In the high-stakes world of data center construction, there’s no room for error. A single
misaligned utility can cascade into network downtime, costly rework, and delayed
operations that impact critical digital infrastructure. When a leading engineering firm
approached BSPK for a mission-critical data center project in Virginia, they needed
more than just modeling—they needed a partner who could transform complex 2D
utility designs into a fully coordinated 3D reality.

The Challenge: Mission-Critical Coordination at Scale

The Virginia data center represents the complexity that defines modern data center
construction: a massive 185,000 square foot, 3-story Type 1A facility housing everything
from server rooms and network operations centers to offices, cafeteria, and loading
docks. But beneath this seemingly straightforward description lies an intricate web of
utility systems that must work in perfect harmony.

The project demanded LOD350 modeling—a level of detail that goes far beyond basic
geometry to include intelligent, data-rich components with precise dimensions,
locations, and connections. Every storm sewer pipe, sanitary line, electrical conduit,
telecommunications pathway, and fire protection system needed to be modeled with
surgical precision and coordinated across multiple trades.

BSPK’s Approach: From 2D Chaos to 3D Clarity

BSPK’s team, consisting of one BIM Project Manager, one BIM Coordinator, and four
specialized BIM Modelers, approached this challenge with the systematic precision
that mission-critical projects demand. Using Revit as the primary modeling platform,
integrated with Navisworks Manage for clash detection and Autodesk Construction
Cloud for seamless collaboration, the team began the complex process of translating
2D utility designs into intelligent 3D models.

The transformation wasn’t simply about converting lines on paper into 3D objects. Each
utility component was modeled as an intelligent element containing crucial information
about materials, specifications, connections, and maintenance requirements. The final
coordinated model contained over 12,500 intelligent utility components, each
embedded with data that would support both installation and long-term facility
operations.

Storm sewer systems were mapped with precise inverts and slopes, electrical power
distribution was modeled with accurate conduit runs and panel connections, and fire
protection systems included detailed sprinkler layouts and valve locations.

But the real value emerged in the coordination phase. With all utility systems existing in
the same 3D environment, BSPK’s team could identify potential conflicts before they
became construction headaches. Telecommunications conduits that might interfere
with fire protection mains, electrical panels that could clash with sanitary sewer runs,
storm drainage that might conflict with foundation elements—all of these potential
issues were identified, analyzed, and resolved in the digital realm.

The Power of Proactive Clash Detection

In data center construction, clash detection isn’t just about avoiding rework costs—it’s
about ensuring the reliability of systems that keep the digital world running. BSPK’s
approach to clash detection went beyond simple geometric interference. The team
analyzed clearance requirements for maintenance access, verified code compliance
for utility separations, and ensured that emergency systems maintained required
accessibility.

Over the course of coordination, we identified and resolved 5,200+ clashes before a
single shovel hit the ground. Our systematic approach detected 83% of critical clashes
in the first coordination cycle, significantly reducing iteration rounds and accelerating
the path to a clash-free model. This proactive detection eliminated potential delays that
could have cost weeks of schedule time and hundreds of thousands in rework costs.

Using Navisworks Manage, the team conducted systematic clash detection runs,
categorizing conflicts by severity and trade responsibility. Each identified clash was
documented with clear visual references and coordinated solutions, creating a
roadmap for field installation that eliminated surprises during construction.

What We Learned: Insights from 185,000 SF of
Coordination

Early coordination of underground utilities with foundation elements proved critical. By
prioritizing these intersections in our first detection cycles, we prevented 40+ major
conflicts that typically surface during excavation—the most expensive phase to
address utility clashes.

Our deployment of NavisLink automation reduced clash detection processing time by
40%, allowing our team to run more frequent coordination cycles. This meant faster
turnaround on design iterations and more time allocated to solving complex
coordination scenarios rather than running reports.

We also discovered that telecommunications pathway coordination required earlier
engagement than typical projects. Modern data centers demand high-density cabling
with strict separation from power systems to prevent electromagnetic interference. By
modeling these pathways at LOD350 from the outset, we avoided late-stage rerouting
that would have impacted critical installation sequences

Integration Across Trades: The Collaborative
Advantage

One of the most complex aspects of the Virginia data center project was ensuring
seamless integration with other building trades. Data centers require precise
coordination between structural, architectural, mechanical, electrical, and specialty
systems. BSPK’s utility models needed to integrate flawlessly with structural framing,
HVAC ductwork, cable tray systems, and architectural elements.

Through Autodesk Construction Cloud, BSPK maintained real-time coordination with
other project stakeholders. Model updates were synchronized across teams, ensuring
that changes in one system were immediately reflected in coordination models. This
collaborative approach prevented the isolated decision-making that often leads to field
conflicts in complex projects

Beyond Modeling: Supporting Constructibility

LOD350 modeling for mission-critical facilities extends far beyond creating accurate 3D
representations. BSPK’s models became construction tools, supporting field teams
with detailed installation sequences, material takeoffs, and maintenance planning
information. The intelligent nature of the models meant that changes during
construction could be quickly assessed for their impact on other systems.

For the electrical power systems, this meant detailed conduit routing that considered
both installation efficiency and future expansion capabilities. Telecommunications
pathways were modeled to support the high-density cabling requirements of modern
data centers while maintaining separation from power systems to prevent
electromagnetic interference.

Fire protection systems received particular attention, with models including not just
pipe routing but also detailed information about sprinkler head types, valve locations,
and system zones. This level of detail supported both installation crews and future
facility operators who would need to maintain and modify these critical safety systems.

Results: Risk Mitigation Through Digital Precision

The Virginia data center project demonstrates how LOD350 modeling transforms highrisk utility coordination into a controlled, predictable process. By identifying and
resolving conflicts in the digital environment, BSPK helped ensure that field installation
could proceed with confidence.

By front-loading coordination efforts, we helped the client avoid an estimated 3-4
weeks of potential rework delays—critical time savings in a project where every day of
delayed operation represents significant lost revenue. The fully coordinated utility
network reduced the risk of costly delays and supported the reliable operation that
mission-critical facilities demand.

The intelligent 3D models created for the project continue to provide value beyond
construction, serving as accurate as-built documentation for facility operations and
future modifications. When network expansions or system upgrades are needed,
facility managers have access to precise, data-rich models that support informed
decision-making

The BSPK Difference: We Know BIM Better

The Virginia data center project exemplifies BSPK’s expertise in BIM and VDC
coordination for mission-critical environments. Our team understands that data center
construction demands more than standard modeling practices—it requires deep
knowledge of utility coordination, clash detection methodologies, and the
constructibility challenges unique to these facilities.

At BSPK, we deliver clash-free workflows and fully coordinated models that support
efficiency in mission-critical environments. We don’t make promises outside our
proven capabilities, and we don’t rely on theoretical examples. Every project showcase
represents real work delivered by our expert team using industry-leading tools and
methodologies.

In an industry where precision isn’t just preferred but essential, BSPK provides the
expertise and reliability that mission-critical projects demand. Because when the
digital world depends on your infrastructure, there’s no substitute for getting it right the
first time