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Singapore BIM Guide for Consultants
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- Name
- Jane Sison
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Architects play a crucial role in the overall build quality of a project. Depending on who leads the digital delivery, architects often play a key role in coordinating the design, ensuring it integrates well with structural and MEP systems—digitally and on-site.
BIM, or Building Information Modeling, is a digital representation of the physical and functional aspects of a building. It goes beyond 2D drawings to include 3D geometry, materials, quantities, and performance data. For architects, this means more accurate design, better coordination, and smoother project execution.
BIM LOD for Architects
LOD, or Level of Development, defines how much detail a BIM model element should carry at different phases of the project. For architects, knowing when and how to incrementally develop LOD helps manage client expectations, reduce rework, and ensure timely delivery. A clear framework for BIM LOD can be found in our comprehensive BIM LOD guide.
It's tempting to model everything in high detail from the start. But early overdevelopment is often counterproductive—especially when designs are still evolving. In practice, low LOD models are often used for massing studies, regulatory submissions, and client approvals. Higher LOD development can be phased in later, or even passed on to downstream consultants and contractors.
The Benefits of BIM (for Architects)
1. Conceptual Design and Visualisation
BIM enables architects to explore massing, sun studies, and design options through 3D visualization. This makes it easier to communicate design intent to clients and gather feedback early. You can generate walkthroughs, perspectives, and even AR/VR experiences from the same model.
2. Regulatory Compliance
In Singapore, submissions to BCA, URA, and SCDF increasingly require BIM deliverables. Using BIM helps ensure models meet code requirements, and allows for early detection of non-compliance through rule-based checks and IFC+SG validation. A more in-depth coverage of the use of BIM for regulatory compliance can be found in our article which compares CORENET X to CORENET 2.
3. Design Coordination
There's no point in creating beautiful architecture that clashes with pipes or beams. BIM enables coordination with structural and MEP teams via shared 3D models. Architects can identify spatial conflicts early, protect design intent, and reduce RFIs during construction.
4. As-built Verification
After construction, a surveyor can scan the completed works and compare them against the original design. With BIM, architects can flag deviations and issue rectification instructions. A detailed “as-built to BIM” report also forms part of the digital handover.
5. Project Handover and Facility Management
Architects are often tasked with handing over documentation at project close-out. With BIM, this handover becomes more structured. A digital twin—linked to equipment specs, finishes, and warranties—can be passed to the client for ongoing maintenance and operations.
Offering BIM-ready deliverables for facility management not only adds value—it also makes your firm more attractive to asset owners and developers.
How to Implement BIM as an Architect
1. Develop a BIM Execution Plan (BEP)
A BEP outlines how BIM will be used on a project. It covers goals, team roles, software, LOD requirements, file naming conventions, and data exchange formats. Having a BEP reduces misunderstandings and keeps the team aligned.
If you're working on public projects or large-scale developments, a BEP is often required as part of your submission. It also sets the tone for your coordination workflows with consultants.
2. Choose the Right BIM Software
| Software | Description | BIM Workflow Support | Industry Adoption |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autodesk Revit | Industry standard, widely supported | Strong support for LOD, IFC export, and multi-disciplinary coordination. Integrated with Autodesk Construction Cloud. | Very high – used in most large-scale and government projects |
| Graphisoft ArchiCAD | Good for design-oriented workflows | Native BIM capabilities with strong IFC support. Especially suited for architectural modeling. | Moderate – preferred by design-heavy architecture firms |
| SketchUp + extensions | Useful for conceptual modelling | Basic BIM support through plugins (e.g., IFC export, extensions like Sefaira). Not a full BIM tool out of the box. | Widespread for early design stages, less common for full BIM |
When choosing, consider interoperability (IFC export), local support, and training resources.
Beyond modeling tools, architects also need a BIM CDE (Common Data Environment). A good CDE supports ISO 19650 workflows, version control, access tracking, and federated model coordination.
Popular options include Autodesk Construction Cloud, BIMcollab, Trimble Connect, and ProjectWise. These tools allow for virtual coordination, clash detection, and shared access to models and documents.
3. Train Your Team
Most architectural teams are familiar with AutoCAD, but BIM introduces new concepts like parametric modeling, shared coordinates, IFC schemas, and LOD definitions. Training is essential—not just on the software, but also on workflows, naming conventions, and collaboration practices.
Expect an initial learning curve. But once the team is comfortable, productivity and project control tend to increase significantly. Working with BIM training providers can be a useful way to get your team started on BIM implementation.
Getting Started with BIM
Implementing BIM takes time and resources, which is why some architects choose to partner with BIM consultants instead of building the capability in-house right away.
That’s where we come in. Bimeco offers on-demand BIM services tailored for architects—from model development to BEP writing, regulatory submissions, and even facility management handover packages.
If you're exploring BIM adoption or want to outsource part of your BIM scope, we’re happy to help. Reach out to us here or request a quote via our BIM Cost Calculator.