TTF: Physical Models, Digital Minds

July 31, 2025

This weekly email is my curated selection of interesting and useful topics related to BIM, design, and technology. I aim to provide you with some good information and a few laughs along the way. So, what did I find interesting this week? Read down to find out!

The launchpad Ignite challenge is in full swing, and the enthusiasm is fantastic! Over 250 people are diving into their first C# and Revit API code, proving the desire for custom Revit tools is stronger than ever. If you've been sitting on the fence about learning to code, there's still time to join us. The energy in our community right now is electric – nothing beats seeing that first "Hello World" message pop up in Revit! Ready to take the plunge? Click here to join the challenge and start your coding journey.

Here are five interesting things to check out this week: 

#1: The Art Behind the Architecture

This insightful profile showcases the model maker behind the Chinese Pavilion at the Venice Biennale. The level of detail and craftsmanship is mind-blowing – we're talking about super-precise physical models that rival most BIM models. It's a reminder that even in our digital age, there's something magical about physical models that screens can't quite capture.

Click here to read the full article at Archinect.

#2: Speed Without Sacrificing Quality

I recently wrote about how to apply computational design practices to structural design. In the article, I explore practical ways structural teams can accelerate their design process while maintaining quality. There's also an accompanying podcast episode where I discuss the approach in more detail with real-world examples. If you're interested in exploring faster design workflows, give it a read (and a listen).

Click here to read the article and listen to the podcast at IMEG.

#3: Why BIM's Revolution is Long Overdue

Finally, someone said it! This thought-provoking piece argues that BIM has been stuck in neutral for too long, and it's time for a real revolution. The author makes a compelling case for why incremental improvements aren't enough anymore. While reading this, I found myself nodding and thinking, "Yes! This is exactly what we need." What do you think?

Click here to read the full article at Architizer.

#4: AI and Design Culture: Finding the Balance

Part two of AEC Magazine's deep dive into AI's impact on design culture is here, and it doesn't pull punches. The article explores how AI reshapes our tools and our design methodologies. What struck me most was the discussion about maintaining human creativity while leveraging AI's capabilities. It's not about replacement – it's about augmentation.

Click here to read the full article at AEC Magazine.

#5: Is Your Brain on Junk Food?

Scott Young strikes again with a brilliant analogy comparing our attention habits to junk food consumption. Just as processed foods hijack our taste buds, certain digital experiences hijack our attention spans. This hit home as someone who bounces between Revit, emails, and a dozen browser tabs. Young's practical tips for a healthier "attention diet" are worth implementing.

Click here to read the full article at Scott H. Young

That's all from me. I hope you're having a great week!

Michael