Holosphere’s primary role in the ALCHEMAI project is as a software developer and visualiser, using their expertise to build the user interface for a retrofit planning tool that will improve understanding of non-domestic buildings – a key output of the ALCHEMAI project. Holosphere also conducted data capture through drones and thermal imaging to create 3D models.  

Ed Lawes, Holosphere, joined us to share insights on the advantages of drone surveying for non-domestic retrofit, as well as the exciting use cases of their software for local authorities and asset owners. 

Drone surveys for retrofit 

An initial step in the ALCHEMAI project was conducting drone surveys of each project pilot site, in order to create quick 3D models and records of each building. Partner Holosphere captured 600-1000 images using drones at each site. Using photogrammetry, they created detailed 3D models of the buildings from the drone imagery, while also using thermal imaging to identify key heat loss areas. 

3D models in a single day’s work  

Ed explained that for many projects in the realm of non-domestic retrofit, where millimetre accuracy is not necessary, drones are advantageous due to offering inexpensive, quick and efficient model-making. He says, “with drones, we can capture building data in half a day and produce 3D models in another half, making retrofitting planning quicker and more cost-effective.” Ed adds that drone use is made more accessible through the use of lightweight drones (under 250g), which allows more flexible flying while still providing powerful imagery. 

Creating a retrofit planning tool 

Following the surveys, Holosphere’s main focus is on visualisation, to create a software and tool that can help local authorities, building managers, and decision-makers understand their buildings more deeply.  

Holosphere has built an interactive user interface using Unreal Engine that will work as a visual digital twin. To function as an accurate digital twin, Holosphere collaborated closely with ALCHEMAI project partner Elemental Power, who are processing the data and the mathematics behind the digital twins.  

Ed notes that the visualisation and user interface is vital: “A clear visual tool that shows before-and-after scenarios is powerful in securing buy-in from decision-makers and stakeholders.” 

The tool visualises retrofitting scenarios, helping decision-makers, local authorities, and contractors collaborate effectively. It simulates real-world conditions, such as solar shading, to inform planning decisions and allows users to visualise retrofitting scenarios, like solar panel placement, and their impact.  

Benefits 

Ed notes there’s little information known about buildings. But the more knowledge you have about your building, the better outcomes you will have, and that’s what the software is aiming to do with visualisation.  

For retrofit, Ed says “things often go wrong between the planning stage and the execution stage, so having a really good knowledge of your building is vital”. This approach offers enhanced planning and decision-making. Ed says it also supports securing funding for net-zero retrofits by clearly demonstrating an understanding of their built assets.  

Long-term implications 

Holosphere has developed an efficient data pipeline for quick, cost-effective model creation. 

Furthermore, their software aims to make retrofitting accessible and scalable across the industry, to provide local authorities and organisations with the resources to optimise building performance while reducing costs. 

They also see future uses of the technology beyond retrofit: “At this current stage, it's a retrofitting planning tool, but it could be converted into a real time tool for managing energy in a building. You've got the 3D model and you've got the user interface.”