+ What is BIM?

“Building Information Model” is the term used globally for creating a replica of structure in the digital building environment. BIM represents innovation and a major evolution in the construction industry and is being used worldwide commercially and in developing countries to build better, more efficient, and disaster-resistant structures. However, Build Happy is one of the first companies in the U.S. to bring this technology to the residential home market. Our founder and CEO Lindsay Prichard-Fox is a national advocate for BIM in her role as Northeastern U.S. Regional Lead for the international organization Women in BIM.

+ What is VDC vs. Digital Design + Construction?

Like most industries, the construction industry uses many acronyms. VDC stands for Virtual Design and Construction and is synonymous with Digital Construction and Design. We use this integrated process to produce the 3D Digital Model that generates 2D building documents, quantifies project material costs and creates realistic images and videos.

+ Is BIM an industry standard?

Globally BIM is an industry standard. The governments of many countries are mandating the use of BIM on projects. The U.S. will likely not have BIM be a government requirement, however the demonstrated benefits of using BIM is inspiring adoption amongst leading construction industry professionals across the country without the need for government regulation.

https://www.constructiondive.com/news/the-us-has-no-bim-mandate-does-it-matter/568362/

+ What are the benefits of working in a 3D environment?

The level of clarity the 3D environment provides the Homeowner and their project team is unparalleled. We are able to get the whole project team together in a 3D digital environment to strategize, troubleshoot, and solve problems that typically are not identified until field construction begins, and that is expensive. With better visuals and better information, the project runs more efficiently.

+ How much do your services cost?

Our starting point is $2 per square foot to build a digital model to a level of detail that provides maximum value to our clients. Each project is different, and each need is specific to each project so pricing may vary.

+ Do I have to use all your services?

No, we are able to provide our clients with the services needed to successfully plan and manage their project. Our services are intended to be customized to best fit your needs. If you would like a consultation with one of our digital design specialists, please contact us at (585) 623-3979.

+ How long does the design process take?

This is dependent on at what stage of the project we become involved. For example: some clients have 2D plan sheets and request the digital model be built from those. If you fall into this category, our turnaround time is approximately one week. Other clients have a home they want to renovate and no construction plans. To scan their home and build the digital model will take 2-3 weeks. Digital model development for new home construction can take upwards of 2-3 months. We progress at a pace that is comfortable for our clients, using the digital model to coordinate planning and support them through their decision-making process.

+ What types of clients and spaces can benefit from BuildHappy’s services?

Digital construction is able to provide value on most renovation and build projects. Our services have the most impact on projects that require extensive demolition and building, including: additions, renovations requiring some structural modifications and new home construction.

+ I’m a homeowner looking to renovate or build. Where should I start?

We are a great place to start because we are in the business of optimizing your planning dollars and can work with you to create a comprehensive design plan to help manage your project. Our founder and CEO Lindsay Prichard-Fox understands the position you are in firsthand. Having flipped and built several homes, she has experienced challenges and gaps in the traditional construction process and created this company to make it a better and more enjoyable process. When you decide to work with BuildHappy, what you are getting is a true partner who wants to help you achieve your vision in the best possible way, while maximizing your satisfaction and minimizing waste. We like to say that we are first in and last out on the jobs we are a part of because we support you throughout the entire process.

+ Why do you use Autodesk Revit software?

Autodesk Revit is powerful and the capabilities are extensive. Plus, it’s customizable. Building in Revit provides all of the information necessary to build your project using one platform. This removes inconsistency between the design phase of your project and field construction of your project. Revit is used to create and manage huge commercial projects, airports, hospitals, and high-rises. We build homes, and we can customize the capabilities within the software to suit our client’s needs and provide data using the Revit platform.

+ Do you do your own 3D laser scanning?

Yes. Our entire team is highly trained in this discipline, as the quality and benefit 3D laser scanning can provide is largely dependent on the laser scanning operator. The method used to scan impacts the quality of the digital model the scan is used to create. The information obtained through the 3D laser scanning process is incredibly valuable to the success of a project.

+ Can you use BIM technology to help design more difficult or older, historical spaces?

Yes, with the aid of laser scanning to document historically significant structures, digital models of those structures are beginning “built” in Autodesk Revit software. Prior to the devastating fire, Notre Dame was scanned and that scan data was used to inform the digital construction of Notre Dame in BIM. We work on historic homes and use the scan data to aid our Homeowners in consulting with their local historic review process.

+ If I already have an architect or builder, can you still help me?

Yes, we add value at all stages of project development and are happy to collaborate with any discipline on your project team. However, should you need us to connect you to other service providers, we have an extensive network of industry professionals we work with and trust.

+ Can you help me manage my bid process?

Yes, and we are happy to do it! The bid administration process can be complicated and challenging —gathering bids and comparing quotes. Fortunately, the information generated from the digital model is provided to your project team and ensures you will have comprehensive proposals from potential builders. Since they will all have access to the same information, your quotes should be more objective and more of an apples-to-apples comparison.

+ Can you connect me with local material suppliers?

We have great relationships with local material suppliers in the Upstate New York area and take great pride in providing material consultations to our clients. We aim for longevity in the materials that are being selected, that means we thoughtfully balance quality and value.

+ How do you ensure that my project stays on time and on budget?

We add clarity to the planning and development process. Owner indecision is the leading cause of project delays and change orders. With better visuals generated from the digital model, our clients are more informed and as a result are more decisive. If you can see what you want, then you can decide that you want it and are minimizing the risk for rework and delays in the project.

+ Are you able to supply 2D prints?

Yes, our 3D digital modeling system also provides 2D prints that are necessary for permitting. These prints can be taken to an architect or structural engineer for redlining and stamping. All this information—including material selection quantities and costs, plus amazing photorealistic visuals, and virtual reality tours—are all generated in a single system. That means the information is in sync and consistent no matter the project view.

+ Are you able to provide me with stamped, approved prints for my builder?

The way we support our clients in this process is by submitting our 2D prints to a partner architectural firm for review and stamp.