Abstract:

Use of analytical design data as a mechanism to control the façade configuration and geometry of Building Information Model (BIM) elements is currently promising and a new design paradigm. Typical design data or what we term here as ‘design constraints’ for a façade vary from one designer to another, examples are: spatial arrangements, penalization pattern, solar exposure, visibility control (privacy), and aesthetic preference. With BIM and computational design, the design could evolve from the earliest possible stages in a 3D digital format, and remains digital throughout the design process. The 3D model can hold the basic design constraints to parametrically control the arrangements of panels on the façade.

This presentation illustrates the key ideas for understanding how to integrate and implement design computation capabilities into the design workflow. It also discusses “Process Automation”, which defines how design computation can expedite and enhance standard task involved in the architectural design process. Then, development of a custom add-on for Revit that allows mapping of analytical data image on the façade surface geometry is discussed. Finally, two project case studies will be presented where an analytical data image is used to control the façade configuration and the Revit family geometry. Within the context of the case study, this presentation will demonstrate the advantages, challenges, and opportunities offered by advanced parametric technology in the context of architectural practice.

Learning Objectives:

• Discover possibilities and opportunities from utilizing BIM within an integrated design framework.
• Developed unique and innovative design thinking process using digital design tools.
• Bringing awareness to advanced computational and design optimization capabilities in Revit.
• Share the process on how to transfer the BIM model data to digital fabrication and track cost.

Short Profile:

Zaki Mallasi (PhD, MSc, LEED BD+C) is an Assistant Professor at Effat University (Jeddah, Saudi Arabia) teaching Design Studio, Energy & Design, BIM and supervises capstone students. His background and experience are revolving around passion to produce better informed-design, BIM, and computational design methods. Prior to that, he worked for Five years at Perkins+Will (Atlanta) as an Architectural BIM Specialist, being part of the firmwide BIM implementation team. Zaki received his BSc Arch. from the University of Khartoum, Sudan. He then obtained his MSc Arch. from University College London (UCL); followed by his PhD in 2004 from the University of Teesside, UK with focus on the use of 4D visualization in Architecture and Construction Planning. His primary Blog iConViz ® (www.iconviz.com/blog) is to showcase his BIM-related development aside to his consultancy. A key interest includes stewardship of the BIM model and leveraging integrated design workflow using parametric objects in design within architectural projects in pursuit of emerging Design Integration technologies.