Digital Preventive Conservation Methodology for Hong Kong Temples: A Case Study of Yuen Kwan Tai Temple

<p>This research addresses critical conservation challenges facing Hong Kong's temples through the development of a digital preventive conservation methodology, using Yuen Kwan Tai Temple as a case study. Hong Kong temples, particularly those in coastal areas, face significant threats from environmental factors and limited resources for systematic preservation. The study establishes a practical framework integrating multiple digital technologies—LiDAR scanning, photogrammetry, and Heritage Building Information Modeling (HBIM)—to create a mobile application designed for temple managers without architectural or conservation backgrounds, enabling them to intuitively understand building conditions and effectively communicate with conservation professionals. </p><p></p><p>The methodology's core focuses on achieving effective conservation at low cost, avoiding the dependence on expensive equipment and specialized software typical of traditional digital preservation approaches. The research includes a standardized condition assessment system with damage classification criteria specifically developed for Hong Kong temples, multi-source data acquisition and integration techniques, and a simplified monitoring system for non-specialist users. Implementation at Yuen Kwan Tai Temple demonstrated the framework's effectiveness in identifying structural risks, visualizing preservation conditions, and supporting conservation decision-making through color-coded risk mapping and interactive 3D models. </p><p></p><p>User testing and professional assessment confirm that this application effectively assists temple managers in monitoring conservation status, even with limited technical resources and expertise. Through the combination of practical monitoring parameters and intuitive interface design, this low-cost methodology makes preventive conservation accessible to numerous community temples in Hong Kong.</p><p></p><p>While limitations existed in complete documentation of decorative elements and actual sensor deployment, the framework provides a sustainable foundation for preventive conservation practices that can be expanded to other temples facing similar challenges, supporting the long-term preservation of these significant cultural heritage resources.</p>