Reorganisation and Reconstruction of a Dermatology

The Saarland University Medical Center intends to convert the basement floor of a 15-story in-patient building and an attached three-story high out-patient unit connected to a dermatology clinic. In addition, existing rooms with an overall floor space of approximately 570m² has to be redeveloped whilst keeping its previous function in tact. The reconstruction goes hand in hand with clearing of the entire floor and basic repairs of the existing MEP installations as well as load-bearing components. Apart from the existing courtyard located in the middle of the out-patient unit, all windows and facades have already been renovated previously. In addition to the existing structure, a new building could also be placed in front of the existing out-patient unit in order to create additional floor space for research as well as additional treatment and surgery rooms for the new dermatology.

The goal was to redevelop a new ground floor by using Revit Architecture to create a virtual information model. The motivation to use Revit Architecture on this project was in respect to recent developments in the construction industry and the intention to evaluate the traditional planning process and working method. This allows us to improve this process by implementing new software solutions and technologies. Due to the existing building structure, each modelling component has been linked to a ‘creation phase’ and ‘demolition phase’ property (Revit Phases). Also design options within the 3D model have been used to adapt to changes in project scope, review alternative designs or highlight variations to a client (Revit Options) having a positive influence on decision making.

Additionally, all staff members have been trained at the beginning of the project followed by an individual further training if required during the preliminary and design phase. Active support has also been established to find individual solutions in real time. Overall a significant improvement in productivity, efficiency and quality of planning by using Revit Architecture has been achieved while working on this project. Furthermore, this first step towards the implementation of BIM technology has already led to a positive restructuring within the traditional planning process.