The Atlantic College case study

This paper discusses and illustrates how the use of building information modelling (BIM) can be an essential tool for the design and maintenance of buildings, which are to be refurbished following a sustainable methodology.

It is based upon a case study that explores how a small design practice, using Archicad 3D BIM interchangeably with Ecotect building performance analysis software, can thus compete with major practices in providing a superior service to clients, by demonstrating that the regeneration of a group of existing buildings is both more cost effective and more sustainable than new build.

While BIM is still only generally used for new build, the paper also examines how and why expensively recording existing buildings in 3D using BIM with a somewhat different approach has nevertheless been found elsewhere to be cost effective in subsequent facilities management and conservation management.