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Level of Detail (LOD)

What is Level of Detail?

'Level of Detail', also known as LOD, can be defined as the amount, or degree, of building information that is required in a BIM Model.

There are four different levels of details, from LOD1 to LOD4. The level of detail required depends on the specifications of the project.

How we capture Level of Detail?

LOD is captured using 3D laser scanning, with the data collected in the form of Point Clouds.

Point Clouds are used to create BIM models necessary to the level required. If more detail is required later in the project Point Clouds can be revisited and further information extracted.
 

Benefit of Using Level of Detail

Using Level of Detail helps to define the detail required for a specific project.

Without LOD, there is an increased risk of a project not having sufficient detail, or perhaps showing too much information, resulting in wasted time and resource in order to make corrections

LOD 1

Outline Overall Mass Model

  

The Building Model at this stage is a Block Model.

 

LOD1 Models can be used for creating Topographic and Site Plans.

  

Redbridge Town Hall in Ilford, London. 3D Building Model to Level of Detail 1 (LOD 1). Block Building Model. LOD1 is usually used for Topographic and Site Plans.
University College, Oxford. 3D Building Model to Level of Detail 1 (LOD 1). Block Building Model. LOD1 is usually used for Topographic and Site Plans.

LOD 2

Shell & Core Model

  

The Building Model is developed to a basic level and contains major structural elements and openings.

 

No architectural detailing, furnishing or services will be modelled at this stage.

 

The model can be used for lease and location plans as area, height and location orientations are defined.

 

Equivalent RIBA Stage 2

Redbridge Town Hall in Ilford, London. 3D Building Model to Level of Detail 2 (LOD 2). Shell and Core Building Model. LOD2 can be used for Lease and Location Plans.
University College, Oxford. 3D Building Model to Level of Detail 2 (LOD 2). Shell and Core Building Model. LOD2 can be used for Lease and Location Plans.

LOD 3

Standard Survey Model

  

The Building Model at this stage includes primary architectural features and details.

Revit families for doors and windows can be produced, whilst major services can be modelled in outline form.

 

This model can be used for floor plans, elevations, and sections at traditional scales of 1:50 & 1:100.

 

Equivalent RIBA Stage 3

Redbridge Town Hall in Ilford, London. 3D Building Model to Level of Detail 3 (LOD 3). Standard Measured Survey Model. LOD3 can be used for floor plans, elevations and sections.
University College, Oxford. 3D Building Model to Level of Detail 3 (LOD 3). Standard Measured Survey Model. LOD3 can be used for floor plans, elevations and sections.

LOD 4

Detailed Survey Model

  

The Building Model at this stage has additional architectural detail and structural elements added, such as skirting, handrails, cornicing, etc.

 

Higher levels of detail in Revit families are also included.

 

This model can be used for internal elevations, detailed ceiling and floor plans. This model can also to used to create a 3D visualise of the project.

 

Equivalent RIBA Stage 4

Redbridge Town Hall in Ilford, London. 3D Building Model to Level of Detail 4 (LOD 4). Detailed Measured Survey Model. LOD4 can be used for internal elevations, detailed ceiling and floor plans. It can also be used to create 3D Visualisations and Virtual Reality Models
University College, Oxford. 3D Building Model to Level of Detail 4 (LOD 4). Detailed Measured Survey Model. LOD4 can be used for internal elevations, detailed ceiling and floor plans. It can also be used to create 3D Visualisations and Virtual Reality Models

Which LOD is best suited to your needs?
Please don't hesitate to contact us!

We are more than happy to discuss your requirements and advise on the best option for your project.

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