In the context of the construction industry, the integration between openBIM and GIS is emerging as a revolutionary force in various fields. In this article, we will look at a case study related to the modeling of historical cities, focusing on the digitization of the city of El Jadida, in Morocco.

The model created by ETAFAT is the result of the integration between Esri’s ArcGIS platform and the online application usBIM.geotwin by ACCA software.

These advanced technological tools offer new opportunities for the management, preservation, and enhancement of architectural and urban heritage, combining the accuracy of 3D BIM models with the analytical power of spatial data.

Geospatial digital twin of the historic city of El Jadida

GIS and openBIM Integration

openBIM is a methodology that promotes transparency and collaboration through the use of open and interoperable standards that facilitate workflows in the construction sector. Unlike proprietary BIM platforms, openBIM allows different stakeholders to collaborate without technological barriers, improving efficiency and reducing costs. The use of open formats such as IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) allows data exchange between different software, enabling a holistic view of the project.

GIS is a system that allows for capturing, storing, manipulating, analyzing, managing, and presenting geographic data. When combined with BIM, GIS provides a broad spatial context that enriches BIM models with geographic information. This integration is particularly useful for projects involving vast and complex areas such as historical cities.

To delve deeper, read also Maximizing efficiency in managing and maintaining built assets with the BIM-GIS approach.

To better understand the power generated by the union of these two technologies, I propose a short video related to the case study on the digitization of the ancient city of El Jadida, in Morocco.

Digital federated and georeferenced model of the city of El Jadida

Starting from the point cloud acquired during the survey phase, we then proceeded with the BIM modeling and the creation of the city’s information model. What’s the result of that? A geospatial digital twin that fully reflects the integration of different formats (point clouds, textured meshes, BIM models, IFC models, etc.) perfectly federated together on a single cloud platform. This model, representing an existing and dynamic historical city, is intended to evolve over time to constitute the faithful representation of the evolving city.

El Jadida is a splendid city overlooking the ocean where Moroccan and Portuguese cultures blend into a unique mix, just like the formats representing the digital model featured in this video.

Advantages of modeling historical cities with openBIM and GIS

In the context of the conservation and enhancement of historical cities, as in the case of El Jadida, the integration of advanced technologies such as openBIM and GIS is radically transforming the way we design, manage, and preserve these precious cultural heritages. When combined, these tools offer a detailed and interconnected view of historical buildings and their urban context, facilitating more effective and sustainable interventions. Below are some of the main advantages resulting from the integrated use of openBIM and GIS in modeling historical cities.

Documentation and preservation – detailed 3D modeling obtained through openBIM allows for the creation of faithful representations of historical buildings, documenting their architectural features accurately for detailed analysis, studies, and representations. When these models are integrated with GIS data, it is possible to map the precise location of each building within the urban fabric, facilitating the planning and management of conservation projects.
Analysis and planning – the integration of BIM and GIS enables advanced spatial analysis, such as shadow studies, visual impact assessment, analysis of escape routes in case of emergencies, etc. These analyses are crucial for urban planning and risk management in historical cities, where preserving the aesthetic and structural integrity of existing buildings is essential.
Engagement of stakeholders – the use of openBIM facilitates collaboration among architects, engineers, urban planners, art historians, and local authorities. Collaborative platforms based on openBIM allow all stakeholders to access and contribute to digital models, improving transparency and communication. Furthermore, integration with GIS makes data accessible to citizens as well, promoting more active participation in the preservation of cultural heritage.
Operational efficiency – integrated BIM-GIS data can be used to improve the operational management of historical cities. For example, it is possible to optimize the maintenance of historical buildings through the use of IoT (Internet of Things) sensors that monitor structural and environmental conditions in real-time. This proactive approach reduces maintenance costs and extends the lifespan of historical buildings.
Tourism and cultural enhancement – modeling historical cities with openBIM and GIS can also play a fundamental role in promoting cultural tourism. By creating detailed and interactive digital replicas, virtual tours can be offered to attract visitors from around the world, even remotely. These models can be used to develop augmented and virtual reality applications, enhancing visitors’ experience and offering an immersive way to explore historical heritage. This digital enhancement can lead to increased tourism revenue and greater awareness of the need to preserve cultural heritage.
Education and research – finally, the integration of openBIM and GIS provides a valuable tool for education and research. Universities and research institutes can use these digital models to study and teach historical architecture, urban planning, and heritage conservation. Students can explore the details of historical structures and better understand the construction techniques used in past centuries. At the same time, researchers can analyze the data to develop new restoration and conservation methodologies, contributing to the advancement of the sector.

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