In the heart of Embrach, a remarkable transformation took shape—one that shows how digital transformation in construction is no longer just a future ambition, but a practical reality. The Embraport Building B project stands as a powerful example of how integral digital planning, BIM management, and smart operational handover can come together to create lasting value across the entire building lifecycle.

Commissioned by Zürcher Freilager AG and backed by a construction volume of CHF 41 million, this ambitious project involved the renovation and expansion of an existing logistics building. But this was not simply a matter of rebuilding physical space. It was about rethinking how a complex building project could be planned, coordinated, delivered, and operated through a truly connected digital ecosystem.

From the very beginning, the vision was clear: to create high-quality storage spaces capable of meeting the strict requirements of customers with demanding storage needs. To make that possible, the project team relied on a forward-looking strategy built around Building Information Modeling (BIM) and long-term digital asset value.

The planning phase began in 2018, laying the groundwork for a highly coordinated process that would later move into execution in 2021. At the center of this transformation was Basler & Hofmann, appointed as the general planner and entrusted with developing an intelligent BIM model that would support not only the planning and construction stages, but also future building operations.

A key role in this success story was played by Gianluca Genova, who served as BIM Manager. His responsibility went far beyond coordination. He developed and implemented the BIM Execution Plan, defined the project’s data structures, and aligned all specialized disciplines within one common digital framework. This ensured that the project’s information flow remained structured, reliable, and usable from day one.

To support collaboration, the team used BIM360 as the Common Data Environment (CDE) during planning and construction. This created a centralized platform where project information could be managed efficiently and transparently. At the same time, regular quality assurance checks using BIM Collab Zoom Pro and Singular Qualifier helped maintain a consistently high level of model quality, reducing coordination issues and increasing confidence in the digital deliverables.

The Embraport Building B project is more than a renovation project. It is a compelling example of how digital transformation in the construction industry can succeed when technology, process, and people are aligned.

By combining integral BIM planning, strong BIM management, a structured BIM2FM handover, and an advanced AIM-CDE strategy, the project proves that digital methods are not just useful for design coordination—they are essential for creating smarter, more sustainable, and more operationally efficient buildings.

It shows how a building can evolve from a construction project into a data-driven asset, where information remains alive and valuable long after the construction phase ends.