Inside our Building Awards 2022 Digital Excellence Finalist submission

Words by BSBG Media Team, Friday 11 November 2022

Brewer Smith Brewer Group (BSBG) was announced as a finalist at the Building Awards 2022 in the Digital Excellence category for an initiative implemented on the Silk District Phase 2 project in London. In this article, we provide insight into how and why this approach to advanced detailing and 4D sequencing helped to elevate the project, and provided the basis of the award entry.

Demonstrating digital excellence through advanced detailing and 4D sequencing

In terms of BIM, 4D refers to time, and is usually applied to high level site logistics and construction phasing. BSBG’s initiative marks a new approach to 4D detailing; communicating the time and logistics associated with the construction of details and the placement of all specified materials to create the finished product.

A 2D detail adequately explains the principles involved in ensuring a building is technically sound and in line with design intent, however issues can arise with buildability as projects move to Stage 5 Construction. To create clarity, BSBG implemented 4D detailing in a unique way; using the 2D detail as the basis and constructing it within a virtual environment - breaking down all layers, structures and finishes, and explicitly demonstrating the way in which the detailing intends the components to fit together. An animated GIF presents the step-by-step process involved in building the detail.

The parapet detail (shown below) encompasses a wide variety of NBS specified products, from the structure through to slip ties and membranes. Tiles are sized correctly and modelled on pedestals, and the pedestals are coordinated to ensure no clashes with MEP, services and rainwater outlets. In this instance the balustrade is a bespoke BSBG design, with the 4D sequencing demonstrating how it will be fixed to the parapet and subsequently installed.

This all-encompassing modelling, which pushes the boundaries of Revit software, provided new levels of clarity for each contractor involved in the build. The detail within these visualisations validates the process of construction, and confirms for all project stakeholders that the proposed design works, and is buildable.

Reducing risk and realising design intent

By explaining the method of construction and the order in which it should be undertaken, 4D sequencing reduces risk exposure for the client. In particular it eliminates the loss of time potential for any redesign needed during construction, and also any dilution of the original concept, which typically follows.

It is the responsibility of the Designer/Lead Consultant to ensure the multiple disciplines involved in project delivery seamlessly integrate to achieve the design intent. Additionally, they must be able to justify that the detailed information can be built. 4D sequencing using 3D visualisations plays a pivotal role in providing that knowledge with unique clarity, leaving no room for misinterpretation.

Mark Vaughan, Associate & Technical Operations Manager, led the initiative for BSBG. He explained that the focus was not only on improving accuracy from a construction perspective, but also on the architect producing the technical detailing. He said: “Although BIM has introduced great efficiencies, it has also introduced a reliance on the software rather than the technical input required. From someone who started in CAD, when considering 2D detailing, often the starting point would be to consider the 3D first. Typically, in those days the best way to do this would be to sketch an isometric version of the detail with consideration of sequence. Therefore, the detailing process starts with building materials rather than drawing.

“It’s a pragmatic approach, preferable to the academic placing of lines on a sheet. A detail can be academically sound, but if it is not possible to construct, the technical quality of the detail will suffer during the construction stage. Our initiative aims to utilise the software to revive this level of consideration from the detailer at the design stage with more accurate methods than available previously. With the introduction of 'The Golden Thread' accelerating the demand for transparency and assurance in construction, we’re seeing more clients willing to invest in this type of offering.”

A new benchmark

Commenting on the successful rollout of the 4D sequencing detail on an active project, BSBG London Head of Studio Shaham Ahmed said: “This initiative sets a new benchmark for the way we approach construction by facilitating a true comprehension of each building element, and the way in which the components fit together. We are delighted with the recognition we have received from the successful implementation of this initiative, particularly from our client, Mount Anvil. To subsequently be shortlisted alongside some of our esteemed colleagues as one of the Digital Excellence finalists at the Building Awards 2022 is testament to our commitment as a firm in continually trying to innovate, and find new technical solutions for the benefit of our projects and clients.”