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CHAPTER 1 Understanding BiM: FroM the Basics to advanced realities
those days (14th–17th centuries), the architect was brought up in the tradition of building and
had integral knowledge of how buildings were constructed. Palladio, like many other architects
of his day, grew up as a stonemason. Building techniques were deeply embedded in the con-
struction trades, which in turn spawned the great architects of the time. Other master masons
and sculptors who were also architects include the likes of Filippo Brunelleschi, Giovanni Ber-
nini, and Francesco Borromini. These architects are often referred to as the master builders—
they were integrated into all facets of the design and construction of architecture.
Over time, however, architecture became more and more academic as building typologies
solidified, and classical reconstructions on paper and in model form became part of the forma-
tive education of the architect. The design profession began its gradual separation from the
building trades. The notion of design process and iterative problem solving became critical attri-
butes of a design professional—in many cases superseding knowledge of construction means
and methods.
With modern architecture, solving abstract spatial problems, accommodating programmatic
elements, and experimenting with new materials became driving forces. The machine age and
the promise of mass production were idealized and fully embraced. Le Corbusier’s (1887–1965)
romantic vision of steamships and automobiles inspired a new generation of architecture, and
buildings became increasingly machine-like. Consider all the office towers and commercial
office parks that have emerged, with their internal mechanical systems used to keep buildings
operational.
As buildings continued to grow in complexity, both technically and programmatically, the
architect grew more removed from the act of physical construction. Modern materials such as
steel and reinforced concrete became prevalent, and complex building systems were introduced.
In turn, the production of more detailed drawings became a legal and practical requirement.
Structural engineers and mechanical engineers were added to the process, as need for special-
ized knowledge of building systems grew. No longer could the architect expect to produce a
few simple drawings and have a building erected. Complexity in building systems demanded
greater amounts of information, and this information was delivered in the form of larger and
more complex construction document sets. Architects today find themselves drafting, produc-
ing details, working with a wide range of consultants, and still having to create sketches for con-
tractors in the field in order to resolve the complexity of construction assemblies.
The traditional production of plans, sections, and elevations continues to this day, but with
far more drawings than in the days of Palladio. At the same time, we ask: Will all these draw-
ings be necessary in the near future? Will the adoption of BIM lead to new ways of commu-
nicating the design, new delivery methods, new forms of construction, and new roles for the
architect? Can a shift in technology lead to a shift in thinking about the building process?
Building Information Modeling
Fast-forward to the present context and the advent of building information modeling: the pro-
duction of drawings is now streamlined by building a digital 3D model composed of virtual
building elements. These elements are loaded with data that describe not only geometry, but
also material, fire rating, cost, manufacturer, count, and just about any other metadata you can
imagine. The focus moves from 2D abstractions to integrated model delivery. It’s now possible to
detect spatial clashes between the multitudes of complex systems in the building. You can know
with confidence whether ductwork will interfere with the structural steel long before construc-
tion starts.
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