MM / XIV
Miguel Ángel Morales Aguilar
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The models showcased on this site were created by me but are the property of Daho Arquitectos S.C. and Juan Pablo Herrera. The information presented on this site is solely intended to demonstrate my experience with the BIM methodology during my involvement in the SKY Santa Fe residential project. All materials were created specifically for the portfolio and are not derived from official documentation used on-site.
SKY Santa Fe is a residential complex developed by Grupo COPRI in the northwest area of Mexico City. The main proposal & executive project was designed by Estudio MMX, and the coordination and BIM management were conducted by the firm DAHO Arquitectos S.C., where I made my primary contributions from autumn 2019 to summer 2023.
My involvement was focused on the first phase of the development, which included a residential tower with a main access point on the Mex-Tol Highway, as well as a vehicular communication tower with a connection to Vasco de Quiroga Avenue.
At the outset of my involvement in the project, my tasks primarily revolved around creating LOD 300 – LOD 350 models across Architecture, MEP, and Structural categories. The information embedded within these modeled elements was subsequently directly used in the construction process. During the coordination phase, reinforcement steel quantifications were conducted for the towers to compare against the general contractor, along with interference analyses among the aforementioned categories.
Residential Building: "TOB"
The TOB is a residential building within Phase 1 of the SKY Santa Fe complex, comprising 96 units across 22 above-ground levels and 8 underground basements. Construction of the building commenced in early 2019, with completion initially scheduled for the end of 2022. However, due to the impact of the pandemic, completion was postponed until 2023.
The models developed for this tower included the categories of Architecture, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing), and Structural. The client requested a comprehensive analysis to obtain accurate material quantifications with minimal margin of error, as well as identification of potential construction stage issues. The residential levels are structured into three typical floors, along with a Townhouse level and a Penthouse level. Machine rooms are situated in the first basements, playing a crucial role in the interference analysis exercise.
Structure
The structural design of the TOB incorporates a deep foundation with six reinforced concrete piles descending from a series of large-scale footings to provide essential support for the building's weight. Throughout 90% of the tower, a system of reinforced concrete frames, reinforced by load-bearing walls, enhances architectural spaces. The remaining 10% adopts a hybrid system, utilized in the Townhouse and Penthouse levels, to accommodate varying heights with reduced beam sections. Here, a series of steel profiles assists in supporting the intermediary levels of these structures.
BIM models were carefully crafted to capture the complete volumes of concrete and reinforcing steel within the tower. This undertaking needed the modeling of 100% of the reinforcing rebar stipulated by the structural project.
MEP Arrangement & Clash Detection
The meticulous attention to detail in the BIM models addressing hydraulic, electrical, natural gas, fire protection, and voice & data services facilitated accurate space planning, including height and trajectory considerations. This comprehensive approach effectively prevented collisions during the construction process, mitigating potential delays.
The most intricate levels were those combining all available services for maintenance and regulation. However, thanks to employing a LOD 350 model and meticulous planning, the contractor possessed all requisite information readily accessible during the installation phase.
Integral Apporach
The use of high-fidelity models not only enabled precise coordination of information among key stakeholders but also enhanced comprehension. These models were showcased both on-site and in remote meetings, ensuring clarity and addressing any potential uncertainties at any stage of the process.
In instances where issues arose or modifications were necessary within the project, the adaptable nature of the models facilitated seamless adjustments, ultimately contributing to the delivery of a high-quality final product.
Assembled 350 LOD model
Detached components for Penthouse model
TOB in Phase 1 render
Vehicular Communication Building: "Helicoidal"
The vehicular communication tower, known as "Helicoidal," is a reinforced concrete structure designed primarily to provide access to residents from Vasco de Quiroga Avenue, located to the south of the property. Additionally, the tower features several secondary functions, including two levels dedicated to amenities and recreation, as well as a level designated for a machine room and sanitary waste storage, which is connected to municipal pipes. The building consists of 16 levels from its foundation, utilizing a structural system of radially arranged walls and a series of curved beams that facilitate the organic movement of the ramp throughout most of the project.
Structure
The models developed for this stage of the project focused on the reinforced concrete structure, addressing the challenge posed by the unique shape of the project, which disrupts the horizontality of the slabs and girders. The model included the detailed creation of all the reinforcing steel that the tower would require, facilitating analysis with the general contractor. For the beams, "Swept Blends" were employed to achieve the final shape of the ramp, allowing for the accurate placement of steel rods within these elements.
Due to the high level of detail required, all models were handled at a minimum Level of Detail (LOD) 350, given the low margin of error allowed for procuring such large volumes of reinforcing steel.
Structural Walls & Beam Rebar Interaction
