How BIM helps architects make better design decisions

360-degree view provides better project clarity, leading to faster client approvals

With BIM, architects can rapidly create design prototypes with 3D Revit models and make concurrent design competitions and revisions. With a 360-degree view of designs and models, clients can visualize areas and spaces more realistically before actual construction. This results in quicker client approvals.

BIM also provides better 3D architectural visualization of projects in the context of neighborhoods and overall site connectivity.

56% of US architects in a survey claimed BIM collaboration solutions improved client satisfaction

Parametric and computational designing improves space planning

The haste of meeting deadlines multiplies the chances of design errors in every construction project where legacy methods are used. With 3D modeling and tools like Revit Architecture, architects can do parametric designing and execute projects faster with greater accuracy.

Parametric designs coupled with automation tools like Dynamo provide improved generative design through their ease of producing and managing multiple prototypes. Design uniformity, model validation, customized scripting, reduction in repetitive tasks, etc. enrich parametric capabilities with agile workflows. Spatial planning improvements are achieved through modeling simulations for generative design. Preemptive 3D visualization capabilities pinpoint every architectural aspect in the 3D space.

Coordinated architectural drawings address conflicts in the early design stage

Designing in preconstruction phase is crucial for setting a strong base for construction, operations, and renovation. The use of BIM from early stages helps architects to reduce design conflicts and create accurately detailed layouts. Effective BIM clash detection means fewer RFIs and change orders in the construction stage. Coordinated drawings extracted from 3D models and instant clash reports reduce review and approval times.

With a significant reduction in design errors brought by BIM, architects can commit to tighter timelines. Higher transparency, and ease of meeting client expectations coupled with less rework, makes BIM indispensable in construction design. Also, BIM can easily automate documentation output and parts of design cycles, thus leading to greater productivity.

Architectural visualization in 3D geometry helps to estimate accurate material quantities and costs

Information-rich 3D BIM models referenced with real-life building objects can help architects keep an accurate count of material quantity and costs. BIM makes it simpler for architectural firms to understand a project’s scope from start to end.

Changes or modifications are easily integrated into the model for higher accuracy and visibility of information. Identifying spatial clashes, checking feasibility, running error corrections, etc. can take up a significant amount of an architects’ time. But with relevant and action-based data in 3D geometry, and supported by collaboration, higher accuracy is reached in estimates of costs and materials.

Precise energy analysis in the 3D model calls for greater building sustainability

Accurate energy calculations within a Revit model help architects save on additional resources, costs, and time, and in getting LEED certifications. Architectural rendering with running walkthroughs and simulations in real-time with VR capabilities also help architects achieve improved sustainability. Energy calculations for a sustainable design using Revit APIs, Dynamo, or other tools can significantly reduce negative environmental impact.

Sustainable design has become mandatory and also crucial for the AEC industry. And BIM is regularly used for building performance analysis, optimizing building equipment, and plan for healthy and green buildings. With tools like Revit, architects can leverage daylighting capabilities, passive heating, PV energy generation, natural ventilation, etc. BIM-based sensitive designs make use of modern lighting technologies for various areas of a building such as walls, roof, windows, etc.

Panning the 3D model in real time allow architects to visualize every architectural component with pinpoint accuracy. Environmental performance becomes more predictable through multiple 3D views and accurate data integration.

Precise and complete datasets help seamless handover of facilities

Reliable and complete datasets derived from each stage of the building process are used to run operations easily after a handover. 3D models, BIM-based drawings, and other documentation can help to manage operational costs and save on maintenance.

Facility management systems like COBie integrated with BIM deliverables also provide non-geometric data that includes name, specifications, number, warranty, dimensions, manufacturer, etc.