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Building Information Management (or is it Modelling?) is the new key to successful projects. Potential failure can be prevented by erecting a complete virtual model of the building. It allows all partners in the planning process to work together on the same ‘drawing’.

A team of 8 people at ABT and HvM is working on a super detailed mega model of Groninger Forum. Word has it that it is the first project in the Netherlands that includes the installations in the BIM Model. The crew at Huisman en van Muijen is drawing up all ventilation ducts, vents, shafts, pipes, fixtures, bulbs, switches and sprinklers in 3D CAD. Mesmerizing… So far 4.200 ‘clashes’ have been detected and subsequently resolved. What? WOW!

Since a few years we’re working with Revit. We’re excited with the possibilities of cyber structure but we’ve been frustrated with the visual output; we’ve been struggling with the aesthetics.

But now we slowly start to discover how to represent the Model in more appealing ways. Both re-rendering BIM in visualization software and plain black and white hidden line snapshots turn the model in a mind-blowing architectural version of Body Worlds.

BIM is beautiful reveals the stunning intricacy of the ‘intestines’ the will remain hidden under the ‘hood’, it exposes the dizzying organism that will be obscured by lowered ceilings and computer floors.

The relevance of the Architect is once again at stake. If you master the software you might stay on board. If not: oblivion. The paradox of this ‘open’ drawing: you’re either in, or you’re out…

The Forum Fundamentals are an attempt to reclaim some of the terrain. BIM is beautiful is now part of the exhibit “Invisible City” in Cityscapes Gallery and a 9 meter long BIM wallpaper is on display in the White Box at PBSA in Düsseldorf.