Comparison of Traditional Interior Design and BIM Interior Design Processes
The use of BIM (Building Information Modeling) in interior design originates from the fundamental principles of architectural design. The BIM workflow is typically divided into three main phases: conceptual design, detailed design, and construction drawings. This process outlines the software and parametric tools used at each stage, employing different layers and files to enable interactive drawing collaboration. However, from an interior design perspective, BIM users must first complete the drawings and modeling of the main building structures and adjacent spaces, while also considering environmental factors such as the microclimate within the interior space before truly beginning the interior design phase.
While the overall process and software tools in interior design share many similarities with architectural design, interior design focuses more on enhancing lifestyle and quality. It involves creatively using natural elements and artificial materials without compromising the building’s mechanical or structural systems. As a result, the iterative process and attention to detail in interior design are often more complex than in architectural design. Beyond fundamental considerations like spatial flow and material selection, interior design requires in-depth discussion and communication regarding details closely linked to the homeowner’s personal preferences, such as floor textures, curtain fabrics, furniture styles, and tablecloth colors.
Traditional design firms typically require more time and manpower to complete each phase of work. They are often challenged by unpredictable factors like aging building pipelines and renovation complexities. Early stages of renovation projects rely heavily on the meticulousness of designers and contractors to avoid design flaws and construction mishaps. Conversely, even if construction companies do not provide BIM models for older buildings, interior designers can leverage advanced BIM integration techniques during the design phase. Using cloud-based tools along with point cloud technology or 3D scanning, designers can create a foundational model that spans from design through construction. Additionally, pipeline survey instruments can automatically map the spatial positions, allowing the space to be integrated with BIM data and represented as a detailed model. This establishes a comprehensive database between the designer and homeowner, facilitating efficient, high-quality communication.
The level of detail and presentation style in BIM models differs between the construction phase and the interior design phase. During construction, BIM models follow the Level of Development (LOD) standards set by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) in the E202 document, ranging from LOD 100 to LOD 500. It is important to note that the “D” in LOD refers to both “detail” and “development,” with the AIA defining “detail” as graphic information and “development” as including non-geometric data such as building materials. Construction BIM models typically require at least LOD 350 or higher, which includes comprehensive non-geometric information. In contrast, the interior design phase demands clear presentation of design and construction drawings that explain construction methods and material details prior to execution. This is less about geometric precision and more about accurately describing materials and interface construction details. Therefore, interior design BIM deliverables should meet or exceed LOD 300, with thorough explanations about dimensions, locations, construction methods, and material specifications.
From the perspective of designers and builders, designers generally engage with builders or decorators after completing construction drawings and then provide these parties with manufacturing drawings for further detailing. If the construction company has already developed a BIM project model, the interior design LOD can be considered a reuse of that model without modifying or enhancing the original construction model. Instead, the interior design develops its own design model, focusing on interior elements and materials based on the existing structural BIM model, without increasing the original model’s detail level.
Traditional interior design drawings typically illustrate content and materials in vertical and horizontal sections. BIM models, however, offer complementary 3D sectional models and real-time perspective views. This capability helps designers verify their work, improves communication with construction teams, and aids homeowners in visualizing and experiencing the space. Furthermore, because BIM models include material properties and construction details, they serve as a valuable record for future maintenance and upkeep.
That concludes the comparison of traditional interior design and BIM interior design processes. I hope this article has been helpful!
For more related articles, please click here to read BIM Interior Design.
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