Reconstructive models and AR applications to archive drawings. Aldo Morbelli’s forgotten architectures

Architecture archives constitute an invaluable source of knowledge and an essential pillar for scientific research dedicated to understanding architecture in all its nuances. This resource interests a wide spectrum of disciplines, including the history of architecture, conservation, design theory, and representation. In recent years, we have witnessed a growing recognition of the importance of preserving archives related to Modernism: these archives often harbor a rich treasure of material that holds invaluable importance for the academic world and an international community of passionate scholars. A particularly interesting area of research is the digitization and interpretation of architectural projects that, despite being conceived by illustrious masters of architecture, were never realized. These projects represent valuable testimonies of uncompleted creative paths and offer a new perspective on architectural history, worthy of examination and understanding. The introduction of augmented reality (AR) technologies in the field of historic architecture has opened new possibilities for the documentation and visualization of buildings that no longer exist. AR serves as an innovative tool for preserving historical memory, enriching the experience of studying and enjoying architectural heritage. The process begins with meticulous digitization of historical documents and archive drawings, requiring in-depth analysis to ensure the accuracy of the representation. These are then transformed into digital formats, facilitating integration into 3D modeling environments. Historical photographs, testimonies of past eras, represent another valuable resource, as they capture visual details and provide precious information on the original state of buildings. This contribution draws on materials preserved at the “Roberto Gabetti” Central Library of Architecture archive at the Polytechnic of Turin: in particular, the archive holds works by Carlo Mollino (1905-1973), subject to previous H-BIM reconstructive modeling studies, and by Aldo Morbelli (1903-1963). On this occasion, the research group resumed the results of a previous BIM modeling experience, aimed at the digital reconstruction of Aldo Morbelli’s Treves-Sacerdote farmhouse, built in Turin in 1947 and demolished in 1964, and is developing a communication project using AR technologies. The threedimensional model can be superimposed on the surrounding environment through the use of mobile devices or AR viewers, employing the tools of the Unity software. The reconstructive model can be considered a prototype for the development of future methodologies in the field of interactive and immersive reality experiences. These will allow scholars, students, and a wider audience to explore the architectural past in a detailed and engaging way. The combined approach of archive documentation, 3D modeling, and AR opens new perspectives for the conservation of architectural heritage and the understanding of architectures that no longer exist physically.