BIM is the discipline of designing a building as a single coordinated 3D model rather than as a set of separate drawings. Every element carries data about what it is, what it’s made of, how it connects, and what happens to it in construction and use. Drawings issued from it are consistent by construction, quantities are accurate as of the moment they’re exported, and coordination between disciplines happens in design time rather than on site. We work in BIM as standard on every project — the effort sits inside our fixed fee.
What it means in practice
A wall is not a line; it’s a wall of a specific construction, thickness, insulation value and material. A window is not a rectangle; it’s a window of specific size, glazing performance and installation detail.
Once the model exists, everything downstream comes from it. Plans, sections, elevations and details are views into the same model, so they cannot contradict each other. Quantities export as data, not counted by hand. Clash detection compares structure, drainage and services against the fabric before drawings are issued.
On coordinated projects the model integrates with the structural engineer’s, the services engineer’s and any specialists. That’s where BIM does its most valuable work — on traditionally drawn projects, the contractor finds the coordination problems, and every one becomes a variation.
What you get as a client
A 3D model you can walk through at any stage of design. Drawings that are consistent, up to date and internally coordinated. Accurate quantities for tender — contractors bid tighter against real data. Fewer variations on site. A digital asset at handover, genuinely useful for future alterations, insurance and sale.
What we deliver
- Fully coordinated 3D model of existing and proposed
- Clash detection before tender
- Accurate quantities and schedules for pricing
- Interactive visualisations at every design stage
- Drawing packages generated from the single model
- IFC exports for other consultants
- BIM Execution Plan on ISO 19650 projects
- Model handed over as a digital asset at completion
How the process runs
Set up
Model set up at the start with the right templates and exchange formats.
Model
Existing and proposed built in 3D from survey data. Materials and specs attached.
Coordinate
Structure, drainage and services resolved together. Clashes closed out.
Quantify
Schedules exported for contractors to price against. Updates automatically.
Deliver
Construction drawings issued from the model, consistent by construction.
Standards and regulations that apply
The standards we work within.
The core BIM standard, adopted in the UK to replace PAS 1192.
The umbrella framework hosting ISO 19650 and supporting guidance.
Open, vendor-neutral format for cross-discipline model exchange.
The British Standard for BIM library objects.
Structured spreadsheet for handover asset data on larger projects.
The golden thread of information delivered through the BIM model.
Common questions
Will I see my project in 3D? +
Yes, at every design stage. Most clients find decisions much easier in 3D than on plan.
Does BIM cost more? +
No. Modelling sits inside our fixed design fee. On balance it saves money by tighter tender pricing and fewer variations on site.
Do contractors need BIM software? +
No. Contractors receive conventional drawings and schedules. The BIM benefit is baked in.
What is BIM Level 2? +
The UK standard for centrally-procured public projects since 2016. We apply the working method to all projects, not just those where it’s mandated.
Can BIM handle existing and heritage buildings? +
Yes. The case is often stronger — a model of the existing fabric makes coordination with new work possible.
Who owns the model? +
Typically the client, on payment in full, with the practice retaining design copyright. Same principle as conventional drawings.
What happens to it after completion? +
Handed over as part of completion documentation. Sensible clients keep it for future alterations and asset management.
Get in touch and we’ll talk through what BIM looks like on your project.