Society. Spaces. Screens
Abstract
A unique piece of architecture is located within Hong Kong’s Shek Kip Mei Park: a fountain with an artificial waterfall. Obviously, its æsthetic links to a past in which a style of futuristic architecture was anticipated, when completed in 1980. Pastel pink and light blue tiles enhance the construction, expanding over three storeys. Residents of the nearby estates feel well connected to this environment as it provides shelter for rain and sun during their physical exercise and some have fond memories as they spend their art lessons drawing the waterfall on paper. Now, as time has passed, the waterworks are not active any longer, the tiles fall apart and new plans are made for this area. Like the destiny of most inconspicuous urban furniture, they might only be remembered on some family photographs after they are revamped or removed. Therefore, we are currently exploring methods to create a digital twin of the environment. The challenge lies in capturing the expansive dimensions accurately. This paper outlines our approach—from data acquisition and 3D reconstruction to crafting a Virtual Reality experience. Considerations such as lidar scanning and Gaussian Splatting are explored, presenting a holistic strategy to conserve the fountain’s essence. Through these endeavours, we aim to safeguard the legacy of this architectural gem, ensuring its timeless presence in the digital realm.
Elke Reinhuber is a media-artist, educator and researcher at SCM, CityUHK. Her interest in immersive representations of architectural cultural heritage via digital media is the starting point for her artworks which add a narrative to often overlooked but relevant sites. Several of her projects are closely connected to the rapid change of Asian metropolises as in her stereoscopic video Venomenon and her research on capturing the experience of being inside the former Yunnan Garden in Singapore. Her award-winning works were presented internationally, at conferences, exhibitions and festivals.
Benjamin Seide is an educator and researcher at the School of Art, Design and Media (ADM) at NTU Singapore. Leveraging his considerable experience and specialized expertise in computer animation and visual effects, he delves into the vast potential of immersive media. His focus extends particularly to exploring innovative approaches in representing culture and heritage.
His work as a visual effects specialist contributed to award-winning films of renowned directors, he received Honours from the Academy of Television, Arts & Sciences (EMMY).