Vanier College - E Building
Client / Collaborator
DMA Architectes
Sector
Architecture, Institutionnel, Patrimoine
Location
Montreal
Services
Relevé LiDAR, Photogrammetrie
Mandate
As graduates of Vanier College, we had long wanted to contribute to a concrete project on campus. Under the direction of DMA Architects, we produced the complete documentation for the three facades of Block E.
The objective was clear: to see, document, be able to measure, and to draw each stone. This required a 3D scanning with very high density, high accuracy, and coverage without missing areas, in order to support the planning of a facade renovation and the monitoring of the condition of the masonry.
Mandate
As graduates of Vanier College, we had long wanted to contribute to a concrete project on campus. Under the direction of DMA Architects, we produced the complete documentation for the three facades of Block E.
The objective was clear: to see, document, be able to measure, and to draw each stone. This required a 3D scanning with very high density, high accuracy, and coverage without missing areas, in order to support the planning of a facade renovation and the monitoring of the condition of the masonry.
Proposition
To eliminate the blind spots typical of a terrestrial LiDAR scan on facades rich in detail (window sills, cornices, decorative elements), we proposed a hybrid LiDAR and drone photogrammetry approach.
LiDAR scanning
The LiDAR survey provided the geometric basis for the project, establishing the exact scale, shape, and spatial context. It served as a reliable geometric reference, ensuring the scale and accuracy of the project.
Photogrammetry
We then planned pre-programmed drone missions to capture the majority of the building facades uniformly and consistently. Areas impossible to cover autonomously were supplemented by manual flights.
In total, approximately 3,000 images were produced and aligned with the LiDAR point cloud, in order to combine the accuracy of the survey and the level of detail offered by close-up shots.
Deliverables
The final deliverable combines the best of both datasets to produce a single, complete and usable base for design and analysis.
High-density, high-precision, and high-accuracy color point cloud
We delivered a high-density, high-precision, and highly accurate color point cloud. The majority of the points were generated through photogrammetric processing to reduce blind spots, and then areas where the drone could not operate were supplemented by ground-based LiDAR.
Orthophotos of facades at 1 mm per pixel
Orthophotos of the facade at 1 mm per pixel accompany the survey and allow for clear visualization of cracks, defects, joints and details of the stone.
Mesh model with high-resolution texture
A mesh model with a high-resolution texture was also produced to facilitate consultation, coordination, and communication of the project.
This hybrid methodology enables 3D documentation particularly suited to heritage buildings and façade restoration projects in Montreal and Quebec. It provides precise working support for inventory, measurement, drawing preparation, and monitoring the condition of materials.
