H-BIM and Modern architecture preservation. The case study of Gio Ponti’s Fondazione Garzanti in Forlì.

The conservation of cultural heritage has long focused mainly on traditional monuments, overlooking modern architecture whose significance was not fully recognized until recent decades. Yet, 20th-century modern architecture, with its innovative use of materials like reinforced concrete, steel, and glass, profoundly reshaped cities and posed new challenges for restoration. As pioneering works by architects such as Le Corbusier and Gio Ponti began to age, the need to protect these buildings became increasingly urgent to prevent irreversible loss of cultural value. This thesis explores effective strategies for the conservation of modern architecture, focusing on the Garzanti Foundation and the Hotel della Città e della Ville in Forlì as case studies. The research develops a BIM-based model that not only provides a precise geometric reproduction but also systematizes historical and technical information crucial for informed restoration. By integrating historical phases, construction details, material specifications, and structural data, the model supports decision-making and fosters targeted interventions that respect the building’s integrity. A key objective is to create a collaborative digital platform accessible to professionals, visitors, and users alike, thus promoting broader awareness and appreciation of these architectural assets. The methodology combines archival research, historical-biographical analysis of Gio Ponti’s design principles, and on-site surveys to document the current state. The result is an enriched digital twin incorporating the dimension of time to trace modifications and enabling future additions such as maintenance and cost management data. Ultimately, this approach demonstrates how digital tools can enhance the preservation of modern heritage, ensuring its continued use and adaptation while safeguarding its historical significance for future generations.