What are the principal advantages of using a single building information model of the existing conditions as the foundation for modeling proposed additions or renovations?
- Why not create a separate model for the new proposed design?
A singular building information model that contains both the existing and the new design provides a singular point of reference. Any overlap between the existing and new construction can easily be pointed out and addressed either by demolition or revision of the new design. Thus, any issues with construction can be avoided.
In your project, which features of the proposed design did you choose to model as design alternatives?
- Why did you choose these building features? And what were the biggest challenges in modeling them as the design alternatives?
I chose to provide design alternatives for the layout of the cafeteria and terrace areas. Since these areas will accommodate the largest amount of people at a given time, it was important to provide different layouts to take advantage of the large area and open concept for those areas. The biggest challenge when modeling the alternatives was deciding how the space could best be utilized and what might be more important to the client who wants a center built for students.