Progressive protection and digital renewal of Tujia traditional dwellings: a case study of Caoguitang

Cao Guitang in Qianjiang District is a unique architectural heritage shaped by both Tusi and Tujia ethnicities in the Southeastern Chongqing region. Given the lack of protection funds and the absence of a significant drive for preservation in ethnic minority areas, this study adopts Cao Guitang as an intrinsic single-case, integrating terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) and close-range photogrammetry to develop a digital archive and pilot a three-step, progressive conservation-and-renewal strategy: (1) The first phase involves compiling a digital architectural archive to enable efficient and intuitive visualization of the building’s information. (2) The second phase focused on deploying a digital exhibition and promotion platform to achieve low-cost, non-invasive public outreach and preservation. (3) The third phase emphasizes curating a cultural tourism experience based on Tusi official residences and Tujia ethnic ancestral residence to support sustainable, small-scale interventions in heritage development and transmission.