GRAPHISOFT > Case Studies > Coste Architectures: Leveraging OPEN BIM for Winning Architectural Designs

Coste Architectures: Leveraging OPEN BIM for Winning Architectural Designs

Technology Category

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) - Virtual Private Cloud
Wearables - Virtual Reality Glasses, Headsets & Controllers

Applicable Industries

Buildings
Cement

Applicable Functions

Maintenance
Product Research & Development

Use Cases

Building Automation & Control
Structural Health Monitoring

Services

System Integration

About The Customer

CARENE is a developer based in Saint-Nazaire. In 2013, they chose Coste Architecture’s design for their Aquatic Center. The design was selected for its compliance with the program, energy and environmental proposals, and innovative architectural proposal. CARENE represented a virtuous approach by asking for an overall construction budget and an additional budget for clean energy initiatives from each of the candidates. They quickly perceived the benefits of using BIM proposed by the Coste Agency, such as 3D Visualization and Virtual Tour, minimizing error risks and extra costs during construction, and building operation and maintenance. CARENE decided to train its teams internally on BIM.

The Challenge

In 2013, CARENE, a Saint-Nazaire developer, selected Coste Architecture’s design for their Aquatic Center. The design was not only compliant with the program but also demonstrated energy and environmental proposals, and an innovative architectural proposal – 3 wavy roofs supported by poles. The challenge was to manage the project effectively, especially considering the technical innovations involved, such as the structural columns in seismic zones. The project also required close collaboration with water and energy experts due to the high environmental quality energy requirements of the aquatic center. The architectural proposal of three roofs in the form of waves, supported by structural laminaria shaped columns in a seismic zone, called for true collaboration with structural engineers specializing in Ultra High Performance Fiber Concrete.

The Solution

Coste Architectures leveraged Building Information Modeling (BIM) to manage the project effectively. BIM was used in the design phase to detect problems as early as possible in the project, thus avoiding most risks of error and surprises. The 3D model developed in Archicad was used for immersive virtual presentations with BIMx, internal animations made simple and fast with Artlantis, and easy export of the model for the CGI artist. The use of BIM also assured seamless coordination between all stakeholders, leading to positive results of the collaborative work. Decisions could be made from as early as the preliminary design phase, saving valuable time for the future course of the project. The agency and their BIM Manager chose to deal with three batches of IFC in Archicad: the main structure, the frame, and the MEP network. The exchange of the digital model created in Archicad worked equally well with Revit MEP, Tekla Structures, AllPlan, and Solibri.

Operational Impact

The use of BIM in the design phase of the Aquatic Centre in Saint-Nazaire resulted in a seamless coordination between all stakeholders. The 3D model developed in Archicad was used for immersive virtual presentations, internal animations, and easy export of the model for the CGI artist. This not only enhanced the visualization of the project but also improved communication and consultation. The use of BIM also minimized error risks and extra costs during construction. The developer, CARENE, was so convinced by the successful integration of BIM in the early stages of the project that they intend to continue its use for subsequent phases of the project.

Quantitative Benefit

The use of BIM allowed for early detection of problems, reducing the risk of errors and surprises.
The use of BIM allowed for decisions to be made from the preliminary design phase, saving valuable time for the future course of the project.
The exchange of the digital model created in Archicad worked equally well with Revit MEP, Tekla Structures, AllPlan, and Solibri, demonstrating the flexibility and interoperability of the system.