16 Oct 2025

Breaking BIM: Why It's Still Slow and How We Fix It 

Episode summary:

Digital transformation in the built environment is often synonymous with complexity, slow adoption, and misaligned expectations. But what happens when an architect breaks the mould and embraces innovation from the ground up? In this episode of Deconstructing Digital, we're joined by Pierre Saunal - architect and co-founder, of airc.digital - to unpack the practical, painful, and powerful journey of digitalising Building Information Modelling (BIM). Drawing on years of hands-on experience across design and delivery, Pierre shares what he’s learned about improving workflows, simplifying scan-to-BIM processes, and turning raw site data into structured, usable information. This conversation offers clarity, challenge, and a fresh perspective on what BIM can be when it works.

Listen now:
Guest:
Pierre Saunal - Deconstructing Digital - Breaking BIM
Pierre Saunal
Co-Founder at airc.digital

Expect a candid and thought-provoking conversation that spans architecture, automation, collaboration, and the realities of digital delivery. Pierre shares why he stepped away from traditional practice to tackle persistent challenges in BIM - from messy point clouds to disconnected workflows - and what he’s learned about making digital tools more usable, scalable, and fit for purpose. The discussion offers practical ideas for anyone facing scan-to-BIM bottlenecks, grappling with data quality issues, or working to embed digital adoption in real project environments.

Topics covered:

  • BIM that works (and where it doesn’t) – why common modelling workflows break down on-site, and what’s needed to fix them.
  • Structured data over shiny models – how clear, usable information drives better decisions across the asset lifecycle.
  • The case for lean modelling – why 'just enough' data can be more powerful than overbuilt geometry.
  • Open standards, real impact – how IFC and openBIM support collaboration, longevity, and digital confidence.
  • Bridging the gap between design and delivery – practical steps to align scan-to-BIM with real-world construction needs


For BIM to be truly effective, it needs to serve the realities of project delivery, not just design intent. This episode takes a clear-eyed look at what usable, efficient, and purpose-driven modelling really requires. Grounded in experience and shaped by practice, it’s a must-listen for anyone working to make digital delivery simpler, smarter, and more aligned with how teams actually build.

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