Najdi architecture in HBIM for sustainable conservation

Abstract The combination of cultural heritage elements with modern architectural practices leads to sustainable urban development while protecting social and cultural identities. The Najdi region in Saudi Arabia showcases its distinctive architectural elements including doorways Tarma Alfuraj and Shuraf which provide essential knowledge about sustainable design and cultural heritage protection. This research investigates the possibility of adding Traditional Najdi Architectural Elements to Heritage Building Information Modelling (HBIM) library which will create a standardized system for preserving these elements and their application in modern urban development projects. The Salmani Architectural Style receives special attention because it unites traditional Najdi design elements with contemporary architectural principles which prioritize sustainability alongside cultural preservation. This research uses laser scanning and photogrammetry and augmented reality tools to develop a dynamic system which documents and reinterprets these elements while maintaining their authentic value for the changing urban landscape of Saudi Arabia. This paper presents an extensive approach to digitize and catalog Najdi elements while resolving difficulties of implementing their complex designs and cultural elements into HBIM frameworks. The HBIM library functions as both a heritage conservation repository and an architectural and urban planning resource.