The restoration of France’s iconic Notre-Dame cathedral, one of the most beloved landmarks in the world, was given a boost with the help of 3D modelling. In April of 2019, a devastating fire destroyed the cathedral’s main timber spire and roof, as well as its stained glass windows and wooden interior. However, the Notre-Dame restoration will soon be finished, and a big part of that is thanks to a cutting-edge 3D building information model (BIM) processed by the American software company Autodesk.
Using scans, photogrammetry and drone footage, Autodesk was able to construct a complete view of the 850-year-old structure to guide the reconstruction effort. This project shows how 3D modelling technologies are being used to preserve and restore culturally significant buildings around the world. The Notre-Dame Cathedral is expected to reopen to the public in late 2024.
Autodesk is a leading software company that provides computer-aided design (CAD) and digital prototyping tools to help architects, engineers, and other professionals in the building industry create realistic visualizations of their work. Founded in 1982, Autodesk has since become an important player in the world of 3D modelling and has been responsible for several groundbreaking projects, including the restoration of Notre-Dame in Paris.
The personal behind this amazing project is Nicolas Mangon, the vice president of Autodesk AEC Solutions. With extensive experience in creative uses of technology, and a passion for preserving historic sites, he was the perfect candidate to lead this incredible endeavor. Through his leadership, Autodesk was able to turn the fragmented data of Notre-Dame into a detailed 3D model which will soon have the world in awe again.
