Design
studio Buttress is using 3D building models from Bluesky to create interactive
walkthroughs and Virtual Reality (VR) presentations as part of its Building
Information Modelling (BIM) workflow.
Created
from the most up-to-date and accurate aerial photography, the models are used
to provide context, giving stakeholders the opportunity to explore a design in
its real-world location using QR codes or VR headsets.
Buttress
has used the Bluesky models on numerous projects including a pioneering
redesign of the Kings Gate at Caernarfon Castle and master planning for the
Ancoats area of Manchester.
“We
use Bluesky models to accurately assess the impact our proposals have on key
views,” commented Paul Thornborough, BIM Manager at Buttress. “This may be the
effect a proposal has on the view of an historic building from across a valley
or how a project relates to its immediate neighbours. The idea of using
geographically accurate data is that anyone viewing our projects can
immediately realise the true scale of the proposal and appreciate it within its
real-world context.”
Created
from the latest aerial photography Bluesky models provide a geographically
accurate and up-to-date 3D representation of both the underlying terrain and
existing properties and infrastructure. Buttress imports the data into its
Revit BIM software where it sits alongside architectural drawings or design
strategies. Following a degree of post processing, to create realistic and
relatable representations, the data is then exported to Buttress’s
visualisation software to further enhance this realism. The resulting
presentations are then shared and accessed by any interested party via mobile
devices, using scannable QR codes, or immersible VR experiences.
Photogrammetrically
derived from stereoscopic aerial photography, the models are fully rendered and
are provided as either wireframe or block models in a format suitable for use
in both CAD and GIS software. The Bluesky data is supplied complete with a
Digital Terrain Model (DTM) and can be created to different levels of detail
(LOD). Additional features, such as transport infrastructure or environmental
features can also be added.
“I
have always been impressed with the professionalism we receive from Bluesky;
from the initial quote all the way through to receiving data as ordered,”
concluded Thornborough. “All special requests are accommodated, especially
where additional detail is required within the context model.”
Buttress
is leading design studio based in Manchester. Providing architecture, urban
design, interiors and conservation design services Buttress believes that
architecture is as much about people and buildings, and that buildings should
be shaped by their surroundings, their role and the people that will use them.
