BIM in Architecture
What is BIM?
Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a holistic and collaborative process of creating and managing digital information for a construction project. In the past, architects rely purely on hand-drawn blueprints, and transited to using Computer Aided Design (CAD). Now, BIM is revolutionizing the process of architectural design and construction.
IXA is a firm advocate in implementing BIM in our day-to-day operations, from design inception, technical coordination, to construction documentation.
Spatial Virtualization
BIM uses 3-D modeling software to generate our designer’s designs and client’s needs from imagination into digital representations. IXA uses this exciting technology to create 3D models, renders, simulations, videos and virtual walkthrough. BIM enables all project members to better visualize, experience, review and plan the spaces!
These are examples of the videos created for our clients to visualise their projects, made possible with our BIM capabilities:
PARAMETRIC DESIGN
#1 Parametric Façade Screen for an Office
Inspired by coconut forms, the circular façade panels bring a fresh breath of air to the row of buildings. The façade is conscientiously programmed to have an undulating form. Grasshopper acts as a generative modeling tool for rhino, to generate the parametric design according to the parameters to meet our desired design intent efficiently.
As a form of solar shading device, the panels are programmed to minimize direct sunlight and glare into the interior spaces. This strategy will effectively help to reduce the internal temperature in the tropical climate.
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At the same time, the panels are thoughtfully generated in terms of its porosity and inclination. This provides panoramic views of the environment outwards, while composing a beautiful and unique façade from the outside.
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#2 Decorative Façade Screen for a Temple
The exterior façade of the Temple building becomes an item of craft itself. It appears to have almost a lace-like quality, but is well-balanced when it comes together with other heavy stone textures found around the building.
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In this façade design, we superimposed 2 intricate layers of octagonal panels of varying porosity – taking into account its effect onto the interior, sun shading needs against the west sun and even construction feasibility. Varying extent of porosity was generated during design exploration to balance the functionality and aesthetics. Traditional motifs are also programmed to be located at suitable areas.
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#3 3D Artwork Display
The ‘Green Rhapsody’ had been exhibited in AUDE Exhibition 2019 at URA Center. It illustrated the 3 components as 3 cocoons that are weaved together as an integral whole. The form of the exhibit is organic, natural yet anchored on interactive parameters that are a reflection of our parametric approach towards Green Architecture.
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The exhibits were made of plywood, stringed together in cable ties. There 3 variations of panels: solid panel, framed panel, and panel with decorative cut-outs. Via parametric program, multiple forms and arrangement of the panels are generated. An ideal iteration which is optimized in its form, porosity and composition was subsequently selected.
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These openings provide views into its interior where the illustration, text and models are placed. Selected panels are decorated with botanical-inspired cut-outs to reflect our office’s focus on green design. Texts and images are printed on transparency, which gives the artwork an inspiring and amazing glow!
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