en.Wedoany.com Reported - The renovation of the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, from planning to execution, has fully adopted the Building Information Modeling (BIM) methodology, making it one of the most ambitious construction projects in Europe in recent years. Designed by L35 Architects in collaboration with GMP Architekten and Ribas & Ribas, this stadium, with an investment exceeding €1.3 billion, transforms a mid-20th-century venue into a multifunctional facility capable of hosting sports events, concerts, corporate events, and large-scale performances, all while maintaining the stadium's daily operations.
The project includes a retractable roof, a metal-clad exterior, a retractable turf system, a 360-degree panoramic video scoreboard, and extensive reconfiguration of commercial, dining, and hospitality spaces. With multiple specialized teams working simultaneously, information management has become critical. The BIM methodology runs throughout the project lifecycle, centralizing information and facilitating collaboration by constructing a digital twin model that integrates data on structure, facilities, construction planning, costs, and future maintenance operations. According to Borja Sánchez Ortega, Director of the Espacio BIM project and Director of the Master's in International BIM Manager (+Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality) program, this approach "is essential for coordinating different professionals and managing an extremely complex project without affecting the stadium's operations."
During the renovation phase, over a hundred specialized digital models worked in synergy, optimizing processes, improving decision-making, and reducing execution risks. Hendrik Hiddemann, BIM Project Manager and professional at L35 Architects, noted in an interview on Espacio BIM's AbiertoXObras program that "BIM not only helps coordinate the project but also resolves emerging issues; in the future, it will be a key tool for stadium management and maintenance."
In addition to BIM, the project employs parametric design, simulation, and automated analysis tools to study structural solutions and assess the behavior of complex elements such as the retractable roof and metal-clad exterior. Each metal slat forming the exterior is digitally designed, manufactured through high-precision automated processes, and installed according to specifications defined by the virtual model. Light and reflection simulations were also conducted to minimize visual impact on the surrounding environment. Artificial intelligence is used in the project for data analysis, process automation, and task planning coordination, rather than replacing the autonomous design functions of architects and engineers.
Digitalization is also evident in logistics planning. Maintaining stadium operations during construction requires precise coordination of access, supplies, and work areas. Digital tools simulate different execution scenarios to minimize disruptions to sports events and activities within the venue. The new Santiago Bernabéu Stadium thus becomes an international benchmark for digital construction, demonstrating the potential of BIM, parametric design, and advanced simulation in optimizing planning, improving coordination, and reducing risks in large-scale infrastructure projects.
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