Case Study – Architectural BIM for Hotel Project in Florida

Introduction

BIMPRO, LLC, a BIM services provider in Texas, was tasked with delivering comprehensive BIM modeling services for a prominent 5-story Hotel construction project in the Florida state. The project aimed to create a modern and efficient Hotel facility, adhering to the highest standards of quality and sustainability. We played a crucial role in facilitating efficient design, collaboration, and coordination through the implementation of BIM technology at various stages of the project.

Project Overview:

  • Project Name: Fairfield Inn & Suits 
  • Location: Florida, USA
  • Building Type: Hotel Facility
  • Project Scope: BIM Modeling Services, Construction Documents Set
  • Story: 5
  • LOD: 300/350
  • Area: Approx. 150,000 sq.ft.
  • Building Type: New Construction

Challenges

  • Design Complexity: The project featured intricate architectural & MEP designs and required a high level of BIM detailing and accuracy.
  • Coordination: The coordination among multiple disciplines, including architectural, mechanical, electrical and plumbing to ensure a seamless construction process.
  • Sustainability Goals: The project aimed to meet stringent sustainability standards, necessitating meticulous planning and modeling of energy-efficient components.
  • Cost Constraints: The project faced tight budget constraints, necessitating cost-effective design and construction solutions.
  • Deadline Pressure: Strict project deadlines had to be met to accommodate the academic calendar, leaving no room for coordination and construction delays.
  • Quality Assurance: Maintaining high-quality standards in design, construction, and materials selection was imperative to meet the client’s expectations.

Services Provided

BIMPRO, LLC provided a comprehensive range of architectural BIM services throughout the project’s design phases, primarily utilizing AutoCAD and Revit for modeling and documentation.

Schematic Design

  • Site Context Modeling: Creation of a 3D model of the project site, including topography and surrounding buildings, using AutoCAD.
  • Massing Studies: Development of preliminary massing models to explore design concepts in AutoCAD.
  • Conceptual Interior Spaces: Modeling of preliminary interior spaces to visualize the layout and flow in Revit.

Design Development

  • Detailed Architectural Components: Creation of detailed 3D models for all architectural components, including walls, floors, ceilings, doors, windows, and stairs, using Revit.
  • Exterior Envelope: Modeling of the building’s exterior envelope, facades, and cladding materials in Revit.
  • Interior Furnishings: Incorporation of interior furnishings, fixtures, and equipment into the BIM model for design validation in Revit.

Construction Documentation​

  • Dimensionally Accurate Models: Ensuring that all architectural elements were dimensionally accurate for construction documentation in Revit.
  • Parametric Families: Development of parametric families for doors, windows, and other architectural components in Revit to streamline documentation.
  • Quantity Takeoffs: Extraction of accurate quantities for cost estimation and procurement using AutoCAD and Revit.

BIM Execution Plan

A well-defined BIM execution plan was established and followed throughout the project. This plan outlined the following key aspects:

  • Scope and Objectives: Clearly defined the scope of BIM services, project goals, and expected outcomes.
  • BIM Standards and Guidelines: Stipulated the use of industry standards and guidelines, including AIA BIM guidelines and software standards (AutoCAD and Revit).
  • Roles and Responsibilities: Defined the roles and responsibilities of each project stakeholder, ensuring clear communication and accountability.
  • Model Development and LOD: Specified the level of development (LOD) requirements at various project stages (LOD 200, 300, and 400) for consistency and coordination.
  • Coordination and Collaboration: Outlined protocols and tools for collaboration among project stakeholders, emphasizing regular meetings and information sharing.

Results and Benefits

The well-executed BIM plan and the use of AutoCAD and Revit significantly contributed to the efficient delivery of the project, meeting deadlines and budgets.

Design Phase

  • Visualization: The 3D BIM model created using AutoCAD and Revit allowed all stakeholders to visualize the design in detail, facilitating design validation and decision-making.
  • Clash Detection: Clash detection services in the BIM model helped identify and resolve design conflicts early, minimizing costly changes later in the process.
  • Energy Analysis: Sustainability goals were achieved by using the BIM model for energy analysis and incorporating energy-efficient architectural components into the design.

Bidding Phase

  • Accurate Quantities: The BIM model allowed for precise quantity takeoffs, enabling accurate cost estimation and competitive bidding.
  • Visualization for Bidders: Bidders had access to the BIM model, improving their understanding of the project and enhancing the quality of bids.

Construction Phase

  • Construction Documentation: The dimensionally accurate BIM model served as the foundation for construction documentation, ensuring that the plans and specifications were consistent and complete.
  • Coordination: The BIM model continued to be used for coordination among trades and to address on-site issues promptly.
  • Reduced Change Orders: Early clash detection and design validation through the BIM model minimized costly changes during construction.

Client Testimonial

In short, BIMPRO played a pivotal role in the success of our educational project. We couldn’t have asked for a more professional, knowledgeable, and dedicated team to bring our vision to life. We highly recommend their services to anyone in need of top-notch BIM expertise.

– Architect Principal