Abstract
BIM enhances data integration and precision in architectural workflows but can constrain creative freedom. This tension challenges architects seeking to balance BIM’s technical benefits with human-centered, innovative design.
The podcast explores hybrid approaches that integrate BIM with flexible workflows to foster creativity and meaningful spatial experiences. By examining real-world applications, it aims to identify strategies that leverage BIM’s efficiency while promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and human-centered innovation.
Listen to the podcast here
Guest
Kenn Clausen, Associate, Head of Digital Practice, and architect at 3XN/GXN in Copenhagen
Kenn Clausen is an experienced architect and BIM specialist working at 3XN/GXN as Head of Digital Practice, recognized for his innovative integration of technology with creative design processes. With a strong background in architecture, Kenn has pioneered advanced BIM workflows that enhance collaboration and efficiency. His work emphasizes the use of cutting-edge tools to foster human-centered and innovative spatial experiences, demonstrating the potential of hybrid approaches in architectural practice.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:24 Meet Ken Clausen
01:56 Ken’s Journey and Role at 3XN/GXN
05:09 Innovative Workflows & Team Dynamics
08:22 Challenges & Insights in Architectural Design
11:33 The Importance of Interdisciplinary Collaboration
13:25 Technological Tools and Methodologies
18:03 Future of BIM & Digital Design
24:16 Adapting to New Tools and Techniques
29:09 The Catching Up Game in BIM
29:33 Impact of BIM on Building Aesthetics
29:59 Designing the New Sydney Fish Market
32:12 Evolution of Design Tools
32:40 Balancing Aesthetics and Practicality
37:46 Olympic House: A Case Study
39:41 Integrating New Technologies in Design
43:15 The Future of AI in Architecture
55:35 Conclusion
Questions
Q1 Please, tell us a little bit about yourself and how you define BIM?
Q2 How did you first get involved with Building Information Modeling (BIM) in your architectural practice? Is it at 3XN or at UNStudio where you started architecture?
Q3 How would you define “hybrid approaches” in the context of integrating BIM with creative workflows?
Q4 Have you experienced feeling restricted in your creative freedom when using BIM? If so, could you elaborate on a specific project where this limitation was evident? With your experience submitting to competitions, how is the ‘restriction’ different?
Q5 How does BIM impact interdisciplinary collaboration within your projects? Does it enhance or constrain the design dialogue between architects, engineers, and other stakeholders?
Q6 Do you think the standardization of BIM workflows influences architectural aesthetics? How do you ensure originality in design despite these constraints?
Q7 Can you provide examples of projects where BIM unexpectedly fostered creativity rather than limiting it? As an example, do you think Sydney Fish Market’s workflows could be re-used to another project?
Q8 We hear a lot about open-source softwares. Because architecture practices tend to create & develop similar workflows in the end, what do you think about open source or shared workflows?
Q9 Do you see AI as a potential bridge between BIM’s data-driven efficiency and the need for more qualitative, human-centered design?
Q10 Looking ahead, what innovations or advancements in BIM do you think will help architects reclaim or enhance creative freedom in the coming years?
Conclusion
Speaking with a professional in the computational BIM industry was a fascinating insight and led to some very philosophical conclusions. Our guest talked about the inclusion of a diverse group of people to work on modern projects, especially as the dynamic nature of spaces leads design to be far more complicated than it has been before. Due to this workflow, it is sometimes more important to develop an empathetic workflow rather than focus too much on the kind of technological tools being used. There will always be new ways to address problems in collaborative areas, but it is essential that each person is heard and professionals want to design a building more than they want to craft the perfect workflow.
Cover image sourced from https://3xn.com/project/sydney-fish-market
