BIM advancing more efficient and streamlined delivery of healthcare design.
This case study highlights how Building Information Modelling (BIM) streamlined the design and construction of a state-of-the art surgical centre at North Shore Hospital in Takapuna. Modelling every aspect of the building – from user engagement to shop drawings – enabled easy understanding and transfer of design and construction information between members of the project team and assisted the project’s delivery on time and to budget.
More than just a ‘new facility’, North Shore Hospital’s Elective Surgery Centre (ESC) facilitates the delivery of a radically different surgical model. A complex project covering 5,983 square metres, this two-storey building allows for fast turnaround of surgical services.
BIM was used to create a virtual 3D prototype of the building prior to construction. The project team individually modelled the mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) systems in 3D. These separate models were then layered to create a single integrated model containing all of these services, including everything from supporting beams, floors and walls to partitions, powerpoints and ducting. It enabled the project team to easily identify clashes between these elements. Slices of the building in 3D were then taken to produce 2D drawings to refine details such as insulation to ensure Building Code compliance. These details were fed back into the 3D model. Using BIM as a tool, planning sessions were held with each of the different departments using the Elective Surgery Centre to help design internal space layouts. The design models provided the design intent that was then transferred to the construction team for implementation.
BIM facilitated in the delivery of the North Shore Hospital’s Elective Surgery Centre on time and to budget.
Creating a model in the early design stage improved workflows between teams, highlighted critical junctions and sped up the detailed design. It resulted in significant time savings, particularly at documentation stage. It is estimated that it saved several weeks in project time, compared with the usual process. BIM assisted collaboration between project team members, communication with the client, and co-ordination of services on the project which all contributed to identifying risks and jointly developing effective solutions. Communicating with BIM enabled the architects, Jasmax, to design spaces to better meet user needs and accelerated the sign-off process.
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Project duration:
2008 to 2013
BIM Uses:
Spatial programming – room data sheets
Design review
Design authoring
3D coordination
