Research
Dr Hord Arsalan’s research focuses on the intersection of building modelling, information management, and digital technologies within the built environment. Her current work investigates the use of BIM, digital twins, and AI for the conservation and reconstruction of cultural heritage assets. Central to her research is the development of the “echo-based” Heritage Digital Twin—a framework that integrates BIM with ontologies and community-sourced narratives to capture both tangible and intangible heritage.
Her research interests include:
Heritage BIM (HBIM) and digital workflows for heritage projects
AI-assisted reconstruction of lost or damaged heritage
ISO 19650-aligned information management and CDE workflows
Scan-to-semantic HBIM and interoperability
Digital Twins and data-driven decision-making across project phases
She has published and presented on topics including digital twins, Heritage BIM, and indoor environmental quality, and reviews for the ASCE Journal of Architectural Engineering. Her earlier collaboration with the Black Country Living Museum continues to influence her research on heritage applications of BIM.