Today, we will discuss the difference between BIM interior design and traditional interior design. Traditional design companies often require more time and manpower to complete various stages of a project. They are also more vulnerable to complex and unpredictable factors, such as outdated building pipelines and renovation processes. Early in each new renovation project, designers and constructors must rely heavily on their caution and attention to detail to avoid design errors and construction accidents.
In contrast, when interior designers use BIM (Building Information Modeling) integrated with advanced workflows, they can streamline the process from design to construction. Utilizing cloud technology or 3D scanning, designers establish a foundational model, then use pipeline survey instruments to automatically map the spatial layout. This approach allows the space to be presented through BIM’s integrated information and model materialization data. As a result, a detailed database is created between the designer and the owner, enabling efficient and high-quality communication for both parties.
【BIM Model】 The style and level of detail in BIM models may vary between architectural and interior design phases. During the architectural phase, the model’s level of detail can be based on the E202 document published by the American Institute of Architects (AIA). The Level of Development (LOD) is used as a standard measure, divided into five levels from LOD 100 to LOD 500. The term “D” can mean either “detail” or “development.” According to the AIA, “detail” refers to the graphical specifics of a model and may not include non-geometric information, whereas “development” includes additional data such as relevant building or material information within the model.
For construction phase BIM models, a minimum LOD 350 is typically required to provide sufficient detail. However, during interior design, it is essential to clearly present design and construction drawings that explain construction methods and details before work begins. This clarity is not always about geometric precision; it’s often about accurately describing materials and the interfaces between different materials. These details are critical for determining the completeness of an interior design. Therefore, interior designers should provide illustrations at LOD 300 or higher, but with an emphasis on dimensions, location, methods, and material specifications in the construction process.
In the design and construction phases, designers usually collaborate with builders or decoration contractors after completing the construction drawings before handing them over for the creation of manufacturing drawings.
If the construction company has already completed the BIM project model, the LOD can be seen as a reuse of the interior design level. The construction company’s model is not deepened or altered; instead, the interior design is developed based on the original model, focusing on materials and details specific to interior design. This approach does not refine the original BIM model’s precision but creates a new design model scaled for interior design purposes.
For example, as shown in Figure 7 (a), traditional interior design drawings typically illustrate vertical and horizontal sections with material content. In contrast, Figure 7 (b) demonstrates how BIM models provide corresponding 3D sectional models and real-time perspectives. This enables designers to better evaluate their design outcomes, improves communication between construction workers and designers, and helps homeowners better visualize and experience the space.
Additionally, because the drawings and models contain detailed material information and construction specifics, they serve as effective records for each detail. This information is invaluable for future maintenance and upkeep.
That wraps up our discussion on the difference between BIM interior design and traditional interior design. I hope this article has been helpful!
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