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CHAPTER 1 Understanding BiM: FroM the Basics to advanced realities
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 construc-
tion 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 Bernini,
and Francesco Borromini. These architects are often referred to as the master builders, because
they were involved in all facets of the design and construction of buildings.
Over time, however, architecture became more and more academic as building typologies
solidified, and under the influence of Beaux Arts tradition, classical reconstructions on paper
and in model form became part of the formative education of the architect. The design profes-
sion began its gradual separation from the building trades. The notion of design process and
iterative problem solving became critical attributes of a design professional—in many cases
superseding knowledge of construction means and methods.
With modern architecture, solving abstract spatial problems, accommodating program-
matic 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 archi-
tecture, and buildings became increasingly machine-like. Consider all the office towers and
commercial office parks that have emerged, each with internal mechanical systems to keep them
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, producing
details, working with a wide range of consultants, and still having to create sketches for contrac-
tors 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 these questions: Will
all these drawings be necessary in the near future? Will the adoption of BIM lead to new ways of
communicating 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 creating 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
construction starts.
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