Building Information Modelling (BIM) beyond an efficiency and costs’ saving method. The use of BIM as a mediator towards collaboration, sustainable design and design exploration.

Abstract

In the age of the Anthropocene, architecture has to face critical challenges that are affecting the quality of life and the existence of life in a globalised form. Accordingly, the job of the architect is shifting from mere form-giving to creating systems that support human interactions.

BIM can provide the common ground upon which the design team can interact and collaborate in order to create the conditions under which the participants can design. That is, to create environments in which conversations can emerge. It is a methodology, that recognises circular causality as a quality and thus creates a system, in which the goals are negotiated in an open-ended and integrated process.

Digital simulation tools allow the designers to reflect in action while testing their intentions.

This study proposes a further investigation in the way in which digital tools inform decision making during the design stage.

Keywords: BIM, design exploration, collaboration