Information needs for progressive BIM methodology supporting the holistic energy renovation of office buildings

Abstract

The paper presents digital methodology that can gradually and efficiently streamline the energy renovation of office buildings. Building Information Modelling (BIM) and energy simulations are widely used to facilitate informed decision-making. Significant data collections may be accrued that do not meet the information needs of energy renovation design, performance evaluation, (re)construction and operations. Ineffective managed information often leads to sub-standard project deliverables, re-work, errors, budget deficits, and delays. The progressive BIM methodology proposed suggests specifying adequate information to match the purpose of an evolving renovation design process - with emphasis on energy performance - while addressing aspects of multiple sustainability. This approach is based on firm methodological principles and validated on the actual refurbishment of office buildings. Results show that progressive BIM methodology can improve design, more accurately predict energy consumption, reduce investment costs, prevent design and planning errors, and prevent construction delays. This study is a valuable contribution to renovation design research and development, especially to practitioners (architects and engineers) in aligning client requirements and design and project outcomes, with clear profiling of the information requirements for different levels of design services in renovations.