From Representation to Simulation. The impacts of BIM on Architectural Design

Abstract

Building information modelling is an information delivery method that is made available for the use of architects and the other actors of the architecture, engineering and construction industry. In recent years, in many countries it became an obligatory project delivery mode for architects. As a result, prevailing use of this method alters the modes of notation and the logic of design in architectural offices. While architects used to employ representations of the design to communicate with other parties, with the BIM methods and software they are forced to create information models which can be regarded as simulations of a future building and are open to the control and revisions of other participants who are involved in building processes. Since it promotes a collaborative production and gathering whole information on a single model, it brings many opportunities such as increased reliability, foreseeing of costs and calculation of efficiency. However, by causing architects to change their accustomed ways of working, BIM also effects design approaches of architects and the nature of architecture. In this regard this paper aims to discover in which aspects BIM methods have impacts on architecture and alter the focus of architectural design especially in the designing processes at the architectural offices. The paper mainly depends on current literature and aims to analyse current conditions in relation with the old habits.