Advanced Research and Design Tools for Architectural Heritage: Unforeseen Paths (Design and the Built Environment)

Advanced Research and Design Tools for Architectural Heritage: Unforeseen Paths rethinks how to analyse, preserve, and adapt Architectural Heritage and its surroundings along unforeseen paths using a broad spectrum of advanced research and design tools. By delving into conceptual foundations and recent applications, it transcends disciplinary boundaries and leverages advanced design tools, such as space syntax, natural language processing, advanced photogrammetry, heritage building information modelling, and virtual reality.

This book offers a comprehensive collection of collaborative research studies by a team of scholars with diverse perspectives and digital expertise from long-term projects. Encompassing case studies and recent academic experiences, the volume explores notable heritage sites in Europe, Asia, and Africa. Readers are afforded a nuanced understanding of integrated tools through a forward-looking approach. By addressing critical heritage challenges, the book contributes to reshaping architecture discourse and practice.

The chapters explore the integration of advanced methodologies to address emerging societal concerns, making the book a valuable resource for architecture, archaeology, urban planning, catering to professors, trainers, and students. Additionally, its relevance extends to practitioners interested in cultural studies, urban policies, and data science, including archivists, representatives from public governmental authorities, and policy stakeholders.

Stefania Stellacci is an Integrated Researcher at ISTAR (Information Sciences, Technologies and Architecture Research Center) at Iscte (University Institute of Lisbon) and Invited Professor (2021–23) at Iscte. She is an architect with a MSc in Architecture (University of Ferrara, 2006), holds a postgraduate degree in Built Conservation (Roma3 University, 2007) and a PhD in Architecture (Iscte, 2018). Her research spans across critical heritage studies, multiple-criteria decision analysis, sustainable heritage management, inclusive design, and digital transformation.

Danilo Giglitto is an Associate Lecturer at Sheffield Hallam University, UK. Danilo holds a PhD from the University of Aberdeen (2017). He has several years of experience in researching at the intersection of cultural heritage, digital technologies, and social innovation, and has collaborated in several international projects exploring these themes. He has previously co-edited a book titled Digital Approaches to Inclusion and Participation in Cultural Heritage: Insights from Research and Practice in Europe (Routledge, 2023). He has published in reputable journals such as the International Journal of Heritage Studies and Museum & Society.

Chiara Piccoli is a Research Fellow and Data Scientist at the 4D Research Lab, and an affiliated researcher at the University of Amsterdam’s Data Science Centre. Her research primarily focuses on urban and domestic contexts and on the use of 3D modelling and GIS mapping for historical data visualisation, analysis, and communication. Chiara holds a PhD in Archaeology (Leiden University, 2018), an MA in Archaeology (University of Siena, 2008) and an MA in Book and Digital Media Studies (Leiden University, 2010).