Here at SYNCRO architecture studio we use Building Information Modeling, or BIM, to design and document buildings on which we are working. Many of our project involve adaptive reuse of existing buildings, so often we begin by measuring and modeling the site and building as we find them. One clear advantage to BIM over computer-aided-design and drafting (CADD) is that the virtual rendition of the built environment is in 3-D with BIM. One 3-dimensional model can be created, then viewed in multiple manners to provide a varied output of many 2-D drawings. The BIM model is not simply a rendition of geometry, but a complex database of information about the materials and relationships among the virtual components. Parametric capabilities allow manipulation of geometries and materials to study alternatives.

Soon I will be posting graphic examples from our current projects: an elementary school, a single-family residence and a restaurant.