From comparison to integration: A workflow evaluation of 3D Gaussian splatting and LiDAR point cloud for modern architectural heritage

This paper investigates the role of 3D Gaussian Splatting (3DGS) within point cloud–dominated workflows for modern architectural heritage digitization. While 3DGS enables real-time, photorealistic visualization, its integration into LiDAR-based documentation pipelines remains underexplored. Using Bouwpub, a modern heritage building in the Netherlands, as a case study, the paper compares 3DGS and LiDAR across data acquisition and preservation, visualization, semantic segmentation, and dissemination. Results show that 3DGS offers superior visual expressiveness and user responsiveness, whereas LiDAR provides greater structural accuracy and segmentation reliability. Based on these findings, two integration strategies are proposed: a Blender-based multi-angle rendering workflow and a Level of Detail 3DGS (LOD3DGS) pipeline. Moving from isolated assessment to applied integration, the study positions 3DGS as a complementary visualization and dissemination module rather than a replacement. This hybrid approach supports immersive, scalable, and semantically enriched digital heritage systems, offering new directions for enhancing both expert documentation and public engagement. • 3DGS is evaluated for real-world use in architectural heritage digitization. • Comparative analysis of 3DGS and LiDAR in visualization, segmentation, and VR. • Two workflows proposed integrating 3DGS into LiDAR point cloud pipelines. • 3DGS offers real-time interaction; LiDAR provides accurate spatial geometry. • The study defines 3DGS's role in point cloud–dominated heritage workflows.