Bluesky 3D Models Support Planning of Coventry’s Landmark Cultural Hub

Accurate 3D Context for a Transformational Urban Project

Advanced 3D building models produced by aerial mapping firm Bluesky International are playing a central role in the planning and visualization of a major redevelopment project in Coventry, United Kingdom. The data forms the spatial foundation for immersive digital walkthroughs and virtual-reality presentations that help planners, architects, and stakeholders evaluate the impact of the proposed City Centre Cultural Gateway (CCCG).

The project, designed by the architectural practice Buttress, will convert the former IKEA building into a large-scale multi-functional cultural and collections facility expected to become one of the largest developments of its kind globally. By integrating Bluesky’s geospatial models into its Building Information Modelling (BIM) processes, the design team can examine how the structure interacts with surrounding neighbourhoods and aligns with Coventry’s historic urban landscape.

Supporting Design Decisions and Stakeholder Engagement

Highly detailed and geographically precise building representations provide the design team with a reliable visual reference of the surrounding environment. This enables planners to assess accessibility, skyline visibility, and neighbourhood impacts from any vantage point around the site. The same models are also used to communicate proposals clearly to planning authorities, clients, and the wider public, ensuring that decision-makers can visualize the development within its real-world setting.

Because the new structure will occupy a prominent location in Coventry’s cityscape, the ability to present the building’s façade, scale, and orientation in realistic context is essential for both approval processes and public engagement.

From Aerial Capture to BIM and VR Workflows

Bluesky’s 3D models are generated using the latest aerial photography and photogrammetric processing techniques, producing detailed representations of terrain, buildings, and infrastructure. Once delivered, the datasets are incorporated into Buttress’s Revit-based BIM environment alongside architectural plans and design strategies. After additional processing to enhance realism, the models are exported into visualization platforms used for interactive presentations, mobile-device viewing, QR-code access, and immersive VR experiences.

The data products are available in multiple formats—including wireframe and block models—ensuring compatibility with CAD and GIS systems. Each dataset is delivered with a digital terrain model (DTM), and can be produced at different levels of detail to meet project requirements. Additional contextual features such as transportation networks or environmental elements can also be included.

A Flexible Cultural Destination for Coventry

The City Centre Cultural Gateway is a collaborative initiative involving Coventry City Council, CV Life, Arts Council England, the British Council, and Coventry University. Designed with adaptability in mind, the facility will function both as a nationally significant collections centre and as a dynamic cultural hub. Planned amenities include galleries, teaching spaces, research facilities, artists’ studios, a library, performance and dance spaces, retail outlets, and public meeting areas, many of which will be accessible for community use or hire.

The project is expected to deliver lasting economic, social, and cultural benefits while extending the legacy of Coventry’s designation as UK City of Culture.

Bluesky International’s Geospatial Expertise

Bluesky International is a leading provider of aerial survey data and geographic information across Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland, maintaining extensive national datasets of aerial imagery and elevation information. In addition to nationwide mapping coverage, the company performs specialized surveys—including LiDAR capture—for a wide range of government and commercial clients.

Its fleet of aircraft is equipped with advanced sensors capable of simultaneously collecting vertical and oblique imagery as well as LiDAR data, enabling the creation of highly detailed geospatial products. These capabilities allow Bluesky to deliver comprehensive mapping solutions for sectors such as construction, telecommunications, utilities, finance, environmental management, and infrastructure planning.

Through continued investment in new technologies and data products, including innovations like the National Tree Map, the company supports long-term partnerships with public authorities and major private organizations worldwide, helping drive more accurate planning, visualization, and spatial analysis across complex development projects.