Construction Documents in Revit - Modern Barn (Episode 04)

 

In Episode 04 of our modern barn series we start making construction documents in Revit...  Because, well... we HAVE to get this barn built one day! :)

Click here to view episode 4...

Missed the previous episodes?!  Check them out below:

Episode 01 - Design Diagrams in Revit:

Episode 02 - Schematic Design Modeling in Revit

Episode 03 - From Revit to Twinmotion

Is the "The End of CDs?" the End of Phases as Well?

Phil Bernstein, or "Uncle Phil" (as I like to refer to him on this blog), published an interesting article the other day questioning the future of construction documents (CDs).

Click here to read Phil's post...

This is a topic I love discussing.  For me, personally, it is fascinating to be part of the paradigm and to embrace it.  When I started working in the field 7 years ago the shift was just beginning.  It feels as if a shift has been occurring throughout my 7 years and I am curious to see what is made of it.  My generation has not had the luxury (or I would call it a non-luxury) of being introduced into the field at a time where the process is exactly the same for the next 20 years.  Could it be more beneficial to us to enter in a time of elasticity in the process than the generation before who have been doing things the exact same way since the 80's?  

I couldn't help but make comparisons to a project I am currently working on.  The firm I work for has "checklists" for each phase of the project.  This checklist was put into place years ago (at the beginning of the AutoCAD days or even earlier) and basically states the items which should be on the drawings to makes the set s "SD" or a "DD" set.  Well, thanks to Revit and some experienced users the "SD" printing of the project completes both the "SD" and "DD" checklist along with some items on the "CD" checklist.

Working on the model has allowed us to make more decisions earlier, bang out a serious amount of sheets, and interact with the CM and consultants at a traditional "SD" phase of the project.  We have yet to evolve into Phil's prediction of the sub-contractors involvement in such early stages but I can see where it will be beneficial.

This leads me to add to Phil's assertion of the possible end of Construction Documents to my own assertion of the possible end of the traditional "Schematic Design", Design Development", and "Construction Document" workflow.  I know, principles, partners, and managers will scream "HOW AND WHEN WILL WE INVOICE!?".

Well, maybe that needs to change too.  It is not like anyone ever pays those invoices anyways.  Perhaps the end of CD's and the end of the traditional workflow could spark the beginning of an accounts receivable that actually receives!?    

Revit Classroom Workflow - Step 4

Implementation/Documentation

At the completion of step three of our Revit Classroom Workflow segment you should have a clearly defined Revit model.  You have already explored many different material, structural, and mechanical options.  You've analyzed these options graphically and numerically.  Most importantly, you've extracted priceless information from your model and, in doing so, have become more intimate with your building/concept at a much deeper level than ever before.

The next step, implementation/documentation, will vary depending on the program requirements of your school.  Some programs may require a complete set of detailed construction documents, while others won't even require dimensions.  Conversely, in the professional world this step is crucial.  Revit excels during the construction document process.  Your model, by now, should be thought out and developed enough so that when you cut a section it is correct.  Not necessarily to the detail of sill plates and nuts and bolts (see this tutorial).  But a generic solid filled section should be created.  There are still days when I site back and marvel over the amount of sheets that I generate in such a short period of time during this step.

A great tip to keep in mind during this stage is utilizing some drafting views.  This will apply more for professional practice but is great to know as a student.  Drafting views have great advantaged when being used on typical details.  For example, handicap toilet details will rarely ever change.  Take the time to draft some beautiful typical details using wide lines for walls (keeping it generic so it can apply to many cases).  Simply import them (or add them to your Revit template).  Drag them on a sheet and call them out! (See this tutorial). 

I am not going to explain how to create construction documents and what is required.  That's for you to know and learn in school.  I will explain some of the advantages you will experience during the C.D. phase because you are using Revit:

• Very quickly create sheets and paper.
• Instantly create details and sections in an place or direction. (Who knows, your professor may ask you to cut a section on a 30 degree angle... easy!)
• Elevations are already created.  Simply dimension, note, and detail as needed. (if you have a building with angled masses Revit is priceless.)  Also, light shadows add great depth to your elevations.
• Instantly create and coordinate schedules.
• Coordination of all callouts is done for you.  No more printing and redlining over and over again because you consistently forget to change that one section bubble.
• If a spec book, or project manual, is required, E-Specs coordinates your model with your project manual.
• If a budget is set for the project material take-offs, automatic scheduling, and Cost-X will make your life much easier.
• If you must coordinate MEP, Structure, and Architecture, NavisWorks can be used for a variety of outcomes.  From collision detection to presentations.

These are only the main advantages I could think of when using Revit to create construction documents.  The proper usage of all of these programs and Revit will greatly help you in the classroom and in the work force.  The ability to create construction documents with such ease and speed, in my opinion, is changing the percentage of lump sum pay an architect will charge for that phase.  Leaving more time and money for design.

Stay tuned for the next step on our chart!