Module 5 - Points to Ponder

What sort of complexities are introduced when you construct a building complex in phases?

• The interfaces between buildings become hidden as phases advances. This can make it difficult to see all the aspects of the design. It’s important to keep track of which elements are in each phase. You also have to think about how a change in phase 1 could affect placements in phase 2. It’s important that we don’t create hinderances or unmovable elements. To plan and prepare for these in the initial model, you should create clear phases with distinct objectives that you want to demonstrate. You also want to make specific and clean views and sheets. Like we did in this project, you should create demolition elements that you can track through phases.

What are the principal advantages of using a single building information model of the existing conditions as the foundation for modeling several proposed design alternatives for a portion of the building?

It’s helpful to use the existing conditions for proposed design alternatives because it’s easier to reference as your designing. It’s also more time-efficient so you don’t have to constantly recreate the existing condition. It also helps tell a better story for stakeholders. Contrasting the existing and new stages in the same model, helps people see the differences you want to make. Using the existing model can also be helpful with design alternatives that are minimal.