Barba Architectural Design
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Project: Barba Architectural Design partnered with Existing Conditions to integrate 3D laser scanning into three high-end residential renovation projects across Long Island and the Hamptons.
Scope: The firm used 3D laser scanning to capture precise as-built conditions for homes ranging from 5,500 to 11,000 sq. ft., enabling the creation of detailed BIM models and floor plans.
- The Wildwood Lane Residence in Quogue, NY, an 11,000 sq. ft. home, was 3D laser scanned in one day, with the 3D model delivered in two weeks, significantly faster than the traditional 6–7-week timeline.
- Dune Road Residence in Westhampton Beach, NY was completed from design to construction in 9 months, an aggressive timeline made possible by rapid documentation and 3D modeling.
- The Cedar Lane Residence in Remsenburg, NY, a 5,500 sq. ft., two-level home, was scanned to produce detailed floor plans and reflected ceiling plans (RCPs) in Revit, including attic ceiling data to estimate floor joist thickness.
Challenge: Manual site documentation was slow, labor-intensive, and prone to delays, limiting the firm’s ability to multitask and meet aggressive project timelines.
Impact: By adopting 3D laser scanning, Barba Architectural Design significantly reduced turnaround times, improved design accuracy, and increased project capacity without sacrificing quality.
Testimonial: “We have completed three home renovation projects, and every single one is a raving success in my eyes. Every project that I do now starts with a 3D laser scan from Existing Conditions.” — Bill Barba, Principal Architect
Case Study: Barba Architectural Design
Accelerating High-End Residential Design with 3D Laser Scanning
“We have completed three home renovation projects, and every single one is a raving success in my eyes. Every project that I do now starts with a 3D laser scan from Existing Conditions.” — Bill Barba, Principal Architect
Project Overview
Barba Architectural Design accelerated its high-end residential renovations by partnering with Existing Conditions. 3D laser scanning led to quicker turnarounds, better accuracy, and improved design efficiency for several waterfront projects.
Led by Founder and Principal Architect Bill Barba, the firm specializes in bespoke renovations and new construction across Long Island and the Hamptons. In addition to New York, the firm holds licenses in multiple other states. They create custom designs that reflect each client's vision while seamlessly blending aesthetics and functionality.
Barba Architectural Design used 3D laser scanning in three residential renovation projects. This streamlined and accelerated design, resulting in highly accurate as-builts and a transformative impact on their workflow.
The Challenge: Traditional Methods
Before using 3D laser scanning, the firm documented sites with manual field measurements using graph paper, tape measures, laser tools, and hand-drawn sketches. This process was:
- Time-consuming: 2–3 days for field measurements, followed by 2–3 weeks to develop a usable 3D model
- Labor-intensive: Required multiple site visits and manual interpretation of photographs and sketches
- Prone to delays: Slowed down concurrent projects and limited the ability to multitask
The Solution: 3D Laser Scanning Integration
After attending the AIA Conference in Washington, D.C., Barba Architectural Design started looking into 3D laser scanning. This service would help them capture as-built site conditions more accurately and efficiently for their residential projects. Through online search, they discovered Existing Conditions, a reputable and locally based firm that stood out for its experience and reliability.
Barba Architectural Design partnered with Existing Conditions for 3D laser scanning on three high-end residential projects:
- The Wildwood Lane Residence in Quogue, NY, an 11,000 sq. ft. home, was 3D laser scanned in one day, with the 3D model delivered in two weeks, significantly faster than the traditional 6–7-week timeline.
- Dune Road Residence in Westhampton Beach, NY was completed from design to construction in 9 months, an aggressive timeline made possible by rapid documentation and 3D modeling.
- The Cedar Lane Residence in Remsenburg, NY, a 5,500 sq. ft., two-level home, was scanned to produce detailed floor plans and reflected ceiling plans (RCPs) in Revit, including attic ceiling data to estimate floor joist thickness.
The Benefits: Streamlined Process
Bill Barba emphasized that the true cost benefit of using 3D laser scanning lies in the ability for his firm to efficiently multitask across multiple projects. By partnering with Existing Conditions, Barba Architectural Design received reliable data quickly, allowing the firm to shift focus from time-consuming measurements to the creative and technical aspects of design. This streamlined process enabled Barba Architectural Design to take on more work without compromising quality or attention to detail.
The additional benefits of 3D laser scanning for the architectural firm were:
Speed & Efficiency:
- 3D laser scanning captured precise site data in hours instead of days, enabling faster modeling, fewer site visits, and quicker design turnaround
Accuracy & Detail:
- LiDAR-generated point clouds documented structural elements like drop beams, headers, and trim locations
- Virtual site visits reduced the need for physical return trips
Cost-Effectiveness:
- While 3D laser scanning costs vary by project scope, they were extremely reasonable given the time saved and the quality of deliverables
- Scanning eliminated the need for extensive manual labor and reduced errors in documentation
Enhanced Design & Presentation:
- Fully developed renderings and color-reflective ceiling plans (RCPs) improved client presentations and contractor coordination
- BIM models supported design planning, bidding, budgets, and schedules
Regulatory & Coastal Compliance:
- For waterfront properties, accurate documentation expedited permitting with coastal commissions
Existing Conditions 3D Laser Scanning Services
Over the past 27 years, Existing Conditions has measured, documented, and modeled over 10,000 buildings across the United States, establishing ourselves as an industry leader in 3D laser scanning.
Architects trust us to deliver digital representations of the as-built environment with unparalleled accuracy and efficiency. Our dedicated Project Managers provide fast and accurate 3D laser scanning services and drone imagery services, and expert CAD and BIM technicians create custom, detailed deliverables, including point clouds, 2D CAD drawings, 3D BIM models, 3D mesh models, TruViews, and 3D virtual tours.
Our greatest reward remains delivering superior-quality scan-to-BIM work and knowing we played a vital role in our clients’ historical architecture and preservation projects.
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