Module 5 - Points to Ponder

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?

• Using a single building information model (BIM) is beneficial because it allows you to reference back to the original design as well as demolition and new construction plans throughout the design and building process. Additionally, it can be easier to find places with elements where the new and existing design phases may interfere with one another when all information is in one place. This can be helpful for knowing how to plan or build around existing infrastructure plans that are important in the project as well as ensuring accurate and feasible design proposals that are compatible with the current building during renovations. One may not want to create a separate model for the new proposed design because it can be easier to show different phases of the project in one BIM with accurate labeling, which can reduce confusion about what models represent what part of the project.

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

• When constructing in phases, you break up the larger construction project into smaller chunks to be completed individually, yet they come together in the end to form a larger finished product. However, this can introduce some technical complexities regarding safety and overall layout. By completing individual segments, you must integrate new pieces safely and while ensuring that the whole building is cohesive. Interfaces between the buildings may be harder to combine instead of constructing them all together because the HVAC, plumbing, and other systems throughout the building must come together in the end and function properly. You can prepare for these complexities when creating the initial building model by ensuring all pieces and measurements for the buildings are up to code and that the phases end up blending well in a reasonable order for the safe and sensible completion of the building.

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?

• Why not create a separate model for each of the design alternatives?

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?