Courthouse energy evaluation: BIM and simulation model interoperability in concept design

This paper presents the development of an automated energy analysis for GSA and the results of a case study comparing two courthouse design options in the Preliminary Concept Design stage. The purpose of this study is to understand the issues around a BIM-driven concept design process that integrates building simulation for design evaluation.  The study is developed in two phases:  1) generating a Building Simulation Model (BSM) based on a Building Information Model (BIM); 2) conducting sensitivity analyses to evaluate variability when comparing two design options using building simulation.