On the success story of the BIM model and the Plodine Tower

The role and responsibilities of a BIM Manager
As the BIM Manager, I was responsible for the digital coordination and integration of all participating disciplines. One key focus was the incorporation of the existing buildings and all specific information into the model – as the centerpiece of the reconstruction.
My main objective was to ensure that all planning and processes were depicted and coordinated in the BIM model. This included checking the model quality, safeguarding the data consistency and precision, and supporting communication between the different teams.

BIM also played a central role in the creation of 3D visualizations. The BIM model enabled us to prepare precise and realistic images of both the interiors and the exteriors, as well as of the facade, which was very important to the client. These visualizations helped the client to get a clear picture of the end result and made it easier for decisions to be taken. In addition to this, the visualizations created a shared visual basis that facilitated better communication with all project participants.

The advantages of BIM
The many advantages of BIM become particularly clear in the planning of a high-rise building. These are exemplified by BIM’s capacity to digitally capture and analyze existing buildings (point clouds and the model of the existing building), which helped us here in the production of accurate plans. BIM also enabled us to identify and react appropriately to potential problems at an early date. And it smoothed coordination between the various trades and ensured efficient design and execution.

BIM greatly simplified our cooperation with the client. The visualizations and the ability to directly demonstrate changes within the model enabled us to implement requirements faster and more precisely. One example of this was the adaptation of the interior design: By seeing their suggestions being realized in real time, it was far easier for the client to take decisions. In addition to this, BIM allowed us to better document and understand changes. This also strengthened transparency throughout the process.

Lessons for the future
One of the key lessons was the enormous importance of cooperation and communication between all participants. BIM hugely simplifies this process, but it also demands an appropriate organization and structure. In future projects, I will be careful to ensure that all disciplines are involved as early as possible and provide regular feedback about the model. I have also learnt that it is important to remain flexible when using BIM because this enables us to react to unforeseen challenges.

I believe that the future of BIM technology will bring even closer integration and automation. Technologies such as AI and machine learning can help us to optimize planning processes even further and predict potential problems. In the case of extraordinary projects like the Plodine Tower it will become increasingly important to use BIM models not only as planning tools but also central communication and decision-making platforms. The ongoing development of virtual and augmented reality could further support these processes. Given that buildings last far beyond their planning processes, BIM technology will hopefully also become useful throughout their lifecycles.

The Plodine Tower today
When I see the Plodine Tower today, I’m proud of all that we achieved as a team. It is impressive how we transformed an old ruin into a modern landmark. The project shows what is possible when innovative technologies are used logically. The tower also reminds me of the importance of cooperation and communication – without the commitment of all participants, this outcome would not have been possible. And, at the end of the day, the Iconic Award that we received in August 2024 for the building demonstrates that we have created an icon for the City of Rijeka.