From craft to code: Integrating digital fabrication with traditional conservation techniques

Abstract

This study investigates the integration of traditional craftsmanship with modern digital fabrication techniques in restoring a Baroque balustrade at the Church of Tuczno, Poland. The research evaluates how these complementary approaches can enhance conservation while maintaining heritage structures' aesthetic and historical integrity. The restoration process involved two primary methodologies: a traditional conservation method emphasising manual artistry and a contemporary digital method utilising TSRP (terrestrial short-range photogrammetry) and CNC (computer numerical control) milling. Combining these techniques allowed for the accurate replication of missing decorative elements, enhancing the balustrade's aesthetic and structural integrity while preserving its historical significance. This project illustrates the potential of digital tools to complement traditional conservation practices, leading to a more efficient and effective restoration process. The findings contribute to the broader discourse on sustainable heritage preservation, highlighting the importance of innovative techniques in safeguarding cultural assets for future generations.