TU Dublin Academic
Hub & Library
CLIENT
Stone Systems Limited
START DATE
August 2023
END DATE
December 2024
THE PROJECT
A landmark campus building demands landmark precision.
The Academic Hub & Library at TU Dublin's Grangegorman campus is one of the most ambitious higher-education projects in Ireland in recent years, a finalist in the Irish Building & Design Awards 2026 in the Digital / BIM Initiative of the Year category.
Frescon was engaged by Stone Systems Limited to deliver the BIM model for the exterior stone façade across two buildings: AHLN and AHLS, both with highly irregular, non-orthogonal layouts that made conventional modeling approaches impractical.
Our task: audit the existing model, remodel what was unusable, complete all remaining façade elements, implement full NBS Uniclass classification, resolve all clashes, and deliver weekly BIM coordination uploads - on time, every time.
9,300
m² project area
19,709
modeled elements total
LOD 400
model detail level
0
clashes at delivery
CHALLENGES
Nothing about this project was straightforward.
Between the scale of the model, the version mismatch, and the inherited complexity - the team faced a set of compounding technical challenges from day one.
High LOD + LOI Requirements
Every element required full NBS Uniclass data and high LOD - no shortcuts on quality while managing enormous quantity.
Bloated Inherited Model
Each connector family weighed ~5 MB. With hundreds of connectors, this made the model near-unusable for coordination.
Massive Scope
Nearly 20,000 parametric stone panel and secondary steel elements across two buildings with complex irregular geometry.
Clash with Structural Change
An unplanned shift in a structural element created direct clashes with designed façade components - discovered mid-project.
SOLUTIONS
Problems solved. Not avoided.
The project’s main challenges arose from integrating large, complex point clouds for each school and effectively implementing BIM methodologies. Ensuring seamless coordination among stakeholders required strategic communication and structured management.
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CASE STUDY
What was the impact
for the client?
We successfully found a solution for properly aligning the point cloud model, ensuring accuracy in the final design. The development of room summaries, highlighting differences, accelerated the process of incorporating changes into the MEP model.
Additionally, the entire BIM documentation was delivered in full compliance with ISO 19650 standards, including as-built models for the four schools covered by the project. This comprehensive and efficient approach saved time and ensured high-quality, standardized deliverables for the client.
CASE STUDY
What were the solutions?
To effectively address the project challenges, we implemented a structured and collaborative approach:
Regular Coordination Meetings
Weekly or bi-weekly meetings were held to resolve outstanding issues, clashes, queries, and other points of concern, ensuring smooth project progression and alignment across disciplines.
Comprehensive Clash Detection and MEP Model Review
Systematic clash detection was conducted to refine the MEP model, particularly in the as-built stage. This included reviewing and adjusting the placement of MVHR units, radiators, and piping to ensure seamless integration with the architectural model.
As-Built Documentation and Discrepancy Analysis
Photographic documentation of the as-built condition was compiled, and detailed discrepancy reports were developed to highlight variations between the design intent and actual construction. This process significantly accelerated the finalization of the MEP as-built model, improving accuracy and efficiency.
CASE STUDY
Key learnings
To effectively address the project challenges, we implemented a structured and collaborative approach:
Accurate Data is Critical
Point cloud data provided a precise foundation for modeling, but thorough validation was necessary to ensure its reliability and usability.
Effective Communication is Essential
Regular coordination meetings played a crucial role in managing changes, addressing site conditions, and maintaining alignment across all stakeholders.
Design Flexibility with BIM
The adaptability of BIM allowed for efficient resolution of unexpected challenges, enabling quick adjustments without compromising project timelines.
Client Involvement Improves Outcomes
Engaging the client early in the process facilitated better decision-making, but effectively managing expectations was crucial to maintaining project scope and feasibility.
CASE STUDY
Key achievements
01
Enhanced Precision and Prefabrication
Digital modeling enabled precise coordination, ensuring that prefabrication could be fully leveraged, improving overall efficiency and minimizing on-site adjustments.
02
Advanced Clash Detection and Real-Time Adjustments
BIM facilitated detailed clash detection, allowing for real-time modifications, which helped eliminate errors and prevent costly delays.
03
Streamlined Workflow and Collaboration
By integrating design and construction processes, we enhanced team collaboration and optimized the project workflow, ensuring a smoother execution.
LOCATION
TU Dublin Academic Hub & Library
Grangegorman, Dublin
TEAM
Szymon Zbrojewski
Architectural BIM Lead
Katarzyna Lipka-Sidor
BIM Specialist
Marta Stępniak
BIM Modeller
Marta Raczyńska
BIM Modeller
GENERAL
Overwiev