- Docente: Alekos Diacodimitri
- Credits: 4
- SSD: ICAR/17
- Language: Italian
- Moduli: Alekos Diacodimitri (Modulo 1) Alekos Diacodimitri (Modulo 2)
- Teaching Mode: Traditional lectures (Modulo 1) Traditional lectures (Modulo 2)
- Campus: Bologna
- Corso: Second cycle degree programme (LM) in Building Engineering -Architecture (cod. 6728)
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from Sep 22, 2025 to Oct 27, 2025
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from Sep 16, 2025 to Nov 03, 2025
Learning outcomes
At the end of the course, the student will acquire the knowledge to analyze, break down, and represent the complexity and articulation of an architectural project using digital representation methods. The student will be able to represent the project at different scales and with different representation techniques. With the acquired knowledge, the student will be able to use drawing as a graphic language aimed at studying, analyzing, presenting, and narrating the ideation and execution process of the architectural project. They will also be able to compose boards, documents, and models according to defined criteria.
Course contents
The course aims to provide a foundational understanding of Building Information Modeling (BIM), fostering a critical comprehension of its fundamental aspects and their implications in architectural design, construction solutions development, and site management.
Through a structured methodological approach, students will develop design skills, problem-solving abilities, and critical analysis in the application of BIM technology.
Lectures will introduce BIM by combining theoretical and practical insights into project modeling techniques and information management. By integrating theoretical and operational tools, students will gain expertise in managing the BIM process, understanding its role as a coordination and communication tool within architectural design.
Students will progressively develop a fully informed digital building model. Particular attention will be given to the principles of parametric modeling, with the objective of generating a digital model from which traditional technical drawings, such as plans, elevations, sections, 3D views, and schedules, can be derived.
The topics covered will include:
Introduction to theoretical aspects of BIM and its evolution within the construction industry; libraries and templates; regulations and standards for BIM adoption. Modeling of structural elements and building envelope: columns and beams, walls, floors, flat and pitched roofs, doors, and windows. Creation and modification of construction elements; façade systems and curtain walls; vertical connections. Modeling of interior spaces: partitioning and subdivision of spaces, vertical circulation elements, stairs, ramps, elevators, and shafts. Customization of families, site functionalities, and analysis, mass modeling for free-form shapes. Development of technical drawings and 3D views derived from the model.
Readings/Bibliography
Kymmel, W., (2008). Building information modeling: planning and managing construction projects with 4D CAD and simulations. New York: Mc Graw Hill.
Eastman, C., Teicholz, P., Sacks, R., & Liston, K., (2008). BIM Handbook: A Guide to Building Information Modeling for Owners, Managers, Designers, Engineers and Contractors. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley and Sons.
Aubin, P. F., (2013). Renaissance Revit. Creating classical architecture with modern software. Oak Lawn, IL: G3B Press.
Race, S., (2013). BIM demystified: an architect’s guide to Building Information Modelling/Management (BIM), 2nd edition. ed. Riba Publishing, London.
Docci, M., Gaiani, M., Maestri, D., (2021). Scienza del Disegno. CittàStudi Editore.
Teaching methods
The course will involve the use of Autodesk Revit, a BIM software available to students in an educational version by registering with their university credentials on the Autodesk Education Community website at http://students.autodesk.com/.
As this is a basics course, no prior experience with BIM software is required. However, students should have a solid foundation in architectural drawing, representation methods and techniques, and CAD software, as well as an independent design capability to successfully develop the final course project.
Assessment methods
The final exam will serve as a demonstration of students’ ability to correctly handle a BIM process
Teaching tools
Throughout the course, various educational resources will be made available to students to facilitate learning and deepen their understanding of the topics covered. These will include PDF files with lecture content, modeling support files, templates, and libraries for the BIM software used in the course. Additionally, students will receive informational materials to assist in preparing for the final exam, as well as links to external resources for further study. All materials will be accessible through the university's Virtuale platform.
Office hours
See the website of Alekos Diacodimitri