Flexibility
Early concepts need broad overviews, while construction may demand intricate detail.
What’s the ideal Level of Detail for architects when modelling a project?
Architect demand for accurate, reliable and meaningful data to underpin virtual models and digital twins is greater than ever.
But one challenge persists: How do we make this vast scanning data usable?
What are Levels of Detail (LOD)?
Point cloud files can reach tens of gigabytes, representing millions of 3D points. Transforming this raw data into actionable models in Revit or AutoCAD requires careful decision-making. What details should the model include, and what can be omitted?
This is where the Level of Detail (LOD) comes in.
By providing a clear framework, LOD helps architects and surveyors align on what’s essential in a deliverable. While global standards for LOD vary, the concept universally moves from basic to highly detailed representations.
Why do we use LOD?
LOD balances accuracy, usability and cost-effectiveness. A highly detailed model isn’t always necessary – and can even hinder workflows when not required.
Efficiency
More detail takes time and money, so allocating resources wisely is crucial.
Collaboration
Different teams need different information. LOD helps manage these diverse requirements.
Understanding LOD
Our understanding of LOD categories at Landair are:
LOD300 – Detailed
What’s included:
- External façades with structural elements – like detailed windows, doors and wall elements.
- Internal layouts with accurate dimensions.
- Simplified services with key connection points.
- Real-world surface colouring.
What’s excluded:
- Minor fixtures
- Electrical equipment and wires
- Non-structural details, like switches or signs
LOD400 – Highly-detailed
What’s included:
- Precise representations of external and internal features,
- Fixtures such as switches, signs and light fittings.
- Structural elements and detailed services.
- High-fidelity colouring and textures.
What’s excluded:
- Nuts and bolts
- Non-permanent items like loose furniture or flexible ducts and piping
Choosing the right LOD for your requirements
Selecting the appropriate LOD is about aligning the model’s detail with the stage and purpose of your project:
Early planning
If you’re exploring initial layouts or concepts, LOD100 or LOD200 offers cost-effective information to guide decision-making.
Design coordination
For construction or cross-discipline collaboration, LOD300 provides the detail needed for accurate planning.
Detailed projects
When precision is key – such as in heritage restorations or for as-built records – LOD400 ensures every element is captured.
By tailoring the LOD to your needs, you avoid unnecessary costs while keeping your model functional and effective. To ensure your surveying and modelling partners know what to provide you:
Define goals early
Clarify what you need. Are you visualising for clients, coordinating with engineers or documenting for contractors?
Communicate clearly
Share your expectations with your surveyors and modellers partners to avoid under- or over-modelling.
Strike the right balance
Remember that too much detail can slow down workflows, while too little can cause gaps in design or construction.
LOD is about delivering the right detail for the task at hand – making your 3D scanning data useful to serve its purpose at every stage of your process.
Talk to the team
To discuss the laser scanning and modelling that will work best for your goals.