Different graphical representations of an architectural project with tool in a BIM software

How to obtain different graphical representations of an architectural project with the 'zones' tool in a BIM software

Managing the multiple aspects present in an architectural project has always been a complex issue. With the introduction of BIM software in building design processes, we can now create a unique model that incorporates all disciplines, including structural enginnering, technical installations, etc.

Among the many features that we can have, when using this kind of technology, is the ability to divide the project into 'zones'.

What are 'zones'?

Zones allow us to organize and classify the project into different levels.
Using levels appropriately, and according to our needs, enables the software to produce extremely detailed charts, tables and diagrams that can help underline specific design aspects in a very professional manner.

A feature that can prove to be very useful, for example, when presenting our project to our client, highlighting data with graphical representations and tables, such as room sizes or intended use for the various household units.

Let's take a look at this example and how we can set up zones using our BIM software.

How do you set up zones with a BIM software

The Zones feature, within the Edificius local menu, is easily accessible under the 'BUILDING Info' node, relating to the project's General Information section.
With the zones feature we can set 3 different levels, that serve to break down and detail our work.
These could be, for example, the various building units that form the project (see figure below);

Zones: classification by building unit

but also functional areas such as the living areas, sleeping areas, bathrooms, etc. in which the floor plan is divided;
it could even be the places where the apartment is arranged, such as the living room, kitchen, bedroom, etc. (see figure below);

Zones: classification by environment

or even the intended use for each environment composing the various building unit areas.
These classifications, when used in combination with our drawing model representations and appropriate data filters, allow us to create detailed reports for easy access to our zone data organisation.

Why use zones to classify building unit areas

Thanks to this classification system and the data filtering, we can easily retrieve information, diagrams and summary tables too.
It's clear that on the basis of what we need, we can produce floor plans with info-graphics and various other useful representations, each with a different view of the model within the same housing unit showing where the residential areas are and relating surface data.