniques for heritage valuation. Utilising VR, the study offers an immersive portrayal of the SOH’s construction, emphasising its innovative methods, craftsmanship, and environmental challenges. The paper draws from the Digital Heritage Construction project, showcased at the Heritage Exposition of the ICOMOS General Assembly 2023. This project featured two VR simulations, developed through analysing 200 original shop drawings, historical photographs, and site minutes and reports. The first simulation illustrates the formwork systems used for the SOH’s iconic sails, while the second elucidates the assembly methods for the precast vaulted roofs, including the operation of the telescopic erection arch and the installation of concrete segments. The paper examines the novelty of this approach through a survey conducted at the Heritage Exposition. Analysis of the survey’s result reveals VR’s effectiveness in deepening the appreciation of architectural heritage’s intangible qualities, providing new insights into the historical construction processes of the building and their cultural significance.

Keywords

Digital heritage / Virtual reality / Construction history / Cultural significance / Twentieth century / Intangible heritage / Archival studies

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