How One Architect Used a GPRS 3D BIM Model to Plan Retail Renovations

How One Architect Used a GPRS 3D BIM Model to Plan Retail Renovations

GPRS 3D laser scanned two retail spaces located at Two Bryant Park in Manhattan to develop a 3D BIM model so that IA Interior Architects could plan property renovations and revitalize the space. This mid-rise building in New York has undergone many renovations since its construction as an E-shaped six-story steel-framed masonry building in 1906. IA Interior Architects is repurposing the existing space for two new tenants. There is 14,000-square-foot of retail space in total at the property, which is being marketed by JLL and remains un-leased.

Founded in 1984, IA Interior Architects is a global architecture firm focused exclusively on building interiors. The firm provides strategic planning, interior architecture, and design services for corporations, businesses, and institutions.

They help clients make dynamic use of existing space with adaptive reuse, to reflect their brand, improve efficiency and productivity, increase employee satisfaction, and support sustainability.

To begin renovation design planning, the firm required digital as-built conditions of the two retail spaces (5,000 SF) and the basement below containing MEP systems (5,000 SF), approximately 10,000 sq ft in total. Accurate documentation was essential for assessing the current state of the building, information that was crucial for IA Interior Architects to plan renovations for this adaptive reuse project.

Two Bryant Park in Manhattan New York
GPRS 3D laser scanned two retail spaces at Two Bryant Park in Manhattan to develop a 3D BIM model for IA Interior Architects to plan property renovations.

3D Laser Scanning Captures As-Builts

GPRS 3D laser scanning services captured detailed as-built documentation of the existing space. The interior had been demolished, so GPRS collected precise data of the exposed columns and beams, floor, walls, windows, doors, ceilings, stairs, roof, piping, conduit, ducts, equipment footprints, electrical panels, and curtain wall.

3D laser scanners use cutting-edge LiDAR (light detection and ranging) technology to capture millions of three-dimensional data points of a space. Each data point is converted into a pixel with an XYZ coordinate, and processed into a point cloud, creating an accurate 3D as-built data set of the site. The technology delivers highly accurate digital layouts and dimensions for architects with 2-4 mm accuracy.

3D BIM Model & 2D Floor Contours Delivered for Design Planning

Once the site was laser scanned, the GPRS Mapping & Modeling Team created a geometrically accurate 3D building information model (BIM) model of the site. IA Interior Architects requested a standard detail 3D BIM model of the building core and shell, exposed structural features, and MEP infrastructure, including piping, and ductwork.

GPRS also delivered 2D floor contours – 2-dimensional drawings of the space from a bird’s eye view – so the architectural firm has precise room details and measurements for design planning.

IA Interior Architects utilized the 3D model and 2D CAD drawing to integrate new tenant designs and preserve the key historical and architectural elements of the space. The digital twins can be used to help the architects incorporate architectural, structural and MEP modifications into the built environment.  

GPRS 3D BIM Model Retail Space
IA Interior Architects utilized the 3D model and 2D CAD drawing to integrate new tenant designs and preserve the key historical and architectural elements of the space.

Adaptive Reuse in Architecture

The firm practices adaptive reuse techniques to integrate innovative architectural designs and create new functions for the old space. Adaptive reuse preserves historical features and reduces the need for new construction materials.

According to IA Interior Architects’ website, “Advancements in technology have become transformative in architecture and branded environment design. The future of architectural design lies at the intersection of technology and user experience.”

And, GPRS delivers the technology to create interactive architectural designs, allowing tenants to visualize site layout and user experiences in their retail stores.

LEED Certified Architect

IA Interior Architects has a team of LEED Accredited Professionals (LEED AP), demonstrating advanced knowledge of implementing green building practices and the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) rating system.

A LEED Accredited Professional can utilize 3D laser scanning technology in various ways to support and enhance the LEED certification process for buildings. 3D scanning provides precise measurements that help in accurate material quantification, reduce excess ordering, and improve waste management practices. 3D BIM models can help LEED APs to simulate different energy-saving measures, such as improved insulation, efficient HVAC systems, and lighting strategies, ensuring the building meets energy performance criteria.

3D BIM model for architect
IA Interior Architects requested a 3D BIM model of the building core and shell, exposed structural features, and MEP infrastructure, including piping, and ductwork.

Why Choose GPRS? The GPRS Difference.

Accurate data helps architects plan for renovations, make informed decisions, optimize building layout, and implement green building practices to deliver a great retail user experience.

GPRS 3D laser scanning services provide 2-4mm accurate existing conditions site documentation for efficient planning, design, and construction.

GPRS’ elite team of Project Managers efficiently 3D laser scans the exterior and interior of each site with professional-grade Leica laser scanners, capturing the exact layout, dimensions, and locations of your specific project requirements, such as architectural, structural, and MEP features, walls, windows, doors, stairs, roof, railings, exposed columns, beams, equipment, piping, ducts, and more.

Our Mapping & Modeling Team registers and processes the point cloud, removing noise and setting the coordinate system to provide the most precise measurements. Data is then compiled into custom 2D CAD drawings and 3D BIM models and delivered via SiteMap®. SiteMap® is a free cloud-based software that delivers point cloud data, 2D CAD drawings and 3D BIM models, all in one platform.

What can we help you visualize?

3D BIM Model MEP Systems
3D laser scan data can be used to create detailed 3D BIM models of MEP building systems, including ductwork, piping, conduit, and electrical systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the theory of adaptive reuse?

Adaptive reuse in architecture is a sustainable design strategy that involves repurposing existing buildings for new functions, while retaining their historical, cultural, or architectural significance. This strategy promotes the conservation of resources, reduction of waste, and preservation of cultural heritage.

How Do You Become a LEED Accredited Professional?

To become a LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP), you must pass a 100-question exam administered by Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI). The exam covers topics such as green building, a specific LEED rating system, and the certification process.

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