Style: July 01, 2019

STYLE | architecture 39
Enter Building Information Modelling, or BIM. The
building industry has been using Computer Aided
Design for decades, but until recently, it was largely
replicating the analogue 2D drawing process in a
digital format. The advent of BIM has revolutionised
the way architects and engineers design and visualise
buildings in 3D – not only the façade and structure,
but also all the services throughout the building.
BIM involves creating three-dimensional buildings
in digital form. It is a process of collaboration and
communication between all members of the design
team. Each designer creates a 3D digital model of
their building element and the models are combined
into one ‘virtual’ building. Specialist software is used
to analyse the models and identify clashes early in
the design process, so they can be resolved before
construction begins. This helps us coordinate all the
small details that make the building function. We are
essentially constructing the building in a digital format,
so we can highlight and resolve issues before the
contractor sets foot on site.
BIM is also becoming more common in other parts
of the building industry. Quantity Surveyors can use
the models for cost management, quickly calculating
quantities of materials required. Contractors can
use the model during construction to help visualise
spaces and details before they are built. Fabricators
can import the model into their own CAD systems
for automated off-site prefabrication of building
elements, such as structural steel. Building owners
are also increasingly using BIM to assist with facilities
management once the building is complete.
Dalman Architects has recently completed the
architectural documentation on Hotel 4, a new 146-
room hotel at Auckland Airport. We are the BIM
Manager on the project and have combined models
from nine different consultants and managed the
BIM coordination process from early concept design
through to construction.
The building has been digitally constructed and
now it’s the builder’s turn to take over and bring our
virtual building into the real world.
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