DOORS, WINDOWS & FITTINGS
BIM-READY HARDWARE: THE NEXT LEAP IN CONSTRUCTION
As a digital transformation continues to sweep across the industry, Daniel May of Consort Architectural Hardware examines the growing demand for Building Information Modelling( BIM) and how its use is influencing modern design projects.
The future of construction is digital. What was once considered a gradual shift toward greater information management has now become a basic requirement for so many. From early-stage design through to compliance, maintenance and product lifecycle management, digital product data is no longer considered added-value- it is mandatory.
Since 2016, UK central government clients have required collaborative digital information management on centrally procured projects, commonly known as‘ BIM Level 2’. Today, these requirements are specified through the UK BIM Framework and BS EN ISO 19650 standards, setting a clear expectation that construction partners must provide accurate, structured and accessible digital information across their products.
With this in mind, conscious manufacturers throughout the supply chain are enhancing their BIM capabilities, as they look to support architects, specifiers and contractors with detailed product information. Architectural hardware- traditionally overlooked in digital planning- is rapidly entering the spotlight too, with 3D models, certification and performance data now offered across a growing library of products. But how is this movement to enhanced digital resources impacting projects?
OPTIONAL TO OPERATIONALLY CLINICAL
Only a decade ago, building specifications relied heavily on paper resources, where professionals
were limited to product brochures, PDF catalogues and basic CAD line drawings. Today, the sector is converging around fully integrated digital workflows, with teams relying on platforms such as Revit and NBS as a way of connecting design, specification, compliance and facilities management.
Digital Product Passports( DPP), soon to be mainstream and mandated by the EU, will only accelerate this trend. Though, it’ s important to recognise this evolution isn’ t driven by convenience alone. In fact, BIM product data now plays a central role in meeting:
• UK Government mandates for digital construction and the‘ Golden Thread of Information’
• Fire safety regulations, which increasingly require accurate, up-to-date, verifiable data
• Sustainability reporting, where Environmental Product Declarations( EPDs) and lifecycle data must be accessible at the design stage
Consequently, if a product can’ t be conceptualised accurately in a digital model, it risks being excluded from a project’ s specifications entirely.
BIM IN ARCHITECTURAL HARDWARE
For some, door hardware may seem like a minor component in the grand scheme of building design and as a result, it is often overlooked as a small
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