New York Historical Society

Case Study: New York Historical Society

How is it possible to 3D laser scan and analyze an entire building in a short amount of time? We were able to do so by working closely with an owner's representatives to prioritize elements of the 3D BIM model that they could use immediately while the remainder of the 3D BIM model was being constructed.

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How Did This Project Begin?

The New York Historical Society initially wanted to renovate the building's back wing. For high-profile projects like this one, things often start with an owner's representative contacting us. In this instance, we began our endeavor by collaborating with Krista Kennedy, the owner's representative, and with Robert A. M. Stern Architects.

We had the opportunity to work directly with the architects to 3D laser scan the building and ensure they had all the information they needed. They summoned us so we were able to “get them out of a jam.” On behalf of the owner, Krista helped to coordinate the architect and other subcontractors to get the job done right. As a result, Krista requested that we come in, provide 3D laser scanning services, and present the team with all of their building's documents. We had the privilege of being chosen to work on such a fantastic project.

We were able to reproduce some of the Society's displays by 3D laser scanning in color. We also used a grayscale approach for the back-of-house sections because they did not require as much depth. Finally, we were able to keep the building in occupancy without any interruptions.

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The Swarm Technique

Holly Vaillancourt, Operations Director of Existing Conditions, was in charge of keeping the team 3D laser scanning at all times. She worked closely with Krista at the outset of the project to ensure everyone was on board. Instead of sending in just one 3D laser scanning surveyor who would take three weeks to scan the building, Existing Conditions adopted a swarm technique. With this technique, we were able to send in a few surveyors from the operations team to go in and 3D laser scan the structure rapidly. The expected time 3D laser scanning on site was cut in half. This benefits everyone in the long run, notably the on-site contacts and the owner. The ultimate product delivery went off without a hitch.

Survey Control

Starting with a known set of control points can be beneficial to any surveyor. With survey control, many surveys can be linked to the work of others, even if that work has already occurred. Once the survey has been completed with the survey control, it can be imported and incorporated into other drawings with the same control point configuration. This enables collaborative teams to assess their work. Most importantly, they can make important design and construction decisions based on accurate data.

How Do Pre-Construction Surveys Benefit Architects?

A substantial amount of our work consists of pre-construction 3D laser scanning surveys. In a short length of time on site, we may gather a lot of useful information for the architect. Often, even today, architects would go out with photographs and sketch paper in the hopes of gathering pre-construction data. This would take days, if not weeks. It is difficult and time-consuming to go out with multiple cameras and attempt to reconstruct the surrounding architecture of the site. It will never be exact, which is why a 3D laser scan of your building is essential.

Because of our 3D laser scanning equipment and expertise, we can now capture more information in a single day or afternoon than the architect could capture in a month (or more). Accurate reality capture data is an excellent resource for architects, allowing them to concentrate on the work they wish to undertake.

How Will The As-Built Documents Be Used?

The as-built documents we provided for the New York historical Society will be used for both the current refurbishment of their building and the ongoing facility management. Employees at the New York Historical Society will not only gain immediate access to this vital material but will also be able to use it for years to come as their needs evolve over time.

The Benefits of BIM Models

Our BIM models are more than a set of static drawings. They can grow and adapt to a building over time. As a result, a BIM model can become an important property asset. The work we have done can benefit all of the project's stakeholders. It provides them with a detailed description of their most important asset. It is a computerized representation of a structure's physical and functional properties. This data is a common resource for making decisions about a facility, from creation until repositioning and rehabilitation.

The point clouds, as-built drawings, 3D BIM models, and drone imagery that we provide clients when they interact with Existing Conditions is theirs to keep. We provide them with accurate as-built data that they may use for several tasks. Some examples include renovations, accessibility for people with disabilities, public safety, and ongoing building maintenance. They can use this information for years without having to rescan their building.

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Existing Conditions 3D Laser Scanning Services

With 27 years of experience, Existing Conditions is renowned for accurate as-built drawings, existing condition surveys, 3D laser scanning, and drone imaging, supporting some of the most iconic projects in the United States. Now, as part of GPRS, the nation’s leader in Intelligently Visualizing the Built World^®, we can deliver additional services faster and with greater support. Wherever your project is located, trust the combined expertise of GPRS and Existing Conditions to deliver the data you need—quickly and reliably.

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