"It's the end of the world as we know it..."
In the late 1980's, the rock band R.E.M. brought us this popular tune. So what does R.E.M. have in common with B.I.M. (building information modeling)? Not much really...other than the vision to realize that things change. In the last decade, B.I.M. has emerged in CAD (computer-aided design) software as the leading tool for architects and engineers. When I opened my own architectural practice, I purposefully chose ArchiCAD by Graphisoft for my business software. Even though the daunting task of retraining my mind how to work in my new environment, where time didn't seem to be a luxury, was almost too much to handle, I was committed to providing my clients with leading design. Gone are the days when draftmen assemble buildings through a series of drawings made up of 2-dimentional lines and arcs. Today, architects are able to construct virtual buildings before a single brick is laid, and do it with little effort. The beauty of this software is that while the design and the model are coming to life, the computer is helping to generate the 2-dimentional sheets needed to build from. The result - more time can be spent on the design. An added bonus is the tool that is available for architects to communicate the design to the client. Here is a sample image I presented to my client recently for a new worship center. Even though there is still much detail to be worked out, the client is able to visualize the design before thousands of dollars are spent. The possibilities are endless and there is much left to be realized. Change is good. It really is the end of the world as we know it.
In the late 1980's, the rock band R.E.M. brought us this popular tune. So what does R.E.M. have in common with B.I.M. (building information modeling)? Not much really...other than the vision to realize that things change. In the last decade, B.I.M. has emerged in CAD (computer-aided design) software as the leading tool for architects and engineers. When I opened my own architectural practice, I purposefully chose ArchiCAD by Graphisoft for my business software. Even though the daunting task of retraining my mind how to work in my new environment, where time didn't seem to be a luxury, was almost too much to handle, I was committed to providing my clients with leading design. Gone are the days when draftmen assemble buildings through a series of drawings made up of 2-dimentional lines and arcs. Today, architects are able to construct virtual buildings before a single brick is laid, and do it with little effort. The beauty of this software is that while the design and the model are coming to life, the computer is helping to generate the 2-dimentional sheets needed to build from. The result - more time can be spent on the design. An added bonus is the tool that is available for architects to communicate the design to the client. Here is a sample image I presented to my client recently for a new worship center. Even though there is still much detail to be worked out, the client is able to visualize the design before thousands of dollars are spent. The possibilities are endless and there is much left to be realized. Change is good. It really is the end of the world as we know it.
copyright - BK Architects, LLC, 2008
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1 comment:
I right there with you in regards to B.I.M and good choice going with ArchiCAD. Graphisoft is probably the most superior production tool for architects available. However, that tool is only part of our total arsenal and architects/designers should be cautious. First, is the relative output of BIM. Most of which ends in what I like to call BIM-syndrome. This happens when the designer is limited to either the software and/or modeling capabilities. The result being architecture that all looks similar. There is currently a backlash of firms that have reverted to traditional-hybrid techniques to achieve building design that is not yet possible with any BIM software. Also, BIM in practice and while in school can sometimes be very harmful for the inexperienced 3D thinker. For many years, architects have benefited by “drafting” 2D while simultaneous “thinking” in 3D...all while developing the unsophisticated mastery to visualize or sketch 3D space while in plan and/or section. With BIM this process is automated and can become a crutch for visual coordination. There will always be a need for 2D drafting, as thats just the nature of our profession. On the other hand, with the software competition available I think were almost there. I am in no way bashing your post and this technology, but I think this hits home with a lot of Drury and other student practitioners.
Congratulations and good luck with your practice!
I look forward to keeping up with your blog.
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