Projects 
Notre-Dame de Dijon
3D modeling of Notre-Dame de Dijon
The survey of this 13th-century Gothic gem proved to be a fascinating experience as well as a logistical challenge, given the constant flow of tourists visiting the site.
During the survey, the discovery of its many discreet sculptures surrounding the window openings, its hidden passages, and the impressive timber frame of the bell tower were among the experiences that make our work so rewarding.
2023
Client
Dijon Métropole
Architect
Archipat — Martin Bacot, Chief Architect of Historical Monuments
As part of the restoration project for the Church of Notre-Dame in Dijon, the City entrusted the architecture practice Archipat, led by Martin Bacot, Chief Architect for Historic Monuments (ACMH), with a diagnostic study. To provide an accurate reference for the restoration study, Archipat called on Geokali to carry out a complete 3D survey and produce all drawings — sections, plans and elevations — required for documentation.
To meet time and budget constraints, the interior was modelled using laser scanning only, while the exterior was surveyed through a hybrid laser–photogrammetric approach.
This approach enabled the complete survey to be carried out in just two weeks by a four-person team.
The weather was often unpredictable, so every possible window was seized to fly the drone — one of the daily realities of our work in the field.
Performing quality control directly in the field helped accelerate processing, allowing the 3D model to be delivered less than a month after data acquisition was completed.
For the production of drawings, Geokali worked with a team of independent draughtsmen coordinated by the excellent Jean-Marc Anneron. With each collaboration, and thanks to close exchanges based on the online 3D model, the Geokali team refines the presentation of orthophoto extractions to make the draughtsmen’s work smoother — a process they fully appreciate.
Western façade of Notre-Dame de Dijon — from orthophoto to architectural drawing
Elevation of the western façade — orthophoto and graphic interpretation
3D model cross-section — survey of the roof structures, nave and aisles
Working conditions at Notre-Dame de Dijon were particularly challenging: a dense urban environment, constant visitor flow, complex interior layouts and unpredictable autumn weather. A team of four to five person completed the on-site work in just two weeks. As for every complex site, the workflow included meticulous on-site quality control. Any additional data needed was collected immediately, ensuring that the dataset’s completeness could be validated before leaving the site.
General view of the 3D model of Notre-Dame de Dijon
Projects