Building Information Modeling (BIM)

RTKL was an early adopter of Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology. We began using the AutoDesk Revit platform in late 2003 and have since adopted Revit Architecture, Revit Structural and Revit MEP as our corporate standard for design software. Direct benefits of BIM include consistency across drawings and schedules, accurate 3D visualization, and the ability for designers from various disciplines to work collaboratively in a 3D database.

Featured Projects
The Food and Drug Administration Headquarters
The FDA, responsible for the safety of U.S. food, drugs, medical devices and cosmetics, employed more than 5,000 people in 40 buildings at 18 locations in the Washington, DC, area. To consolidate these facilities and create a consistent culture, the FDA acquired a two million-SF campus for a workplace environment that creates community, bolsters workflow and enhances operations.
The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency
NGA is a Department of Defense support agency dedicated to providing timely, relevant, and accurate geospatial intelligence in support of national security. A new 2.4 million-SF headquarters, on track for a 2011 completion, will enable the agency to perform its critical functions in a state-of-the-art facility, designed to encourage technical, organizational and cultural transformations.
Joint Use Intelligence Analysis Facility
RTKL used BIM to develop the design for JUIAF at Rivanna Station, Charlottesville. Use of Revit allowed the design team to model multiple siting configuration alternative and space planning options. The 170,000-SF facility complements the other major building on the Rivanna Station campus, the National Ground Intelligence Center.
Defense Information Systems Agency
DISA is a 1,070,000-SF facility at Ft Meade, Maryland, comprising a group of buildings around a central courtyard, with a concourse connecting pedestrian movement between computer labs and the common amenity spaces. Throughout the design, BIM enabled seamless integration between architecture and MEP systems, including raised access flooring with under floor air delivery.
Gateway Student Residence, MICA
Bordering one of Baltimore’s main highways, The Gateway is an unconventional student residence that meets the challenges of its compact urban site, accommodates residential, studio, and community uses, and creates a fitting gateway to the art school’s campus. The project was designed using Revit and recently received an Honor Award from AIA Maryland.
Douglas R. Palladino AIA, Principal
“As buildings become increasingly complex in both size and scope, we realize it is sometimes difficult for clients to visualize how a space will look and feel by reading a program or studying a set of plans. BIM allows us to express our concepts in three dimensions, giving clients a more accurate depiction of the project’s progression while providing us with a platform for greater integration among disciplines throughout all phases of development.”
AutoDesk has recognized RTKL for our successful multidisciplinary collaboration within the entire Revit BIM platform as well as for achieving an advanced level of BIM practice, utilizing the Revit model for early informed design decision-making, energy analysis, and coordination with the construction manager and client. We continue to push the envelope and use BIM and other analysis programs such as AutoDesk Ecotect to make informed decision on design and building performance.