Balancing modernisation with cultural heritage preservation remains a core challenge in integrating smart technologies into historic cities. This study conducts a systematic literature review and qualitative content analysis of 42 peer-reviewed articles across the fields of urban planning, smart technologies, heritage conservation, and place making to address this issue. Through thematic coding using MAXQDA (2020), it identifies recurring themes and patterns that inform the development of a conceptual framework. The findings reveal that cultural heritage sites contribute to smart city planning by reinforcing place-based identity, enabling participatory governance, and supporting culturally sustainable innovation. The study also addresses a critical gap in existing smart city frameworks, which often fail to systematically incorporate cultural values and local identity in their planning logic. The proposed framework integrates cultural heritage with smart city development through place making and provides structured guidance for policymakers and urban planners by outlining four key areas—digital infrastructure, community participation, spatial design, and heritage preservation—while also acknowledging the challenges of applying it across diverse socio-cultural and technological contexts.

The implementation of two pre-occupancy evaluation tools (P-OET) demonstrating the feasibility of using mixed reality are documented. The focus is on the early design stages, where relative merits of distinct options are being considered. For proof-of-concept, a simple architectural design context was used – the simulation of a typical commercial office environment. Four principles underpin the specification of a Virtual Reality (VR) prototype: (1) quasi-realistic graphics and low geometry models; (2) a multi-sensory approach (3) the capacity to evaluate changes in temporal context (4) evaluation via a task-based approach, combined with voice recordings and activity tracking. The second prototype uses Augmented Reality (AR) technology to compare design options where interactive virtual models appear on a conference table. Evaluation of the prototype applications is discussed: VR POET proved highly feasible and demonstrated the effectiveness of the four principles above; AR POET showed potential but is constrained by the functionality of available hardware.

This paper details the design, fabrication and evaluation strategies of the full-scale aluminium panel prototypes developed for a kinetic hybrid facade. The concept of a hybrid facade was proposed as an approach to maximise the value of kinetic intelligent building systems. The overarching research project investigates the potential, feasibility and real-life applications of a hybrid facade that integrates environmental, media and individual micro-control functions in one compound solution operating through autonomous rotating panels. This paper describes the ongoing hybrid facade project’s third research stage, focusing on the manufacturing and feasibility evaluation of the self-powered, wirelessly controlled, full-scale kinetic facade panel prototypes fabricated from aluminium sheet. This study contributes to the field of hybrid kinetic facade systems through investigating approaches to fabrication, kinetic set-up and performance, and a material and economic feasibility assessment through cost and LCA.

The overarching goal of this project is to enable pre-occupancy evaluation in architecture. This project uses computational techniques and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies to develop and test an innovative method for decision-making enabled by collaborative multi-sensory pre-occupation of designs. A gaming engine was used to develop an immersive VR environment that allowed users to explore architectural spaces within a range of time-specific spatial conditions. This paper presents comparative user studies between VR and paper-based evaluation approaches. Two experimental streams were carried out including architecture professionals and students. This manuscript presents background studies, proposed methods, and results of user testing. Significant differences in responses between architecture practitioners and architecture students were identified, including satisfaction levels of visual and acoustic qualities of architectural spaces; and the ease of using VR for pre-occupancy assessments. The professional population was also more likely to change their original choice after being immersed in the VR experience.

It has been demonstrated that kinetic sunscreens linked to intelligent building systems have the potential to improve the energy performance of large-scale public and commercial buildings. However, there has been minimal uptake, primarily due to the capital and maintenance costs. This study proposes that costs can be offset through adding value by repurposing the sunscreening system as a low-resolution media screen. To evaluate the feasibility of this hybrid environmental-media facade concept, physical prototypes has developed and calibrated to real-time simulation and control software; and two case studies were undertaken to assess the physical and economic feasibility. This article introduces the rationale for a hybrid façade, documents the prototypes and case studies, and outlines further work on control systems for a truly smart building façade.

This study examines the role of cultural heritage sites as facilitators of place making within the evolving paradigm of smart city development. As cities worldwide adopt data-driven models of governance, integrating cultural identity and heritage becomes increasingly critical. This research addresses the conceptual and practical gap in understanding how heritage can support inclusive, sustainable, and meaningful urban transformation in smart city contexts. To do so, it selects Geelong in Australia as a case study. The study then employs a qualitative methodology drawing on semi-structured interviews with experts and professionals across urban planning, architecture, sustainability, and heritage management. Thematic analysis derived five key themes: heritage as an identity anchor, digital technologies enhancing cultural narratives, community engagement, adaptive reuse, and economic-policy integration. Findings highlight that heritage sites are dynamic assets that foster community identity, historical continuity, and digital storytelling. Digital tools enhance the visibility and accessibility of heritage, while adaptive reuse strategies align cultural preservation with environmental sustainability and economic growth. The resulting conceptual and assessment framework positions heritage both as a cultural and functional urban asset, offering actionable insights for planners, policymakers, and designers aiming to create smart cities that are not only technologically advanced but also socially inclusive and culturally grounded.