The Analysis of the Maintained/Disowned Relationship among Firmitas, Utilitas, and Venustas to Preserve the Cultural Heritage: An H-BIM Approach for the Management of Historic Buildings

Understanding the transformations of a historic building is complex but necessary operation to plan future, more aware maintenance works that preserve architectural quality. This study proposed analyze changes undergone by an edifice over time virtue Vitruvian triad, namely criteria formalised Vitruvius judge architecture: firmitas (construction system), utilitas (utility), and venustas (aesthetics). These depend on designer’s mindset also influence historical, cultural, or local factors. The theme required prior reflection mutations triad time. Based upon these relationships, analysis heritage Messina was started because it emblematic due historical events: buildings constructed after earthquake 1908, subject war damage repairs, then maintenance. Their firmitas, utilitas, changed for social, normative reasons. In this regard, former Fascist House has significant features: repeated in intended use produced planimetric variations, technical-constructive modifications sometimes connected formal choices, abolition, albeit partial, fascist symbols. current appeal experiment with digital technologies led examination opportunities BIM methodology, finding model historicisation way document record variations existing virtual environment. research topic proposes operative approach incisive digitalisation buildings, trying make contribution Target 4 Goal 11 2030 Agenda Sustainable Development: strengthen efforts protect safeguard cultural heritage.