How We're Using Laser Scanning to Modernize Architecture Projects?

Hi everyone,

I wanted to start a conversation around the real-world applications of architectural laser scanning in today’s AEC industry—especially for those working with Rhino, Grasshopper, or Revit integrations.

Over the past few years, my team and I have been using 3D laser scanning (LiDAR + photogrammetry) to capture as-built conditions for architectural and renovation projects. The results have been game-changing* in terms of precision, collaboration, and speed.

:white_check_mark: Realistic Use Cases We’ve Handled:

:small_orange_diamond: Historic Building Renovation in Washington, D.C.
We scanned a 100-year-old brownstone to deliver a detailed Revit model. Traditional blueprints were outdated and missing critical structural changes—our scan caught everything, including uneven walls, beam shifts, and damaged facades.

:small_orange_diamond: High-End Residential Home in Miami, FL
A client needed a full home remodel, but had no drawings at all. Using laser scanning, we provided point cloud data, floor plans, elevations, and a Revit-ready 3D model in under a week. This helped the architect save ~30% in design time.

:small_orange_diamond: Commercial Interior Fit-Out in NYC
A retail space was going through frequent layout updates. Using scans, we created accurate ceiling plans and mechanical zones which helped coordinate HVAC retrofits without site surprises.


:construction: Why More Architects & BIM Managers Are Asking for Scans First:

  • Avoid site re-visits due to missing data
  • Get Revit, Rhino, or CAD-ready models directly from point cloud
  • Reduce coordination errors and RFIs during construction
  • Build confidently from day one

Are you currently using point cloud data or laser scans for architectural projects?
How do you prefer to integrate scan data into your Rhino workflows?
Any tips on using Grasshopper to automate as-built modeling?

I’d love to hear your experiences and answer questions if you’re considering scans for your next renovation or build.

Let’s share insights and maybe even workflows!

For me e57 extension works fine in Rhino. It’s good practice to have benchmarks in field, regular it’s 60 inches aff. In the interiors. So it’s good to have 0 level set along z axis then lock cloud layer. So use clipping plane and draw plan along points. And now u can create model by using cloud as reference. Super easy. You can also use visualarq for fast survey and then work on it further. I am working with scans everyday.