Mobile augmented reality platform: an alternative visualization technique for architectural heritage restoration

Abstract Architectural heritage restoration is a multidisciplinary process dedicated to preserving the physical authenticity of heritage architecture. The preservation of physical buildings, however, requires extensive documentation, extended timelines, and substantial financial resources. These challenges frequently impede preservation efforts, leading to the abandonment and deterioration of high-value heritage buildings and, consequently, the loss of both tangible and intangible cultural heritage knowledge. Recent advancements in information and communication technology (ICT), mobile computing, and visualisation technologies have introduced alternative methods that reduce the workload, time, and costs associated with architectural restoration by enabling virtual restoration. Mobile Augmented Reality (MAR) offers an innovative approach to virtually preserving and documenting heritage architecture through Augmented Reality (AR) representations. This article examines Mobile Augmented Reality Restoration (MARR), demonstrates its practical applications, and highlights the potential of the Mobile Augmented Reality Platform (MARP) to preserve knowledge of heritage architecture. MARP enables real-time overlays of digital building reconstructions onto physical sites, using simple tools such as mobile phones and tablets. Methodologically, the discourse includes discussion on two (2) case studies. The first case study is ARCHEOGUIDE for interactive tourism innovation, in which a literature review examines the history and viability of immersive environments for the virtual restoration of architecture. For the second case study, the researchers conducted an action research project to explore the application of MARP, a transformative tool for visualizing architectural heritage restoration. The discourse includes MARP’s design, its development, the challenges of geolocation accuracy and cognitive overload, and its benefits in terms of cost-benefit and audience engagement. By investigating case studies of “Archeoguide” and Mobile Augmented Reality Restoration (MARR), the research demonstrated the practical applications and highlighted MARP’s potential for preserving knowledge of heritage architecture. This investigation establishes a foundation for future research focused on optimising MARP’s tracking precision and enabling AI-driven personalisation.