Laser Scanning for Churches & Cloisters

Precise documentation for historic, architecturally complex spaces

Churches, chapels, cloisters, and monastic complexes present unique documentation challenges. Tall volumes, vaulted ceilings, layered renovations, delicate finishes, and centuries-old construction require a careful, methodical approach to reality capture.

MYND Workshop provides terrestrial laser scanning, drone-based capture, surface documentation, and Scan-to-BIM services for historic religious and ecclesiastical buildings across the United States. Our work supports renovation planning, preservation, conservation, structural analysis, and long-term archival documentation.

Terrestrial + Drone Data of St Mary’s Church in Stamford, CT

High Resolution Orthographic Image of Facade, St Mary’s Church in Stamford, CT

Experience in sacred and architecturally significant environments

Ecclesiastical buildings often combine monumental scale with fine ornamental detail. Typical conditions include:

• Vaulted ceilings and high clerestories

• Complex roof structures and towers

• Stone tracery, carved ornament, and sculptural elements

• Murals, painted ceilings, and decorative plaster

• Cloister arcades and irregular courtyard geometry

We have scanned a number of churches and cloisters nationwide, working within active congregations, heritage sites, and architecturally significant interiors where discretion and coordination are essential.

Textured Mesh from Photogrammetry + LiDAR, The Met Cloisters, NYC

Photogrammetry + LiDAR Scan of Cloister, Toledo Museum of Art, Toledo, OH

Integrated capture strategies for complex geometry

Churches and cloisters often require a combination of technologies to fully document both structure and surface.

Our services may include:

• Terrestrial LiDAR scanning for full-building geometry

• Drone-based scanning and photogrammetry for towers, roofs, and elevated façades

• High-resolution orthographic imagery for murals and decorative ceilings

• Surface scanning for damaged plaster, stone, or ornamental elements

• Flat pattern development for ceiling and vault analysis

By combining methods, we create accurate, comprehensive datasets suited to both architectural and conservation workflows.

Drone Imagery for 3D Model Development of Church Spire using Photogrammetry

3D CAD Model of Church Spire, Larchmont, NY

Scan-to-BIM and detailed 2D documentation

We regularly develop Revit-based BIM models and 2D drawing sets for churches and cloisters, with level of detail tailored to project needs.

Deliverables may include:

• Existing conditions BIM models

• IFC and DWG exports for interdisciplinary coordination

• Floor plans, sections, and elevations

• Reflected ceiling plans and vault geometry

• Detailed façade documentation

• Drawings adapted to client templates and preservation standards

In projects requiring multiple drawing types, a model-based workflow often proves more efficient than producing isolated 2D CAD drawings alone.

Detailed 3D Revit Model, St Patrick’s Church, Bridgeport, CT

Point Cloud Detail of Window Profiles, Trinity Church Wall St, NYC

Precise CAD Documentation of Window Profiles, Trinity Church Wall St, NYC

Supporting preservation, restoration, and conservation efforts

Historic churches and cloisters frequently require:

• Structural assessments

• Façade restoration

• Conservation of murals and decorative finishes

• Roof and envelope interventions

• Phased renovation planning

Accurate spatial documentation reduces uncertainty and provides a reliable reference for design, engineering, and conservation teams working within historically significant environments.

Ceiling Flatness Scan for Plaster Analysis and Renovation, Brooklyn, NY

A measured, respectful approach

Religious and ecclesiastical sites require thoughtful coordination around access, congregation schedules, and preservation requirements. We work closely with architects, preservation consultants, clergy, and project stakeholders to define a documentation strategy that aligns with both technical and institutional needs.

If you’re planning renovation, restoration, or conservation work within a church or cloister, we’re happy to discuss documentation strategies early in the process.