‘Project Saturn’ (UK) = BIM CASE STUDY==
Location: Kilmalid, Dumbarton (UK)
Client: Chivas Brothers
Value: £50 million
Duration: 2017 - 2018
Role: Task Team Information & INTERFACE Manager, Information Author
Responsibility: BIM model & WOrkflows setup, MEP BIM modelling, BIM coordination
Challenges
- Coordinating a highly complex roof structure, HVAC systems, and bottling equipment within a single space.
- Maximising vertical space for large, heavy-duty machinery while ensuring safe and easy maintenance access for better facilities management.
- Preventing spatial conflicts between structural and MEP components in a fast-paced design environment.
Solutions
- Delivered a fully coordinated MEP BIM model at RIBA Stage 2, enabling early clash detection and resolving issues before design & construction.
- Led multidisciplinary coordination workshops with structural and architectural teams to refine layouts and ensure buildability.
- Used strategic zoning and vertical planning to optimise equipment placement and maintain clear maintenance routes.
End Result
Achieved full spatial coordination between MEP systems and structural elements, eliminating costly rework on-site.
Delivered a lean and efficient BIM Model with layouts that met operational needs and maximised available space.
Successfully met Chivas Brothers' Exchange Information Requirements (EIR), ensuring smooth project handover.
Strengthened client trust with consistent visualisations and weekly BIM updates, improving stakeholder engagement.
Key Takeaways
This project highlights how early stage BIM coordination can significantly reduce risks, rework & costly delays on technically complex industrial projects. By delivering a fully coordinated MEP BIM model at RIBA Stage 2, we identified and resolved spatial conflicts before construction & even detailed design began, protecting the project’s programme & Client’s budget.
Through lean workflows, strategic zoning & precise vertical planning, we maximised operational space for heavy duty machinery while ensuring safe, accessible maintenance routes for long-term facilities management of Chivas Brothers’ estate.
The structured BIM approach not only met Chivas Brothers’ strict Exchange Information Requirements (EIR), but also built lasting client trust through consistent visualisations and regular BIM updates, keeping stakeholders informed, aligned & very confident at every stage.