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XGRIDS ecosystem: Transforming AEC retrofit and regeneration
How the XGRIDS ecosystem benefits the AEC industry with 3D laser scanning, BIM integration, and intelligent spatial data for sustainable construction.
Find out how the XGRIDS ecosystem can bolster AEC retrofit and regeneration;
Data shows that the retrofit and regeneration market is on a remarkable trajectory;
Precise 3D data is required throughout the AEC lifecycle, but traditional methods come with issues, including accuracy vs efficiency challenges and data fragmentation;
XGRIDS hardware and software solutions combat these problems to streamline every phase of a project lifecycle - from high-density scanning to AI-driven modelling;
heliguy™ is an XGRIDS partner. Our in-house survey division can help you integrate XGRIDS solutions into your workflows, through consultancy, demonstrations, supply, support, and data processing.
Across the globe, the construction and architecture sectors are undergoing a transformation.
As urban areas expand and ageing infrastructure requires an update, retrofit, renovation, and regeneration have become cornerstones of sustainable development.
Yet, these complex projects rely on one critical factor — accurate, efficient, and intelligent 3D data.
Enter XGRIDS, a pioneer in spatial computing and intelligent 3D reconstruction, offering cutting-edge hardware (3D laser scanners) and software designed to power the next generation of AEC workflows.
XGRIDS enables the creation of true-colour point clouds and Gaussian Splats (3DGS) for photo-realistic digital replicas - combining precision and accuracy with high visual fidelity.
XGRIDS is also compatible with BIM platforms for intuitive and detail-rich modelling experiences - providing authentic on-site references that eliminate guesswork and reduce errors.
This blog highlights how the XGRIDS ecosystem streamlines and improves the lifecycle of AEC retrofit and regeneration projects.
heliguy™ is an XGRIDS partner and our in-house survey division can help you integrate XGRIDS solutions into your workflows, offering consultancy, demonstrations, supply, support, and data processing. Contact us for more information.
Global retrofit market growth: Data-driven transformation
The retrofit market is on a remarkable trajectory, driven by government incentives, technological innovation, and rising energy costs — all driving property owners to modernise for efficiency and sustainability.
Data suggests that countries implementing strict energy efficiency policies have witnessed an annual 10-15% increase in retrofit projects.
Stats include:
Global energy retrofit systems market: Will nearly double from $205.74 billion (£154.28 billion) in 2024 to $387.23 billion (£290.37 billion) by 2034, growing at a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of 7.6% - according to Cervicorn Consulting.
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Retrofit - by sector: Commercial buildings account for the largest end-user segment with 56.12% share in 2024. This is largely due to their high energy consumption. Retrofit offers energy savings, operational cost reductions, and increased property value - according to Cervicorn Consulting.
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Global home renovation sector: This sector was valued at $1,994.02 billion (£1,495.25 billion) in 2024, and is projected to grow from $2,049.25 billion (£1,536.66 billion) in 2025 to $2,659.60 billion (£1,994.35 billion) by 2032, with a CAGR of 3.79% - according to Fortune Business Insights.
Global remodelling market (interior, exterior, and structural remodelling): Estimated at $3.5 trillion (£2.62 trillion) in 2024, and is expected to reach $5.2 trillion (£3.90 trillion) by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 3.8% from 2025 to 2034. Beyond home renovation, commercial, institutional, and industrial renovation projects represent significant segments of the broader renovation industry - according to Global Market Insights.
Interior segment (of global remodelling market): Worth more than $1.7 trillion (£1.27 trillion) in 2024, and is expected to reach $2.5 trillion (£1.87 trillion) by 2023 - according to Global Market Insights.
Retrofit, renovation, and regeneration: Definitions
Before we continue, let's explore what we mean by retrofit, renovation, and regeneration.
Retrofit | Renovation | Regeneration | |
|---|---|---|---|
Description | Upgrades what's under the surface. | Refreshes what's visible to the eye. | Reimagines the entire environment. |
Scope | Technical improvements. | Aesthetic and spatial enhancements.. | Area-wide transformation. |
Focus | Functionality. | Appearance and usability. | Vitality. |
Scale | Unit - building. | Unit - building. | A building complex to an area. |
Why precise 3D data is required across retrofit, renovation, and regeneration
Precise 3D data is required throughout the lifecycle of retrofit, renovation, and regeneration projects.
The table below highlights the type of 3D data required at different AEC stages - and later, we'll explain how XGRIDS solutions can help.
Stage 1 Status-quo assessment and demand definition | Stage 2 Planning, validation, and conceptual design | Stage 3 Detailed design and pre-construction | Stage 4 Construction execution and monitoring | Stage 5 Handover, operations, and digital documents |
|---|---|---|---|---|
• Site data: Define research and design boundaries. • Data of facade and surroundings: Analyse urban interface integration. • Structure data: Examine integrity and deformations to assess potentials and issues. • Historical records: Compare with current conditions to detect changes and flag risks. | • Internal spatial data: Use story heights and structural grids to redesign layouts. • External spatial data: Leverage obstacles, slope, and orientation to inform openings, daylighting, and ventilation design. • Triple validation: Cross-check site data, local codes, and conceptual schemes to validate feasibility. | • Data of retained items: Refine designs and perform clash detection on retained structures, equipment, and MEP systems. • Concealed area data: Use ceiling voids and plant rooms for electromechanical wiring and system integration. • Site data: To simulate construction sequencing, material delivery routes, and site layout. | • Construction site data: Verify progress and quality. • Structure data: Monitor structural settlement and deformation for deviation analysis. | • As-built models: Digital records for project handover. • MEP facility data: To log into digital FM systems. • Pre/post reconstruction data: Asset tracking and future upgrades. • Potentials: Enable periodic maintenance, inspections, and service requests. |
Common retrofit challenges: 3D data gaps and workflow inefficiences
Whether retrofitting a commercial tower or reimagining an urban block, AEC professionals face consistent hurdles:
Accuracy vs efficiency challenges.
Limited resources and tight pre-contract timelines constrain data capture.
Manual surveys are slow, labour-intensive, and error-prone.
Hidden components are often inaccessible, leading to incomplete assessments.
Data fragmentation across formats causes inefficiencies and coordination issues.
Data processing can be labour-intensive.
Without reliable spatial data, projects suffer from design revisions, cost overruns, and even safety risks.
The XGRIDS toolset: Precision 3D reconstruction for retrofit and renovation
To overcome these challenges, XGRIDS delivers a comprehensive toolset integrating hardware, software, plugins, and SDKs.
From high-density scanning to AI-driven modelling, it streamlines every phase of the project lifecycle.
Intelligent 3D laser scanners for AEC
At the heart of the XGRIDS ecosystem is its handheld scanners: The LixelKity K1 and Lixel L2 Pro. Both are capable of generating accurate true-colour point clouds, and Gaussian Splat outputs.
XGRIDS has also launched the PortalCam, but its primary goal is not the same level of geometric precision required for professional survey work.
Therefore, the K1 and L2 Pro are the stand-out choices for AEC.
K1: A lightweight, rapid-deployment device optimised for interior renovation and routine site capture.
L2 Pro: A high-performance, long-range scanner ideal for facades, public spaces, and complex exteriors. It can also be drone-mounted.
The table below provides an at-a-glance specification comparison between the K1 and L2 Pro. For a deeper dive - including comparison datasets - read our XGRIDS K1 vs L2 Pro blog.
XGRIDS K1 | XGRIDS L2 Pro | |
|---|---|---|
Summary | Lightweight and flexible | High-performance and versatile |
Key features | Compact design Optimised for indoor spaces Rapid deployment Cost-effective | Long-range measurement High-density scanning Multi-platform compatible Ideal for large-area scanning |
Weight (with battery) | 0.76kg | 1.7kg |
Dimensions | 87mm x 65mm x 267mm | 180mm x 130mm x 400mm |
Storage | 256G microSD | 1T SSD |
Operating time | 1.5 hours | 1.5 hours |
Operating temperature | -20°C to 50°C | -20°C to 50°C |
IP rating | IP54 | IP54 |
Camera | Resolution: 2 x 48MP Panoramic resolution: Max 56MP Field of view (FOV): 360° x 360° | Resolution: 2 x 48MP Panoramic resolution: Max 56MP Field of view (FOV): 190° x 190° |
LiDAR | Range: 0,1-40m @ 10%, 70m@80% Laser: Class 1/905nm Field of view (FOV): 360° Point frequency: 200,000 pts/s | Range: 0.5m-120m or 0.5m-300m Laser: Class 1/905nm Field of view (FOV): 360° x 270° Point frequency: 320,000 pts/s or 640,000 pts/s |
RTK | Accuracy - Horizontal: 0.8cm + 1 ppm Accuracy - Elevation: 1.5cm + 1 ppm Standard RTK: Support Survey RTK: No support | Accuracy - Horizontal: 0.8cm + 1 ppm Accuracy - Elevation: 1.5cm + 1 ppm Standard RTK: Support Survey RTK: Support |
Data | Absolute accuracy: 3cm Relative accuracy: 1.2cm Repeatability: 2cm Thickness: 1cm | Absolute accuracy: 3cm Relative accuracy: 2cm Repeatability: 2cm Thickness: 0.5cm |
Can be drone-mounted | No | Yes |
Can be car-mounted | No | Yes |
Can be used with extension pole | Yes | Yes |
LixelStudio: From raw scans to BIM-ready data
XGRIDS’ LixelStudio software transforms raw scans into survey-grade point clouds, supporting 2D drawings and automated modelling workflows.
With tools for distance measurement, section slicing, and component isolation, it ensures both accuracy and usability.
Lixel CyberColor Studio: Photorealistic and immersive 3DGS
Powered by 3D Gaussian Splatting (3DGS), Lixel CyberColor Studio delivers photorealistic modelling under diverse conditions — even low light.
Benefits include interactive tools with measurement, 3D overlays, AI recognition outputs, VR and AR experiences, and cross-platform compatibility.
It helps enable deeper collaboration and insight - against a backdrop of photorealistic digital assets.
Scan-to-BIM: Lixel CyberColor for Revit
LCC for Revit, developed in partnership with Autodesk, seamlessly connects Revit with LCC 3DGS models to deliver efficient, intuitive, and detail-rich BIM modelling experiences.
It enables scan-to-BIM in three simple steps - cutting modelling time by up to 90%:
Scan: 5 minutes to scan 120m² with Lixel scanners.
Process: 70 minutes to auto-generate 3DGS model.
Model: 2 minutes to create BIM in Revit.
How XGRIDS solutions benefit AEC pipelines
So, how does all of this benefit each stage of an AEC lifecycle?
The stages below are the same as the table higher in this blog - but this section highlights how the XGRIDS ecosystem helps.
Stage One: Status quo assessment and demand definition
1: Lower cost, higher efficiency:
Taking a 1,000m-square indoor office space as an example, the operation time required for different measurement methods is as follows:
2: Digital assets eliminate repeat site visits
The scanned data can be stored on a local computer in the form of point clouds or 3DGS models, accessible for viewing and measurement at any time.
Stage Two: Planning, validation, and conceptual design
1: Streamlined production
High-precision data supports 2D drawing and 3D modelling production by tracing point-cloud slices.
2: Real-time integration for immersive experiences
3DGS models work as a reality reference to AI modelling results and design modifications.
Stage Three: Detailed design and pre-construction
1: Scan-to-BIM facilitates collaboration
Scan-to-BIM enables cross-disciplinary collaboration from an early stage, accelerating detailed design delivery.
2: Digital rehearsal for less operational impact
Measureable 3D reality models can help optimise pre-construction by enabling digital site planning.
Stage Four: Construction execution and monitoring
1: Digital documentation and progress tracking
Lightweight scanning supports 3DGS-based reality capture for digital documentation and remote access.
2: BIM overlay for remote oversight
Partnership technology supports the overlay of 3DGS and BIM models to verify construction accuracy.
Stage Five: Handover, operations, and digital documentation
1: As-built scan for facilities management system reference and futural needs
Performing a scan before delivery preserves the potential of lightweight building information extraction, for digital operations and maintenance platform development, and enables futural upgrades or demolition.
Matching XGRIDS scanners for your project
XGRIDS ecosystem unlocks different solutions for different needs, depending on the size and type of the application.
Small-scale projects
Typical project: Home/office/hotel lobby renovation; Minor adjustment; Home retrofit.
Scenario features: Confined space; Frequent repositioning; Lightweight.
K1 | L2 Pro 16/120 | L2 Pro 32/120 | L2 Pro 32/300 |
|---|---|---|---|
Best solution • Lightweight. • Sufficient for close-range capture. • Cost-effective. | Recommended • Higher accuracy. • More stable data quality. • Wider site compatibility. | Unnecessary • Excessive performance. • ROI is not ideal. | Not recommended • Excessive performance. • Highest price. • Poor ROI. |
Medium-scale projects
Typical project: Single building reconstruction/extension; Commercial/institutional retrofit.
Scenario features: Exteriors, potential demand for aerial view; Interiors, potental demand for degraded environments like staircases and corridors.
K1 | L2 Pro 16/120 | L2 Pro 32/120 | L2 Pro 32/300 |
|---|---|---|---|
Not recommended • Not sufficient for facade, high-rise, or building scale distance measurement. | Best solution • Balances accuracy and deployment flexibility. • Suitable for designers and construction site supervisors. | Recommended • High-density point clouds, ideal for detailed modelling needs, like curtain walls and intricate decorative details. | Optional • If drone-assisted tasks are involved. |
Large-scale projects
Typical project: Neighbourhood/district regeneration.
Scenario features: Multiple buildings; Street environment; Open space; Mandatory for aerial view.
K1 | L2 Pro 16/120 | L2 Pro 32/120 | L2 Pro 32/300 |
|---|---|---|---|
Not recommended Unsuitable for large-area coverage. | Optional Suitable as a supplementary device for localised modelling. | Recommended Balances precision and efficiency. Ideal for block-scale tasks. | Best solution Long working range enables efficient block-scale coverage. Optional drone-assisted deployment for large-area setup. |
Real results in the field
Case Study: Skender Construction, Chicago
In multiple renovation projects across Illinois, Skender Construction replaced manual surveying with XGRIDS’ intelligent scanning solutions. Results include:
97% reduction in scanning time — from eight hours to under 20 minutes per floor.
Comprehensive 3D documentation enabling remote collaboration and design validation.
High-fidelity digital twins supporting Scan-to-BIM workflows and progress tracking.
By digitising every corner of a 40,000 sq ft expansion area in minutes, Skender minimised site disruption while unlocking continuous access to spatial intelligence.
Tangible and intangible value of spatial intelligence
The benefits of intelligent 3D capture extend far beyond efficiency:
Tangible impact | Intangible impact |
|---|---|
Lower travel costs | Remote oversight |
Time savings | Minimal on-site disruption |
High-precision data | Smoother collaboration |
Reduced labour input | Better visual communication |
In short, precision empowers progress — improving decision-making, reducing risk, and streamlining every stage from planning to operations.
The future of AEC: Digital, data-driven, and sustainable
As the AEC industry accelerates its digital transformation, spatial intelligence is becoming a foundational asset.
From prefabrication and robotics to BIM-integrated lifecycle management, accurate 3D data is key to meeting emerging ESG mandates and carbon neutrality goals.
With urban regeneration, reuse markets, and policy-driven retrofits on the rise, tools like XGRIDS position professionals to lead with confidence, sustainability, and precision.
heliguy™ is an XGRIDS partner and our in-house survey division can help you integrate XGRIDS solutions into your workflows, offering consultancy, demonstrations, supply, support, and data processing. Contact us for more information.
