Embracing Building Information Management ( BIM ), the process of designing , constructing and operating a building with the use of electronic object-orientated information , is vital for retrofitting older buildings sustainably . We speak to Diarmuid Murphy , Director of Property , Murphy Geospatial , on how BIM enables data-driven decision-making , energy efficiency improvements and lays the foundation for smart buildings .

IM extends beyond the construction phase and encompasses the operation and management of buildings .

By utilising the data available , building owners , governments , municipalities and property managers can make informed decisions throughout the building ’ s lifecycle . This data-driven approach enables asset owners to derive valuable information from the digital model , even after the completion of the construction process .

BIM has been widely used in the construction industry for new assets , but as we move towards a more sustainable future , our focus is rightly shifting to our ageing skylines . BIM is coming into its own and demonstrating its value in the process of retrofitting older structures for energy efficiency , retrofitting and reuse .

This shift in attention towards the reuse of existing buildings is essential as focussing on new buildings is unsustainable . We need to make the best use of the buildings we have and the embodied carbon and finite resources they hold . The UK Green Building Council predict that 80 % of buildings that will be occupied in 2050 already exist today , so making efforts to decarbonise our existing building stock makes sense .

The flexibility and detailed information provided by BIM make it an indispensable tool for those responsible for enhancing the sustainability , functionality and resilience of existing structures .

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